Zato-Ino

Zato-Ino is a blind swordspig who inhabits the feudal Japan-inspired world of Usagi Yojimbo, crossing paths with samurai rabbit Miyamoto Usagi and other denizens of that universe. The character's name parodies the famous blind swordsman Zatoichi.

Zato-Ino made their debut in the pages of Critters #7 in 1987, brought to life by Freddy Milton and Kim Thompson during comics' Copper Age — a rich era of bold independent storytelling. Over a remarkable 36-year span, this character has woven their way through the beloved world of Usagi Yojimbo, sharing adventures alongside some of that universe's most iconic figures: Miyamoto Usagi, Gen, Tomoe Ame, Lord Noriyuki, and the wily Kitsune. Published through Fantagraphics, a house synonymous with artistically ambitious comics, Zato-Ino is the kind of recurring presence that rewards devoted readers who dig deep into the rich tapestry of that feudal-Japan-inspired world. Sixteen catalog appearances across nearly four decades, including a role in The Dragon Bellow Conspiracy, make this a character worth seeking out for any serious Usagi Yojimbo enthusiast.