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In Sakamoto Days, the old appearance of the main protagonist, Taro Sakamoto leaves fans questioning why does Sakamoto look so old? Is it Sakamoto’s lifestyle, his past, or something else? He is a retired 27-year-old assassin who now runs a convenience store and lives a peaceful life with his family. Let’s dive into the possible reasons behind Sakamoto’s older appearance.
Related: Sakamoto Days Episode 1 Review: Fans’ Reactions and Analysis
Who Is Taro Sakamoto?

Sakamoto was a legendary hitman, known for his incredible skills and fearsome reputation. Everyone in the underworld respected and feared him. However, Sakamoto’s life took a dramatic turn when he met Aoi, the woman who would become the love of his life. Wanting to create a peaceful future, Sakamoto decided to retire, leaving his violent past behind.This decision solidified when Aoi gave birth to their daughter, Hana.
After retiring, Sakamoto opened a small convenience store to support his family. He became a loving husband and father, focusing on a quiet life. Although he left the world of hitmen, Sakamoto’s past often comes back to challenge him. Despite this, he always finds a way to protect his family and friends.
Why Does Sakamoto Look So Old? 5 Possible Reasons
1- Sakamoto’s Life Before Retirement

Before settling down, Sakamoto was one of the deadliest assassins in the world. His job required constant physical effort, sharp mental focus, and living under the threat of death. This kind of high-pressure lifestyle can leave lasting effects, even after retirement. It’s possible that the years of fighting, stress, and danger caused Sakamoto to age faster than normal, at least in appearance.
2- Retirement and Lifestyle Changes
After falling in love and deciding to live a peaceful life, Sakamoto left his assassin days behind. He gained weight and focused on being a family man and store owner. This drastic change in lifestyle from being active and on the move to a more sedentary routine may have contributed to his older look. His rounder face and relaxed posture might make him seem older than his age.
The stress from his past life as an assassin might still show on his face. Even though Sakamoto is now living happily, the years of tension and danger could have left their mark. Wrinkles, a tired expression, or subtle signs of ageing might be the result of everything he went through in his earlier years.
3. His Unique Character Design
The way Sakamoto looks isn’t just about his story—it’s also a clever choice by the manga’s creator. Sakamoto’s older appearance makes him stand out and adds a comedic element. It’s surprising to see someone who looks like a regular middle-aged man pull off amazing assassin moves. This contrast between how he looks and what he can do makes the story even more entertaining.
4- Relatability and Realism
Sakamoto’s older appearance reflects real-life situations. People who stop being physically active or change their lifestyle can sometimes look older. It’s a relatable aspect that makes Sakamoto feel like a real person. Fans connect with him because he’s not just a perfect assassin—he’s also a husband, a father, and someone who enjoys a peaceful life.
5- A Transformative Power Boost

Sakamoto’s chubby appearance doesn’t just add humour to his character; it could also serves as a functional aspect of his abilities. During intense fights, Sakamoto burns calories rapidly, causing him to slim down and reveal a lean, muscular frame. This transformation not only surprises his opponents but also symbolizes his hidden strength. His old and ordinary appearance works as a deceptive advantage, allowing him to unleash his full potential when needed.
Final Thoughts
Sakamoto’s older appearance is a combination of his intense past, his peaceful present, and the creator’s artistic vision. It’s not just how he looks but who he is as a person that makes him so lovable. His character teaches us not to judge someone by their appearance because there’s always more to their story.