Sasuke Uchiha is also very popular. His power level is on par with the Kage - level, especially after he gains the Rinnegan. Fanfiction often focuses on his redemption arc as he tries to use his power for the good of the ninja world. He could be involved in diplomatic missions between villages as a sort of shadow - Hokage, using his intelligence and combat skills to keep the peace.
Kakashi Hatake is another favorite. Even before becoming the Hokage, he was considered one of the strongest ninjas. In fanfiction, his laid - back attitude combined with his vast knowledge of jutsu makes for interesting stories. He could be in a situation where he has to train a new generation of Kage - level ninjas, passing on his unique skills and wisdom.
Definitely Naruto Uzumaki. Since he becomes the Hokage in the original series, he is often a central figure in fanfiction. His growth from a young, mischievous ninja to a powerful Hokage gives a lot of room for creative storylines in fanfiction. Writers can explore his relationships with other villages' leaders, his family life, and his new jutsu development as a Kage - level ninja.
Naruto himself is often very popular. His journey to kage - level in the original series makes him a natural fit in fanfictions at this level. Fans love to see new adventures and challenges for him.
Kakashi Hatake is another beloved character in Kage - level shinobi fanfiction. His experience and unique abilities can be further developed in stories. He could be in a position where he has to make tough decisions as a Kage - level figure. Tsunade is also a popular choice. Fanfictions can focus on her past experiences and how they shape her actions as a Kage - level shinobi, or her relationships with other powerful characters in the village.
One interesting storyline could be a Kage - level ninja from a minor village rising to prominence. For example, a ninja from the Hidden Rain Village who has unique water - based jutsu that no one has seen before. He could start by taking on small missions within his village but then gets noticed by other Kages during a joint mission. This ninja then has to navigate the politics among the different villages while also trying to prove himself as a worthy Kage - level combatant.
Kakashi is often a popular choice in fanfiction. Even though he's not primarily known as a sensor ninja, his Sharingan gives him some sensing abilities, and fanfiction writers like to expand on this aspect. They might create stories where he uses his unique blend of skills to outwit his enemies.
Gaara is a great character for 'naruto kage fanfiction'. He has an interesting backstory, going from being an outcast to a respected kage. His unique abilities and his friendship with Naruto can add a lot to the story. Tsunade is also popular. Her strength as a female kage and her medical ninjutsu knowledge can be interesting aspects to incorporate. And then there's A, the Raikage, with his powerful physique and no - nonsense attitude.
Definitely Naruto. He has so much development throughout the series. If he travels back in time, he could change things like preventing the death of some of his friends or even averting some of the major disasters in the ninja world. His positive attitude and determination would make for an interesting dynamic as he tries to use his knowledge from the future to better the past.
Obviously Naruto himself. Then there could be Sasuke. They might reunite and combine their powers at Kage - level to face challenges. Sakura too, as she's an important part of the Naruto universe.
One possible scenario in this fanfiction could be that the Chunin Exams are made even more challenging with kage - level tasks. For example, instead of just fighting among genin, they might have to face off against kage - level illusions or strategize against kage - level opponents' battle plans. This would test the genin's ability to think on a much higher level.
Naruto himself could still be the main character, but this time showing even more advanced kage - level skills. Maybe he's facing a threat that only his new and improved abilities can handle.
Well, it could be about Naruto coming back after some time away and being at a Kage - level of power. Maybe he has to face a new, powerful enemy that only his enhanced skills can deal with.