Demon Slayer Overview
Demon Slayer, also known as Kimetsu no Yaiba, is an enthralling anime that delves into some serious themes, even though it’s classified as a Shonen. The series comprises several arcs that are relatively short, so it’s important to watch them in the right sequence to fully appreciate the story.
It kicks off with the Unwavering Resolve Arc, the longest among the arcs, which establishes key themes and introduces viewers to the Hashira and various breathing techniques. Our heroes clash with formidable demons, including Muzan Kibutsuji and the powerful Upper Moon demons.
Recommended Viewing Order for Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer consists of numerous arcs and currently totals 63 episodes. The anime is ongoing, with additional arcs to be adapted into movies scheduled for release soon. One of its highlights is the absence of filler content, meaning every episode is essential for the best viewing experience.
Season Breakdown
| Season | Episodes |
|---|---|
| Demon Slayer: Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc | 26 |
| Demon Slayer – The Movie: Mugen Train | 1 (Movie) |
| Demon Slayer: Mugen Train Arc | 7 |
| Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc | 11 |
| Demon Slayer: Swordsmith Village Arc | 11 |
| Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc | 8 |
| Demon Slayer: Infinity Arc | 1 (Movie) |
Note: The Infinity Arc is set to release in July in Japan, with availability in the U.S. expected in September. The number of movies adapting this arc has yet to be confirmed.
Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc
The first season of Demon Slayer lays the groundwork for the series and explores themes that will be further expanded in future arcs. Tanjiro trains rigorously to master his breathing techniques and powers. The season also introduces the Hashira and the main antagonist, Muzan Kibutsuji, along with key characters like Urodaki and Kanao. Tanjiro teams up with Inosuke and Zenitsu, leading to both lighthearted moments and significant character developments throughout the series.
Episode Titles for the First Season
| Episode | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cruelty |
| 2 | Trainer Sakonji Urodaki |
| 3 | Sabito and Makomo |
| 4 | Final Selection |
| 5 | My Own Steel |
| 6 | Swordsman Accompanying a Demon |
| 7 | Muzan Kibutsuji |
| 8 | The Smell of Enchanting Blood |
| 9 | Temari Demon and Arrow Demon |
| 10 | Together Forever |
| 11 | Tsuzumi Mansion |
| 12 | The Boar Bares Its Fangs, Zenitsu Sleeps |
| 13 | Something More Important Than Life |
| 14 | The House with the Wisteria Family Crest |
| 15 | Mount Natagumo |
| 16 | Letting Someone Else Go First |
| 17 | You Must Master a Single Thing |
| 18 | A Forged Bond |
| 19 | Hinokami |
| 20 | Pretend Family |
| 21 | Against Corps Rules |
| 22 | Master of the Mansion |
| 23 | Hashira Meeting |
| 24 | Rehabilitation Training |
| 25 | Tsuguko, Kanao Tsuyuri |
| 26 | New Mission |
Mugen Train Arc
For those who watched the Mugen Train movie, you can skip the anime version of this arc, except for the opening episode, which offers valuable background on Kyojuro Rengoku and enriches the movie’s storyline. New viewers may choose to bypass the film and opt for the anime, which presents fresh perspectives and enhanced visuals that heighten the overall experience.
Episode Titles for the Mugen Train Arc
| Episode | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku |
| 2 | Deep Slumber |
| 3 | Should Have Been |
| 4 | Insult |
| 5 | Move Forward! |
| 6 | Akaza |
| 7 | Set Your Heart Ablaze |
Entertainment District Arc
The Entertainment District Arc shifts focus to the Sound Hashira, as Tanjiro confronts an Upper Moon Demon along with Nezuko.
Episode Titles for the Entertainment District Arc
| Episode | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui |
| 2 | Infiltrating the Entertainment District |
| 3 | What Are You? |
| 4 | Tonight |
| 5 | Things Are Gonna Get Flashy |
| 6 | Layered Memories |
| 7 | Transformation |
| 8 | Gathering |
| 9 | Defeating an Upper Rank Demon |
| 10 | Never Give Up |
| 11 | No Matter How Many Lives |
Swordsmith Village Arc
This arc centers on the Swordsmiths, who are essential for creating weapons for the Demon Corps. It also introduces the Mist Hashira and the Love Hashira.
Episode Titles for the Swordsmith Village Arc
| Episode | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Someone’s Dream |
| 2 | Yoriichi Type Zero |
| 3 | A Sword from Over 300 Years Ago |
| 4 | Thank You, Tokito |
| 5 | Bright Red Sword |
| 6 | Aren’t You Going to Become a Hashira? |
| 7 | Awful Villain |
| 8 | The Mu in Muichiro |
| 9 | Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito |
| 10 | Love Hashira Mitsuru Kanroji |
| 11 | A Connected Bond: Daybreak and First Light |
Hashira Training Arc
In the Hashira Training Arc, the story focuses on the Hashira members not previously explored, as they train in preparation for the looming conflict against Muzan Kibutsuji.
Episode Titles for the Hashira Training Arc
| Episode | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | To Defeat Muzan Kibutsuji |
| 2 | Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka’s Pain |
| 3 | Fully Recovered Tanjiro Joins Hashira Training |
| 4 | To Bring a Smile to One’s Face |
| 5 | I Even Ate Demons |
| 6 | The Strongest of the Demon Slayer Corps |
| 7 | Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima |
| 8 | The Hashira Unite |
This overview serves to guide new viewers and seasoned fans alike through the captivating journey of Demon Slayer, ensuring they enjoy each episode in the recommended order.