Introduction to Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Title: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Author: Koyoharu Gotouge
Genre: Action, Adventure, Dark Fantasy, Martial Arts
Original Run: April 6, 2019 – Present (Anime), February 15, 2016 – May 18, 2020 (Manga)
Studio: Ufotable
Number of Seasons: 5 (As of June 2024)
Number of Episodes: 44 (Including the upcoming third season)
Manga Volumes: 23

Main Character

Tanjiro Kamado

Tanjiro Kamado is the eldest son in a family of charcoal sellers. After his family is slaughtered by the demon Muzan Kibutsuji, he becomes a Demon Slayer to cure his sister Nezuko, who has been turned into a demon. Tanjiro is known for his kind nature and determination, mastering both the Water Breathing and Hinokami Kagura techniques. Despite suffering severe injuries in the final battle, including the loss of his arm and eye, he is healed after a brief transformation into a demon, thanks to his friends’ help.

Nezuko Kamado

Nezuko Kamado, Tanjiro’s sister, survives the family attack as a demon. She battles her demonic nature but retains her human memories, protecting humans and fighting other demons. Nezuko can recover her strength through sleep and has unique abilities like Exploding Blood. She eventually regains her humanity after a long struggle.

Zenitsu Agatsuma

Zenitsu Agatsuma is a fearful boy who joins the Demon Slayer Corps to settle his debts. Despite his self-doubt, he is a skilled fighter who masters the first form of Thunder Breathing. His journey with Tanjiro helps him overcome his fears and fight consciously.

Inosuke Hashibira

Inosuke Hashibira was raised by boars and is known for his wild and aggressive nature. He uses the self-taught Beast Breathing technique and wields serrated swords. Inosuke’s friendship with Tanjiro softens his demeanor, and he becomes a valuable ally.

Kanao Tsuyuri

Kanao Tsuyuri is a disciplined Demon Slayer and the adoptive sister of the Insect Hashira, Shinobu Kocho. She struggles with decision-making due to her traumatic past but grows to trust her judgment after meeting Tanjiro. Kanao’s heightened sight aids her in battle, though it eventually leads to partial blindness.

Genya Shinazugawa

Genya Shinazugawa is a brash Demon Slayer who cannot use traditional techniques. Instead, he consumes demon parts to gain temporary powers. His journey is marked by growth and sacrifice, as he learns to work with others and harness his unique abilities.

Demon Slayer Corps

The Ubuyashiki family has been at the helm of the Corps for generations. Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the 97th leader, is revered for his leadership despite a familial curse linked to the demon Muzan Kibutsuji. His selfless act of sacrifice greatly weakens Muzan, but it also leads to his and his estate’s demise. Amane Ubuyashiki, Kagaya’s wife, has played a pivotal role in the Corps’ operations and the recruitment of key members like the Mist Hashira, Muichiro Tokito. She perishes alongside her husband.

Kagaya’s children, Hinaki and Nichika, served as his aides and also perished in the estate’s destruction. Kiriya Ubuyashiki, Kagaya’s only son, takes over the leadership after his father’s death. He leads the Corps to victory against Muzan and later disbands the organization, having fulfilled its purpose. Remarkably, Kiriya lives on to become Japan’s longest-living person in the Reiwa era. Kuina and Kanata, the younger Ubuyashiki siblings, support Kiriya in leading the Corps during the final showdown with Muzan.

Hashira

The Hashira, also known as the Pillars, are the nine most powerful swordsmen in the Demon Slayer Corps, each mastering a unique breathing style. They include:

• Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, is the strongest among them. A former monk, he becomes a fierce warrior while maintaining his compassion. He wields a kusarigama instead of a sword and plays a significant role in the battles against demons. He meets his end after a valiant fight but is later reincarnated as a teacher.
• Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, is a distant and seemingly indifferent warrior who harbors a deep-seated anger towards demons. He regains his lost memories and defeats a major demon before falling in battle. He is reincarnated alongside his twin brother.
• Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, is known for her exceptional strength and flexibility. She seeks acceptance and love within the Corps. She fights bravely against demons and confesses her love to a fellow Hashira before dying from her injuries. She is later reincarnated as a restaurateur with her beloved.
• Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, is a vibrant and honorable warrior who dies defending others from a powerful demon. His legacy continues as he is reincarnated as a high school student.
• Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, is the first Demon Slayer Tanjiro encounters. He battles alongside Tanjiro against demons, losing an arm but surviving the war. His reincarnation is a child named Giichi.
• Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, uses a unique poison in her fight against demons. She sacrifices herself to ensure the defeat of a powerful demon and is reincarnated as a high school student.
• Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, is a former shinobi with a flashy personality. He retires after losing a hand and an eye but aids in the final battle. His reincarnation is an Olympic gymnast.
• Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira, is known for his aggressive nature. He survives the final battle with injuries and is reincarnated as a police officer.
• Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira, is accompanied by his snake Kaburamaru. He fights fiercely against demons and confesses his love before dying from his wounds.

