Hijiri-sama translates into 'the Saint' which in Japanese belief refers to one of holy nature and a pure soul. Hijiri-sama first makes her appearance in Manga Chapter #301 and in the anime Episode 149: Haran wo Yobu Ippon no Ya [An Arrow Brewing up A Disturbance]. Hijiri-sama is Kikyou in disguise. After her ordeal and near-death by Naraku on Mnt. Hakurei in Episode 124: Saraba Itoshiki Kikyou yo [Farewell Comes, Dear Kikyou], the miko [priestess] has taken cover to let Naraku continue to believe she is dead. Not only does this give her the advantage of surprise but also a better chance of surviving. Naraku knows that if Kikyou lives, she will be his down fall and is intent to rid of his powerful nemisis.



Hijiri-sama is also known as the white horse rider. She travels on a white horse and is accompanied by her two servants whom are shikigami; Asuka and Kochu. Hijiri-sama is discovered as Kikyou in Episode 150: Seija wo Michibiku Hushigina Hikari [Mysterious Light Leading the Saint] when Kagura attacks the Saint, ripping off her mask. InuYasha is shocked when he sees it is Kikyou and goes to save her after Kagura's attack but Kikyou fades away. It is later found out, Kikyou has taken on Naraku's talent for creating fake puppets of himself. Kikyou is still gravely injured and is 'dieing' from the shouki [miasma] in her body from Naraku's wound.