Within the Touhou Project, Reimu Hakurei is a central character, serving as the main protagonist in several games within this bullet-hell shooting game series. Created by Team Shanghai Alice’s sole member, ZUN, Reimu is a shrine maiden residing at the Hakurei Shrine, positioned on the border between the human and yokai worlds in Gensokyo. Her character is defined by her laid-back demeanor, yet she possesses an innate sense of duty to maintain balance and resolve incidents that disrupt the tranquility of Gensokyo.

Debuting in the first Touhou game, “Touhou Reiiden: Highly Responsive to Prayers,” Reimu evolved as the series progressed. Known for her signature red and white shrine maiden outfit, Reimu wields spiritual powers and is often accompanied by her familiar, a black-white yin-yang orb named Yukari Yakumo. As the central figure, Reimu engages in danmaku battles against various characters, each with unique spell cards. Her popularity extends beyond the games, with appearances in manga, music, and fan works, making Reimu Hakurei an iconic symbol of the Touhou Project and an enduring character in the realm of doujin gaming.