Demon

Demons are immortal beings that feed on human blood to gain strength. Originally humans, they lose their humanity after being transformed by Muzan Kibutsuji’s blood. They have superior abilities, regeneration, and can use unique Blood Demon Arts. Sunlight and decapitation with Nichirin Swords are their weaknesses, along with wisteria flowers.

Muzan Kibutsuji, the progenitor of all demons, sought to create a sunlight-resistant demon. His obsession with this goal led to the attack on Tanjiro’s family and his pursuit of Nezuko, who showed resistance to sunlight. The Demon Slayer Corps exploited his obsession, leading to a trap that resulted in his demise after a fierce battle where he attempted to turn Tanjiro into a demon.

The Twelve Kizuki are Muzan’s elite demons, marked by special engravings in their eyes. The Upper Ranks are the most formidable, having remained unchallenged for over a century until Tanjiro’s group joined the Corps.

Key Upper Ranks include:

• Kokushibo, Upper Rank One, who was once a Demon Slayer and sought to surpass his brother’s swordsmanship. He falls in battle against the Demon Slayers.
• Doma, Upper Rank Two, a cult leader turned demon who devoured his followers, including Inosuke’s mother. He is defeated by the combined efforts of Shinobu, Kanao, and Inosuke.
• Akaza, Upper Rank Three, despises weakness and seeks strong opponents to turn into demons. He regains his humanity during a battle and chooses to end his life.
• Hantengu, Upper Rank Four, can split into multiple emotion-based clones. He is defeated by Tanjiro but informs Muzan of Nezuko’s immunity to sunlight before dying.
• Nakime, the new Upper Rank Four, controls the Infinity Castle and is killed by Muzan to prevent the Demon Slayers from taking over.
• Gyokko, Upper Rank Five, is an artist who takes pride in his macabre creations and meets his end at the hands of the Demon Slayers.

Season 01 Demon Slayer : Kimetsu no Yaiba

The story is set during Japan’s Taishō era, a period when humanity faces the hidden threat of demons—once human beings transformed into monsters with extraordinary powers. These demons possess abilities such as immense strength, rapid healing, and unique supernatural skills known as “Blood Demon Arts.” The narrative follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a Demon Slayer after his family is brutally killed and his sister, Nezuko, is turned into a demon.

Music and Themes

The opening theme of the series is “Gurenge” (紅蓮華, “Red Lotus”) performed by Lisa, while the ending theme is “from the edge” by FictionJunction featuring Lisa. Notably, episode 19 features the ending theme “Kamado Tanjiro no Uta” (竈門炭治郎のうた, “Tanjiro Kamado’s Song”) by Go Shiina, featuring Nami Nakagawa.

Season 01 Episode Explanation

Cruelty (Episode 1, 24m)
Tanjiro discovers the massacre of his family, with only his sister Nezuko surviving but changed.

Trainer Sakonji Urokodaki (Episode 2, 24m)
Tanjiro and Nezuko head to the mountains, encountering a gruesome scene at a temple.

Sabito and Makomo (Episode 3, 24m)
Tanjiro trains under Sakonji Urokodaki to join the Demon Slayer Corps and prepare for the Final Selection.

Final Selection (Episode 4, 24m)
The Final Selection begins, where Tanjiro and other trainees must survive among demons for seven days.

My Own Steel (Episode 5, 24m)
Tanjiro, one of the four survivors, receives his first mission and a new sword.

Swordsman Accompanying a Demon (Episode 6, 24m)
Tanjiro’s first mission takes him to a village with disappearing lovers.

