The hit Netflix series Sakamoto Days features assassins with all sorts of quirks and personalities, with Taro Sakamoto being one of the strongest. In episode 3, viewers are introduced to Yoichi Nagumo, another formidable character who happens to be a fan favorite.
Let’s take a closer look at Nagumo and what makes him such a well-liked hitman in the series!
Who is Yoichi Nagumo in Sakamoto Days?
Yoichi Nagumo makes his first appearance in Sakamoto Days episode 3, titled “Welcome to Sugar Park!”
This episode shows the Sakamoto family enjoying their time at Sugar Park, a massive amusement park with a bunny mascot that hilariously resembles the protagonist. Tagging along with Taro Sakamoto are his loyal subordinates, Shin Asakura and Lu Shaotang.
But before they arrive, the employees at Sakamoto’s store encounter a strange man named Yoichi Nagumo, who introduces himself in a way that makes him a fan favorite.
At first, audiences won’t even notice he’s there. That’s because he disguises himself as Taro Sakamoto, sitting in the usual spot behind the store’s cash register.
A clear sign that something is off is when Shin and Lu realize he isn’t acting like himself, suddenly turning into a chatterbox.
That’s right — Yoichi Nagumo has the convenient ability to change his appearance. But disguises aren’t the only thing he’s good at, since he also has a knack for lying when questioned.
Sakamoto later reveals that Nagumo is an assassin who started in the field at the same time as him. Plus, he casually mentions that he’s 27, just like Sakamoto.
With a smile, he warns Sakamoto that there’s now a 1 billion yen bounty on his head, acting like an insider as he explains that the Japanese Association of Assassins (JAA) will officially announce the news in the Mafia world the next day.
At this point in the series, Nagumo remains a mysterious figure. His relaxed demeanor makes him seem harmless, but his effortless takedown of "Pizza Nakajima" proves just how dangerous he can be. Still, it’s unclear in Episode 3 whether he’s an ally or a threat to Sakamoto.
Is Nagumo on Sakamoto’s Side?
Just after Nagumo says goodbye in Episode 3, Shin immediately questions whether Nagumo is on Sakamoto’s side.
Given his unique abilities and knack for lying, Nagumo gives off the impression that he’s not entirely trustworthy. However, the fact that he goes out of his way to warn Sakamoto that he’s being hunted suggests that he still has Sakamoto’s back, even years after his retirement.
Manga readers already know that Nagumo is actually a member of the Order during this time in the anime. The Order is a secretive group within the JAA made up of Japan's top hitmen.
Nagumo, Sakamoto, and another assassin named Rion Akao all studied together at Japan Clear Creation (JCC), a prestigious academy where aspiring assassins train to become the best in the country.
Taro and Nagumo’s history runs deep, so it seems unlikely that the shape-shifter would betray his friend, even if their ideals and motivations don’t align. As the story unfolds, viewers will see more of his impressive fighting style, which makes him nearly on par with the legendary hitman, Sakamoto.
Is Yoichi Nagumo your favorite assassin in Sakamoto Days? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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