Like A Dragon

Nishikiyama has a muscular build and loose, black shoulder length hair. Nishikiyama wears a double-breasted white suit, black dress shirt, white patterned necktie, and black crocodile leather oxfords.

Nishikiyama is a very loyal and supportive towards his friends and family such as Kiryu and Kazama. He often hangs out with Kiryu, and frequently banters about his inadequate taste in fashion. Despite being forced by the Dojima Family to fight against Kiryu during the empty lot incident, Nishikiyama fought alongside his sworn brother many times and promised that he'd always be there. Nishikiyama also seems to worry about Kiryu for his reckless attempts against the Dojima Family. He also firmly believes that people can succeed in the world through appearance rather than substance.

Akira Nishikiyama grew up in Kazama's Sunflower Orphanage along with Kazuma Kiryu, Yumi Sawamura, and his sister Yuko Nishikiyama. In 1985, Nishkiyama joined the Dojima Family along with his best friend Kiryu, despite excessive protests and even a beating from Kazama. Contrary to Kiryu's motivation for joining the Yakuza to "help Boss Kazama and carry on his will", Nishikiyama felt indebted to Kazama and the Yakuza for paying for his sister's medical bills when she fell ill. Even though both brothers were frequently involved in fights, both feel self-gratified in this new criminal lifestyle.