Kurama From Naruto Was Inspired By This Yu Yu Hakusho Character

If you’re a Naruto fan, then you already know Kurama - the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed inside Naruto. He’s strong, scary, and later becomes one of Naruto’s closest friends. But there’s something really cool most fans don’t know - Kurama wasn’t fully an original idea. His name and character were inspired by another anime from the '90s.

That anime is Yu Yu Hakusho, and it also had a character named Kurama. But this Kurama was very different, or maybe not so different once you look closer. Let’s talk about how this older character became an inspiration for Kurama, one of the most powerful tailed beasts in anime.

Don't forget to check out our YouTube Short and get more insight about Kurama's inspiration in Naruto.

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The First Kurama Came From Yu Yu Hakusho

In Yu Yu Hakusho, Kurama is a smart and calm character. He’s actually a powerful fox demon who was reborn into a human body. Even though he looks like a normal boy, he hides a lot of power and a dangerous past. What made him special was how gentle and kind he was, even though he had the strength to destroy anyone.

This mix of calm and power made fans love him. And clearly, it inspired Naruto’s creator, Masashi Kishimoto. The idea of a powerful fox spirit that has a softer side is something both versions of Kurama share.

Naruto’s Kurama Was A Tribute With A Twist

In Naruto, Kurama is also a fox demon, and at first, he’s full of anger and hate. People trembled at just hearing his name, which ultimately filled him with detest against almost everyone. But slowly, through Naruto’s kindness, he begins to trust again. Over time, they build a strong bond, and Kurama becomes one of Naruto’s greatest allies.

The name Kurama itself comes from Japanese folklore and is often linked to fox spirits. It’s no accident Kishimoto used it. It’s a quiet nod to the character from Yu Yu Hakusho, showing how anime creators often get inspired by past shows they love.

Release Year	MAL Rating	Animation Studio	Genre	Watch On
October 2002	8.01	Pierrot	Action, Adventure	Netflix

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