The Sugoi Mart Guide to Demon Slayer: Characters, Merch, and More

image credit: altselection.com Demon Slayer, acclaimed for various aspects including characters, action scenes, and the storyline itself, remains one of the most popular anime series to be released ever. In fact, the most recently released season (the third) has had about 15.4 million viewers, causing it to be the top-watched anime series throughout 2023. Kimetsu no Yaiba (Demon Slayer) has kept the world captivated through its rich visual language and symbolism, creating a unique world for viewers to escape into. In this world, the "good" characters battle the "bad" characters. An in-depth look into each character's background showcases how complex the Demon Slayer characters are, whether good or bad. These factors, along with well-thought-out action scenes, breathtaking scenery/visuals, and other various characteristics, have thrust Demon Slayer to the forefront of other manga franchises, causing it to be one of the highest-selling manga of all time. This comprehensive guide aims to uncover the world of Demon Slayer, from its storyline to related must-have Sugoi Mart Demon Slayer merch. Dive into this highly-rated anime and manga series to discover what makes it incredibly appealing to the masses. Demon Slayer Storyline image credit: japaninsider.com Understanding the storyline of Demon Slayer is an essential aspect of becoming a fan of this anime. In the Demon Slayer world, demons lurk in the darkness, preying on humans with their bloodlust and torturous ways. As a young boy, Tanjiro Kamado, the protagonist, has to grow up quickly after his father dies, providing for his family through the sale of coal. One day, demons attack Tanjiro's family, killing them in entirety, with the exception of his sister Nezuko. Unfortunately, in the attack, Nezuko was turned into a demon, though she mysteriously kept her human memories, allowing her to remember her connection to Tanjiro. This traumatic event led Tanjiro to become a member of the Demon Slayer Corps, an organization that hunts demons to protect humans. His main goals remain to avenge his family and to cure his sister. Demon Slayer Timeline: When Does the Story Take Place? It is believed this storyline occurs in the Taishō Period, which lasted from 1912 to 1926. This period is significant in Japanese history, as it coincides with a technology boom. Technology modernization clashed with the traditional ideals that Japan had kept sacred. This sets the scene for Demon Slayers, as the characters make remarks about never having seen items like trains prior to their investigations in larger cities, especially those from the countryside like Tanjiro. This shift in modernization also causes an increasing number of humans in Demon Slayer to provide logical explanations for the demons, which reduces the idea of demons to superstitions/stories. Primary Demon Slayer Characters Tanjiro Kamado image credit: ufotable Tanjiro Kamado is the antagonist of this entire franchise. He began as a kindhearted child providing for his family, yet vowed revenge upon the murder of his family members and demonization of his sister Nezuko. He soon joins the Demon Slayer Corps, training to become the next water breathing slayer under one of the previous water hashiras, Sakonji Urokodaki. He has another power that he uses to hunt down demons - a strong sense of smell, which allows him to distinguish the demons from the humans. He joins other Demon Slayers to protect humanity against demons through battles and missions. Nezuko Kamado image credit: animecorner.me Nezuko is the sister of Tanjiro, who became a demon as a child after the Kamado family was attacked. While other demons cannot control their bloodlust, Nezuko maintains her memories of Tanjiro and her emotions, so she can control herself. She fights alongside Tanjiro in the Demon Slayers, using powers like regeneration and transformation to slay the demons. Unfortunately, she is sensitive to the sunlight like other demons and must wear a bamboo gag to restrain herself from biting humans. Inosuke Hashibira image credit: @DemonSlayerUSA on X.com Inosuke Hashibira has a unique backstory, as he was raised by animals instead of humans. This perhaps led to him mastering his self-taught beast breathing style. He is distinguishable by the boar's head he always wears. He also has a big ego, believing himself to always be the strongest fighter in the room. This characteristic leads him to constantly challenge others to a fight. At first, Inosuke and Tanjiro clash. However, they eventually become excellent fighting companions. Zenitsu Agatsuma image credit: @kimetsu_off on X.com Zenitsu Agatsuma is a teen boy who fell in love at a young age, offering money to his beloved, who left with another boy. This unfortunate circumstance left Zenitsu in debt and with no options, so he was forced to join the Demon Slayers. Though he is quite cowardly, he has mastered one of the thunder breathing techniques and has keen hearing, which comes in handy as he battles demons with Tanjiro and Nezuko. Zenitsu is known for offering his top fighting skills when he is in direct danger (or when unconscious). Demon Slayer Corps Members image credit: gamerant.com While the Demon Slayer Corps has hundreds of members, ten additional Demon Slayer characters remain at the forefront of the stories. These members are named individually in the series, introducing the audience to these secondary characters. Below are details on each of the noted Demon Slayers. Kanao Tsuyuri image credit: @DemonSlayerUSA on X.com Kanao Tsuyuri is the adopted sister of Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira. As a young girl, she joins the Demon Slayers, learning her fighting skills from her sister Shinobu as a tsugoku (apprentice). Kanao is famous for being quiet, causing her to appear mysterious and hard to read to those around her. As one of the youngest Demon Slayers, she is also one of the most skilled, causing others like Zenitsu and Inosuke to be intimidated by her during training excercises. Shinobu Kocho image credit: @DemonSlayerUSA on X.com Shinobu Kocho, Kanao's older adopted sister, is the current Insect Hashira. She appears cheerful and happy on the outside but is angry and fierce inside after the death of her parents and sister Kanae. Though she is not as strong as other Demon Slayers, she uses an insect breathing technique to hurt/kill enemies with wisteria poison. Giyu Tomioka image credit: ufotable This character will hold a special meaning to Demon Slayer fans, as he was the first Demon Slayer Corps member that Tanjiro met on his journey. He is known as one of the strongest members, and he holds essential strategic knowledge that aids him in fighting some of the most powerful opponents. Giyu is the Water Hashira and a master of the water breathing techniques, allowing him to battle foes like the Father Spider Demon and win. Kyojuro Rengoku image credit: ufotable As the Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku is the master of the flame breathing style and techniques. His fighting skills allow him to slay demons with a sea of fire. He shares some characteristics with Tanjiro: pride in his duty as a Demon Slayer and a strong sense of right and wrong. His main battles are seen in the Mugen Train Arc, including the battle on the train itself, during which he saves 200 people. Unfortunately, this battle is also when Kyojuro loses his life. Tengen Uzui image credit: ufotable In Japan, the shinobi were considered some of the best fighters. They were such skilled warriors that they were thought to have superpowers. Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, was born into a family of shinobi, learning how to battle from his father. However, he disagreed with his father's style, which included using other people in the pursuit of slaying demons. This led Tengen to join the Demon Slayer Corps, using his self-taught sound breathing style to defeat demons. Muichiro Tokito image credit: @DemonSlayerUSA on X.com A master of his mist breathing style, Muichiro Tokito is a prodigy with his fighting skills. Initially, he comes off as aloof and cold, yet he is a more complex individual as evidenced throughout the storyline. He became a Demon Slayer after a battle with his brother and a demon left his brother severely wounded. Muichiro took over the battle, eventually killing the demon by fighting him until the sun rose. Unfortunately, Muichiro's brother Yuichiro passed away. This led to Muichiro joining the Demon Slayers. It is said Muichiro's strength comes from his father, the famed Yoriichi Tsugikuni, also known as the most powerful Demon Slayer in history. Mitsuri Kanroji image credit: animecorner.me The Love Hashira, Mitsuri Kanroji, is a shy bubbly character that also holds immense strength. This incredible strength allows her to withstand attacks from demons that other humans (and Demon Slayers) could not withstand. Mitsuri possesses a unique weapon, a flexible sword which she uses as a whip to destroy enemies. Gyomei Himejima image credit: ufotable Considered the second strongest Hashira in the series, Gyomei Himejima. Unlike other members of the Demon Slayer Corps, he uses a kusarigama, a hand ax connected to a heavy metal weight via a chain. This weapon, along with Gyomei's stone breathing style, aids in combat with demons. While already very powerful, Gyomei gains even more power when he gains the Demon Slayer Mark, a symbol known for providing additional power to the bearer, along with a death sentence at 25. Sanemi Shinazugawa image credit: ufotable Sanemi Shinazugawa is the Wind Hashira, using wind breathing techniques to fight against his foes. He had additional unique characteristics that allowed him to better fight against the demons, such as powerful blood which distracts demons nearby. Sanemi is known for having a quick temper and a strong hatred for demons, which is exacerbated by the many people he has lost over the years. As Sanemi has been fighting demons for many years, his body is covered in visible scars. Obanai Iguro image credit: ufotable As one of the weaker members of the Demon Slayer Corps, Obanai Iguro is a serpent breathing Hashira. He uses twisting and bending techniques (like snakes) to attack his foes. Obanai is known for being a harsh, merciless person to most other characters except for Mitsuri, whom he has feelings for, and Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the Demon Slayer leader. As Obanai is partially blind, he uses Kaburamaru, his snake, to aid him in battle. Demon Slayer Corps: Who Are They? image credit: @kimetsu_off on X.com Those who have yet to watch the anime series or delve into the manga may be wondering more about the Demon Slayer Corps. This group of individuals consists of hundreds of members who are tasked with hunting for demons and protecting humanity from their evil ways. As the government does not acknowledge this group, they must always protect humanity in secret. Each member of the Demon Slayer Corps posesses a specific breathing style which is interwoven with their fighting style and powers. Some breathing styles correlate with the elements, while others (like the insect hashira) take inspiration from stinging insects. Additionally, there are various ranks and positions within the Demon Slayer Corps, ranging from the leader (also known as Oyakata-sama) to the hashira, who are the most skilled fighters. Upper Moon Demons: Current Members image credit: @DemonSlayerSc on X.com The twelve kizuki are the strongest and most well-known demons in the Demon Slayer universe. These demons, also known as the twelve demon moons, were selected by Muzan Kibutsiji the Demon King/Demon Lord. These demons hold a high rank under Muzan, as they are considered the most powerful demons. At one point, these demons were human. However, after receiving the blood of Muzan, their memories were erased, and they became demons intent on quenching their bloodthirst for humans. These twelve demons are divided into two categories: the upper rank and the lower rank. The first group (upper moon) is the strongest six of the group. Muzan Kibutsuji image credit: kimetsu.com Muzan is the demon lord and the first demon to appear in Demon Slayer. He was first turned about 1,000 years prior to Tanjiro's storyline, in the Heian Period. Muzan had heart problems from the start, initially believed to be stillborn until he moved right before the cremation process began. Years later, he underwent an experimental treatment, which caused him to become a demon. Once in demon form, Muzan intended to rid himself of death through any means necessary. This goal led to two tasks - finding the Blue Spider Lily, which initially turned Muzan into a demon, and turning other humans into demons with his blood. Kokushibo image credit: kny_updates on X.com Known as the strongest of the twelve moons, Kokushibo is known as the right hand of Muzan. Kokushibo has been serving Muzan for many years, as he became a demon centuries prior. He is the twin brother of Yoriichi Tsugikuni, a sun breather in the Demon Slayer Corps. Kokushibo has mastered the moon breathing technique to defeat his foes, which is noted as the second strongest combat technique. Doma image credit: ufotable Doma is another high-ranking upper moon, yet he is not to be trifled with. This demon is devoid of empathy, which allows him to be a ruthless killer, especially when his charisma and charm shine through. The blood demon art used by Doma is cryokinesis, a technique that allows him to produce ice via his weapons and in his flesh/blood. Akaza image credit: ufotable Known as the upper moon three (aka the third most powerful demon), Akaza is the master of close combat. These combat skills, combined with quick regeneration, make him quite deadly. He also possesses destructive death powers, allowing him to make shockwaves, among other powers. Gyokko image credit: ufotable Perhaps one of the cruelest and most narcissistic demons, Gyokko enjoys inflicting pain on others. He adores arts and crafts, and demands appreciation of his art or he becomes easily angered. Gyokko harbors a unique power which uses pots to transport from place to place. He can also conjure fish demons as an additional method for attacking foes. Nakime image credit: kimetsu-no-yaiba.fandom.com Nakime is a newer demon character which first appeared in season three. She became the upper moon four after the death of Hantengu. Before she was a demon, Nakime enjoyed killing people prior to her biwa performances. Once she becomes a demon, she continues using her biwa to summon her powers to shift and change a castle. The series has yet to explore her powers more, but she is expected to be quite strong. Kaigaku image credit: gamerant.com Kaigaku is the upper moon six in the series, a position previously held by Daki and Gyutaro (see below for more details). Kaigaku is another character with an interesting background, as he was once part of the Demon Slayer Corps. During a battle in the Hashira Training Arc, he surrenders to save himself, which leads to him drinking Muzan's blood and becoming demonic. His demon powers are derived from his thunder breathing style, which he used as a Demon Slayer. Daki/Gyutaro image credit: reddit.com/r/KimetsuNoYaiba While Daki and Gyutaro are not current members, as they were slain in season two, they're worth mentioning due to their unique powers. This brother and sister demon duo are interconnected as they were when they were human. Both skilled fighters possess terrifying powers that allow them to rule the Entertainment District. Gyutaro is a top-notch swordsman, while Daki uses her seduction to lure in humans. Gyutaro can help Daki when she is wounded by healing her injuries, as he possesses regeneration abilities. He also has the ability to merge with Daki, appearing as a third eye when they are connected. These siblings can only be killed when they are slain simultaneously by Tanjiro, Tengen, Zenitsu, and Inosuke. Lower Moon Demons: Current Members The following characters are current lower moon demons, though many have been slain in the most recently released season. Enmu image credit: @DemonSlayerUSA on X.com When Rui dies, Muzan summons Enmu to the Infinity Castle. As he is in the castle, he witnesses the killing of the other lower-rank demons. However, Muzan spares Enmu because of his loyalty, as long as he can kill Tanjiro. Because of this request, Enmu merges his body with the Mugen train in an attempt to get rid of Tanjiro. However, Tanjiro is able to slay Enmu by beheading him, leaving Enmu as a small red blob before he dies. Rokuro image credit: animesolution.com Like Nakime, Rokuro is a newer demon in the twelve kizuki. He replaced Hairo as the lower moon two. He appeared for a short time in the Mugen Train Arc, demanding more blood from Muzan to grow stronger. Unfortunately, Muzan is insulted by this request, resulting in Rokuro's death. This short appearance means the series did not explore the character much, so his powers are unknown. Wakuraba image credit: ufotable Wakuraba appears for a short time in the Mugen Train Arc as well. However, he is considered a very loyal companion to Muzan. His short appearance demonstrated his ability for speed. However, he decides to run away from the castle during the massacre of other lower moons, which Muzan sees as disobedience. However, he was not quick enough to escape Muzan, who ended his life. Mukago image credit: ufotable As the lower moon four, not much is known about Mukago. Like Wakuraba, Mukago was killed during the lower moon massacre. However, the series did not take the time to explore her abilities, character, or backstory much, if at all. Rui image credit: ufotable Though Rui is a lower moon demon, the series explores his story over the course of an episode. When Rui was human, he was quite frail and small. Because of this, he seeks other humans that meet these qualities and turns them into demons, forever aiming to create a larger and larger "family." Rui has the ability to alter the appearance of any demons he changed. He also uses a spider web in combat, which is overtly strong. Kamanue image credit: kimetsu-no-yaiba-narratives.fandom.com Kamanue is the lower moon six, a position once held by the demon Kyogai. Like many of the other lower demons, Kamanue only appears briefly in the show, so his character is not fully explored. Unfortunately, Muzan overheard Kamanue's thoughts and devoured him as a response. How to Watch the Demon Slayer Seasons in Order image credit: Crunchyroll If you intend to watch the anime series in order, this section is worth reading. So far, the first three seasons have been released, while season four is set to release in May 2024. Additionally, three movies have been introduced in this series. Below, you'll find additional details on the currently released seasons, movies, and the upcoming season. It's worth noting that all released seasons are available on Crunchyroll. Here is the recommended viewing sequence: Season 1: This season runs from episode 1 to episode 26 and consists of the first six Arcs of the series, including the Final Selection Arc. During this season, Tanjiro Kamado sets out after his family is murdered to begin his training. He also has his first mission/run-in with a demon in this season. The season ends with the Functional Training Arc, which showcases Nezuko's restraint when it comes to eating humans. Tanjiro and Nezuko also meet Inosuke and Zenitsu in this season. