Summary
The name Kagura derives from the Shinto ritual term for "entertainment of the gods," referring to traditional music performed at shrines and the Imperial Court. She also appears as a cameo as an anthropologist in Kazuhisa Todayama’s Classroom of Thesis; From the Report to the Graduation Thesis, where she interacts with other Azumanga Daioh characters. Although she appears early on as one of Nyamo’s students, Kagura does not become a true member of the group until the second year, when Yukari recruits her as a ringer to help win the school athletic competitions. While she devotes most of her time to the swim team, she is an all-around skilled athlete. Her dedication to swimming results in prominent tan lines during the summer, a fact that friends like Osaka quickly point out. Kagura harbors a one-sided rivalry with Sakaki, constantly attempting to outdo her in activities ranging from softball and sprinting to eating lunch. This dynamic was established during the first-year field day when Kagura was defeated by Sakaki in a running event. Upon meeting again, Kagura declares Sakaki her rival, yet she continues to try and be a good friend. However, Sakaki is a natural athlete who has no memory of their first race, leaving Kagura stunned, and Sakaki defeats her in almost every event except those requiring stamina. Like her rival, Kagura is sometimes embarrassed when Tomo draws attention to her large breasts.
