An orphaned boy cursed with the ability to see yōkai (spirits), Watanuki entered into an agreement with Yūko to work for her in exchange for the fulfillment of his wish–to never see spirits again. However, despite the fact that he hates his ability, Watanuki often goes out of his way to help people that he comes into contact with because of his power, even when he is not required to do so by his job. He is also very independent, because he has had to live alone for most of his life, and is an excellent cook and housekeeper.