Muzan Kibutsuji (Episode 7, 23m)
Tanjiro faces a swamp demon who splits into three and refuses to divulge information about Muzan Kibutsuji.

The Smell of Enchanting Blood (Episode 8, 24m)
Tanjiro heads to Asakusa, Tokyo, to find a demon hiding among the crowds.

Temari Demon and Arrow Demon (Episode 9, 24m)
While hiding inside a spell-protected house, Tanjiro defends against demons sent by Muzan Kibutsuji.

Together Forever (Episode 10, 24m)
Nezuko battles Susamaru, while Tamayo intervenes with her own spell.

Tsuzumi Mansion (Episode 11, 24m)
Tanjiro meets Zenitsu Agatsuma, another Final Selection survivor, en route to his next mission.

The Boar Bares Its Fangs, Zenitsu Sleeps (Episode 12, 24m)
Inside a rotating house, Tanjiro faces a drum-beating demon and a man wearing a boar mask.

Something More Important Than Life (Episode 13, 24m)
Tanjiro battles Kyogai inside the rotating house.

The House with the Wisteria Family Crest (Episode 14, 24m)
Outside the drum house, Tanjiro encounters a beaten Zenitsu and the man with the boar’s head mask.

Mount Natagumo (Episode 15, 24m)
Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke head to Natagumo Mountain, home to a spider horde.

Letting Someone Else Go First (Episode 16, 24m)
Tanjiro and Inosuke must subdue their fellow Demon Slayers, who are under the control of the spider demons.

You Must Master a Single Thing (Episode 17, 24m)
Tanjiro learns of a demon directly under Muzan Kibutsuji who may hold the key to turning Nezuko back to human.

A Forged Bond (Episode 18, 24m)
Tanjiro confronts Rui after being flung away during a battle with the father spider demon.

Hinokami (Episode 19, 24m)
Giyu Tomioka arrives, and Inosuke challenges him after witnessing his incredible skills.

Pretend Family (Episode 20, 24m)
Inspired by the memory of his father, Tanjiro unleashes a new move against Rui.

Against Corps Rules (Episode 21, 24m)
Tanjiro’s defense of Nezuko reminds Rui of his desire for a true family connection.

Master of the Mansion (Episode 22, 23m)
Tanjiro faces judgment from the Hashira, the top-ranked Demon Slayer Corps swordsmen.

Hashira Meeting (Episode 23, 24m)
Despite Ubuyashiki accepting Tanjiro and Nezuko, Sanemi tests Nezuko’s demonic instincts.

Rehabilitation Training (Episode 24, 24m)
Tanjiro and others undergo rehabilitation at Shinobu’s estate, rebuilding their strength.

Tsuguko, Kanao Tsuyuri (Episode 25, 24m)
Tanjiro trains to maintain Total Concentration Breathing, inspiring Zenitsu and Inosuke to resume their training.

New Mission (Episode 26, 24m)
Muzan Kibutsuji assigns a task to the sole surviving lower-ranked demon, while Tanjiro receives a new mission.

Season 02 Demon Slayer : Mugen Train Arc and Entertainment District Arc

Mugen Train Arc and Entertainment District Arc

In the “Mugen Train Arc,” protagonist Tanjiro Kamado, alongside the Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku, embarks on a mission aboard a train to confront a formidable demon and protect the passengers. The narrative continues in the “Entertainment District Arc,” where Tanjiro and his comrades, accompanied by Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui, delve into the mystery of Tengen’s missing wives and a demon haunting Yoshiwara’s lively streets.

In the second season of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” the story continues with the Entertainment District Arc. This arc immerses viewers in the lively yet perilous Yoshiwara district. Tanjiro Kamado, accompanied by his sister Nezuko and friends Zenitsu and Inosuke, joins forces with the vibrant Sound Hashira, Tengen Uzui. Together, they undertake a dangerous mission to uncover the mystery behind Tengen’s missing ninja wives and confront a malevolent demon lurking in the district.

Music and Themes:

Musical themes for the arcs include Lisa’s “Akeboshi” and “Shirogane” for the “Mugen Train Arc,” with Aimer’s “Zankyō Sanka” and “Asa ga Kuru” setting the tone for the “Entertainment District Arc.” The seventh episode of the “Mugen Train Arc” notably features “Homura,” also heard in the film.

Season 02 : Mugen Train Arc and Entertainment District Arc Episode Explanation

Episode 1: Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku Air Date: October 10, 2021
Synopsis: Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku sets out from the Demon Slayer Corps Headquarters to investigate the mysterious disappearance of over forty passengers on the Mugen Train.

Episode 2: Deep Sleep Air Date: October 17, 2021
Synopsis: On his way to the Mugen Train, Kyojuro Rengoku saves civilians from a demon attack. Once aboard, he meets Tanjiro and his friends as they embark on their mission.

Episode 3: Should Have Been Air Date: October 24, 2021
Synopsis: Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke board the Mugen Train with Rengoku. They soon fall into a deep sleep due to Enmu’s Blood Demon Art, with Tanjiro dreaming of a life with his lost family.

Episode 4: Insult Air Date: November 7, 2021
Synopsis: Tanjiro and his companions struggle to break free from Enmu’s dream manipulation, realizing they must find a way to wake up and defeat the demon.

Episode 5: Move Forward! Air Date: November 14, 2021
Synopsis: Escaping his dream, Tanjiro faces Enmu in a fierce battle. With the lives of the passengers at stake, Tanjiro’s determination to protect them intensifies.

Episode 6: Akaza Air Date: November 21, 2021
Synopsis: Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Rengoku defend the passengers from Enmu’s attacks. Tanjiro and Inosuke locate Enmu’s weak point and work together to defeat him.

Episode 7: Set Your Heart Ablaze Air Date: November 28, 2021
Synopsis: After Enmu’s defeat, a new threat emerges as the Upper Rank Three demon, Akaza, appears. Rengoku fights valiantly to protect Tanjiro and the others.

Episode 8: Gathering Air Date: December 19, 2021
Synopsis: Recovering from the battle, Tanjiro and his friends continue their mission in the Entertainment District. Inosuke discovers that Makio, one of Uzui’s wives, has secluded herself, raising suspicions.

Episode 9: Defeating an Upper Rank Demon Air Date: January 9, 2022
Synopsis: During their mission in the Entertainment District, Tanjiro and his friends confront Daki, a powerful Upper Rank demon. Tanjiro’s relentless attacks strain his body as Inosuke rescues captured civilians.

Episode 10: Layered Memories Air Date: January 16, 2022
Synopsis: In a desperate struggle against Daki, Tanjiro’s memories of his father’s dance fuel his fighting spirit. Meanwhile, Inosuke discovers the location of the Belt Demon’s nest and frees the captured people.

Episode 11: Things Are Gonna Get Real Flashy!! Air Date: January 2, 2022
Synopsis: Despite being ordered to leave, Tanjiro and Inosuke decide to stay and rescue Zenitsu. Tanjiro’s keen sense of smell leads him to Koinatsu Oiran, who is being devoured by Daki’s Belt.

Episode 12: Infiltrating the Entertainment District Air Date: December 12, 2021
Synopsis: After delivering Kyojuro’s last message to his family, Tanjiro returns to training. He later volunteers for a mission to infiltrate the Entertainment District in place of Aoi and Naho.

Episode 13: What Are You? Air Date: December 19, 2021
Synopsis: Tanjiro and his friends infiltrate the Entertainment District, disguised as courtesans, to search for clues about Uzui’s missing wives. Inosuke’s investigation leads him to Makio, who has been hiding away.

Episode 14: Transfiguration Air Date: January 16, 2022
Synopsis: As Nezuko transforms into her demon form, Tanjiro struggles to prevent her from attacking an injured woman. Daki reappears, angrier than ever, escalating the battle.

Season 03 Demon Slayer : Swordsmith Village Arc

Swordsmith Village Arc

the anime series “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” continues the tale of Tanjiro Kamado and his sister Nezuko as they venture to the Swordsmith Village. This season, officially known as the Swordsmith Village Arc, brings to life chapters 98 to 127 from Koyoharu Gotouge’s acclaimed manga. The narrative unfolds over a series of episodes broadcast from April 9 to June 18, 2023.

This season’s journey introduces Tanjiro and Nezuko to new challenges as they join forces with the esteemed Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito and Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji, alongside Demon Slayer Genya Shinazugawa. Together, they face the threat posed by two formidable upper-ranked demons intent on destruction.

Music and Themes :

The musical landscape of the season is defined by the opening theme “Kizuna no Kiseki” and the ending theme “Koi Kogare,” both collaborations between Man with a Mission and Milet. Adding to the auditory experience, “Kamado Nezuko no Uta” by Go Shiina featuring Nami Nakagawa serves as an emotive insert song in the final episode.

Season 03 : Swordsmith Village Arc Episode Explanation

Episode 1: “Dreams of the Forged” Tanjiro sets out for the Swordsmith Village, seeking to repair his blade, while the remaining Upper Rank Demons convene, plotting their next move.

Episode 2: “Echoes of Yoriichi” In the mountains, Tanjiro encounters Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, and learns of a mysterious weapon linked to the legendary demon slayer, Yoriichi Tsugikuni.

Episode 3: “Blade of Ages” Under the tutelage of Kotetsu, Tanjiro masters a new technique to predict his opponent’s moves, leading to a discovery of an ancient sword with a storied past.

Episode 4: “Muichiro’s Resolve” As Muichiro confronts Hantengu, the demon splits into clones, leading to a chaotic battle that tests the Hashira’s strength and determination.

Episode 5: “Crimson Defense” Swordsmith Village comes under attack by a swarm of demons, prompting Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, to rush to its defense with her unique brand of swordsmanship.

Episode 6: “Genya’s Choice” Tanjiro encounters Genya, who has undergone a startling transformation after a fierce battle, prompting a reflection on his tumultuous past.

Episode 7: “Shadow of Malice” As Tanjiro faces off against Hantengu, a new demonic threat emerges, casting a shadow over his mission and testing his resolve.

Episode 8: “Muichiro’s Awakening” Trapped by Gyokko, Muichiro relies on his wits and the aid of Kotetsu to escape, leading to a poignant revelation about his family history.

Episode 9: “Mist of the Past” Muichiro confronts Gyokko once more, armed with a newly forged Nichirin blade and a renewed sense of purpose.

Episode 10: “Mitsuri’s Mark” In the heat of battle, Mitsuri discovers newfound strength as she develops a Demon Slayer mark, tipping the scales in her favor.

Episode 11: “Dawn of Decisions” Tanjiro, Genya, and Nezuko pursue the true form of Upper Moon 4, facing moral dilemmas that challenge their very essence as demon slayers.

Season 04 Demon Slayer : Hashira Training Arc

Hashira Training Arc

The fourth season of the acclaimed anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” also known as the Hashira Training Arc, unfolds with the Demon Slayer Corps, including Tanjiro Kamado, undergoing rigorous training under the guidance of the Hashira. This season adapts chapters 128–136 from volumes 15 and 16 of Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga1.

Music

The opening theme “Mugen” and the ending theme “Tokoshie” are performed by My First Story and Hyde, adding a dynamic auditory experience to the season1.

Season 04 : Hashira Training Arc Episode Explanation

Episode 1: “Gathering of the Elite” The Hashira are called to Ubuyashiki Mansion for a crucial meeting, setting the stage for the intense training that lies ahead.

Episode 2: “The Water Hashira’s Burden” Giyu Tomioka grapples with his past and responsibilities, while Tanjiro receives an unexpected message, hinting at the challenges to come.

Episode 3: “Tanjiro’s Resolve” Fully healed, Tanjiro joins the rigorous Hashira Training Program, determined to hone his skills under the tutelage of the former Hashira, Uzui.

Episode 4: “Trials of Strength” Tanjiro impresses with his stamina and progresses to advanced training, where he faces new trials that test his resolve and skill.

Episode 5: “Overcoming the Past” Under the stern guidance of Obanai Iguro, Tanjiro confronts his limitations and learns valuable lessons from the Wind Hashira, Sanemi Shinazugawa.

Episode 6: “The Path to Mastery” Tanjiro completes his training with Iguro and Sanemi and embarks on a journey to the mountains with Zenitsu to seek the wisdom of the Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima.

Episode 7: “The Stone Hashira’s Challenge” In a test of willpower, Tanjiro and Genya work together to overcome a daunting task set by Himejima, leading to a moment of mutual respect and understanding.

Episode 8: “Convergence of Fates” A fateful encounter unfolds under the moonlit sky as Kagaya Ubuyashiki confronts the sinister Muzan Kibutsuji, setting the stage for the battles ahead.