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train: This movie covers the same topics and arc as the second season. However, it offers a briefer look at the storyline than the series' second season. Because of this, it's a great option to watch first. Season 2: As mentioned, the second season follows the Mugen Train Arc as well. This season only encompasses episodes 27-33, though it explores the arc much more in-depth, providing additional context and details for viewers. After recovering at the Butterfly Mansion (shown in the final episodes of season one), Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke are sent to investigate the Mugen Train, which has seen the disappearance of 40 individuals. On this journey, they meet the powerful Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku as they battle the demon of the train. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – To the Swordsmith Village: This second movie of the franchise is used to bridge seasons two and three. It includes the last few episodes of season two and teases the first episode of season three (the Swordsmith Village Arc). Season 3: The third season covers the Swordsmith Village Arc, wherein Tanjiro and his comrades meet Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui, also known as the best swordsman in the Demon Slayer Corps. During this season, the group is tasked with investigating Yoshiwara Entertainment District, a location rumored to have demon inhabitants. At night, it is said there is a mysterious and evil presence which lurks, awaiting in the darkness for humans. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - To the Hashira Training: The third film of the franchise features the final episode of season three plus a sneak peak of season four (the Hashira Training Arc). Like the second movie, this movie acts as a bridge between season three and four. Season 4: Recently released, the fourth season of Demon Slayer is a thrilling offering for fans. It is said this season will follow the Hashira Training Arc, which appeared in the manga series. During this arc, Tanjiro Kamado is sent to Himejima, a training camp of sorts where Demon Slayers are put through rigorous methods to teach them to become hashira. This series is expected to consist of five seasons in total, with the final season yet to have a release date. Based on the previous schedule of movie releases within this series, a fourth movie appears to be planned. Explore the Manga/Anime Series with Sugoi Mart Demon Slayer Merch For true Demon Slayer fans, there is one location which holds some of the best merchandise - Sugoi Mart. Below, we explore the can't-miss merch from the Sugoi Mart Demon Slayer Collection, including a review on various featured items from the website page. Demon Slayer Speaking Doll: Nezuko == https://sugoimart.com/collections/demon-slayer/products/demon-slayer-speaking-doll-nezuko == This versatile doll is the perfect gift for kids and adults! It features an adorable Nezuko voice, activated through various actions, from shaking the Demon Slayer Speaking Doll: Nezuko to patting her hair. It even features Nezuko's distinct kimono and bamboo gag. Both entertaining and exciting, this doll is a great addition to Demon Slayer displays and kids' toy bins. Demon Slayer Marshmallow Gachapon Vol.3 == https://sugoimart.com/collections/demon-slayer/products/demon-slayer-marshmallow-gachapon-vol-3 == This Demon Slayer Marshmallow Gachapon Vol.3 is an easy way to show your love of the series. Each gachapon toy is shaped like a marshmallow and comes with a keychain attached, so you can bring it anywhere. The toy comes in five versions, each featuring a different Demon Slayer character. The gachapon are sent at random, so you'll have to wait to find out which character you receive. Demon Slayer Blue Soup Bowl == https://sugoimart.com/collections/demon-slayer/products/demon-slayer-soup-bowl-blue == This Demon Slayer Blue Soup Bowl allows you to enjoy snacks and other treats in style. Select from a blue or pink bowl, each featuring popular characters from the show, like Inosuke and Tanjiro. It's perfect for soup, salad, potato chips, and more. Grab items from this list to celebrate your favorite Demon Slayer characters! Or check out Sugoi Mart for additional Demon Slayer merch inspired by the manga/anime series. Head to our dedicated Demon Slayer collection page to find the coolest figures, cutest plushies, and unique Demon Slayer gachapons. Better yet, snatch some Japanese snacks to accompany your season 4 watch party!