Chihaya Ayase is the main protagonist of the anime series Chihayafuru. She is a passionate and determined high school student who has developed a deep love for the Japanese card game, karuta. Inspired by her childhood friend Arata Wataya, Chihaya dreams of becoming the Queen of Karuta, the top female player in Japan. Her journey to master the game is marked by her competitive spirit, leadership qualities, and the formation of the Mizusawa High School Karuta Club. Chihaya's character embodies perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams.