About the Manga and Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba”

1. Synopsis

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” tells the story of a young boy, “Kamado Tanjiro,” whose family is slaughtered by demons. He joins the “Demon Slayer Corps” to turn his only surviving sister, “Nezuko,” back into a human. Tanjiro undergoes rigorous training and battles numerous demons as a member of the Demon Slayer Corps. Throughout his journey, he meets and forms strong bonds with companions like Zenitsu and Inosuke, fighting alongside them against formidable enemies.

At the heart of the story is the final showdown with the demon king, “Muzan Kibutsuji.” Muzan became the first demon over a thousand years ago and has caused suffering to many people. Tanjiro and his comrades strive to defeat Muzan and save the world from the threat of demons.

2. Main Characters

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” features many captivating characters.

• “Kamado Tanjiro”: The protagonist who possesses both kindness and strength.
• “Nezuko”: Tanjiro’s sister, who, despite being turned into a demon, retains her human heart.
• “Agatsuma Zenitsu”: A cowardly swordsman who masters the “Thunder Breathing.”
• “Hashibira Inosuke”: A wild child with a boar mask, possessing great strength and animalistic senses.
• “Tomioka Giyu”: Known as the “Water Hashira,” a pillar member of the Demon Slayer Corps.
• “Kocho Shinobu”: A member of the “Insect Hashira,” skilled in delicate techniques.
• “Rengoku Kyojuro”: A member of the “Flame Hashira,” known for his strong beliefs and skills.

Each character brings their unique abilities and beliefs to the battle against demons.

3. The Demon Slayer Corps and Their Demonic Foes

The “Demon Slayer Corps” is an organization dedicated to eradicating demons, comprised of swordsmen selected through rigorous training. The strongest swordsmen, known as “Hashira,” lead the corps, which is structured by a ranking system.

The main enemies of the Demon Slayer Corps are “Muzan Kibutsuji” and his subordinates, the “Twelve Kizuki.” The Twelve Kizuki are divided into “Upper Moons” and “Lower Moons,” each possessing powerful abilities. The Upper Moons, in particular, have extremely high combat capabilities, posing significant challenges to the Demon Slayer Corps swordsmen.

4. Manga and Anime Structure

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” was serialized in “Weekly Shonen Jump” and consists of 23 volumes.

The anime adaptation, produced by “ufotable,” began airing in 2019. The series includes the first season “Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc,” the movie “Mugen Train Arc,” the second season “Entertainment District Arc,” and the third season “Swordsmith Village Arc.” The anime has been highly praised for its beautiful animation and intense battle scenes.

The movie “Mugen Train Arc” holds the record for the highest box office earnings in Japan.

5. About the Taisho Period, Setting of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

The story of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” is set in the Taisho period of Japan, which lasted from 1912 to 1926. This era was a blend of Western and Japanese cultures.

Japan during the Taisho period featured a mix of modern urban landscapes and traditional scenery, which is vividly portrayed in the work. The social and cultural context of the Taisho period deeply influences the background and setting of the characters and the story.

6. Top 5 Pilgrimage Spots

Here are five pilgrimage spots where fans can experience the world of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.” These locations are closely related to the setting and characters of the work and are popular among fans.

1. “Amano Iwatate Shrine” (Nara City, Nara Prefecture)

“Amano Iwatate Shrine” is noted for having a “Ittoseki” (a stone cut in one stroke) similar to the one Tanjiro sliced before the final selection.

• Access: About 30 minutes on foot from the bus stop at Yagyu Station, reachable by bus from Nara Station.

2. “Ashikaga Flower Park” (Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture)

“Ashikaga Flower Park” is believed to be the model for “Mount Fujikasane,” the site of the final selection for the Demon Slayer Corps. The wisteria flowers are in full bloom from April to May.

• Access: About 3 minutes on foot from Ashikaga Flower Park Station.

3. “Okawaso” (Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture)

“Okawaso” is considered the model for the “Infinity Castle,” with live shamisen performances reminiscent of the demon “Nakime.”

• Access: About 40 minutes by car from Aizuwakamatsu Interchange or via shuttle from Ashinomaki Onsen Station.

4. “Asakusa” (Taito City, Tokyo)

“Asakusa” is where Tanjiro first encounters “Muzan Kibutsuji.” You can enjoy the streets that still retain the atmosphere of the Taisho period.

• Access: Immediately accessible on foot from various Asakusa Stations.

5. “Mount Kumotori” (Okutama, Tokyo)

“Mount Kumotori” is noted in the official fan book as the birthplace of Tanjiro and Nezuko. The climb can be challenging for beginners, so be well-prepared.

• Access: Take a bus from Okutama Station to Kamosawa-nishi or Tanba, then walk from Kamosawa.

When visiting these pilgrimage spots, please be mindful of the local residents and follow proper etiquette. Enjoy immersing yourself in the world of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba”!