Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Plot Summary & Ending

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” is a popular Japanese manga and anime series written by Koyoharu Gotouge. It was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 2016 to 2020 and gained enormous worldwide popularity, breaking historical records. Interestingly, the manga itself did not gain much popularity initially but became a huge hit after being adapted into an anime.

Tanjiro Kamado and Muzan Kibutsuji stand as absolute adversaries in “Demon Slayer,” forming a crucial axis that runs from the beginning to the end of the story. Their relationship transcends a simple good-versus-evil conflict, embodying a tragic, fate-bound connection.

Within the bond of siblings, Muzan attacks the Kamado family, killing all members except the sister Nezuko, whom he transforms into a demon—thus marking the beginning of tragedy. This leads Tanjiro to embark on a journey to avenge his family and restore Nezuko’s humanity. Upon their first encounter, Tanjiro memorizes Muzan’s scent as a decisive clue in his pursuit. However, Muzan seeks to hunt down Nezuko, who has overcome sunlight—the only weakness of demons—to become invincible.

While Tanjiro aims to restore Nezuko’s humanity and annihilate Muzan, Muzan attempts to conquer sunlight and achieve complete immortality. Muzan is aware that Nezuko is the only demon resistant to sunlight and targets her to make her the perfect demon. Their conflict reaches its climax in the final battle (the “Infinity Castle” arc). Just before Muzan’s destruction, he injects Tanjiro with his blood to turn him into the ultimate demon, but Tanjiro resists and rejects becoming a demon, maintaining his human will.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Title: 귀멸의 칼날 | 鬼滅の刃
Author: Koyoharu Gotouge (ごとうげきよはる)
Serialization Period: 2016 to 2020 (Weekly Shonen Jump)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Dark Fantasy
Setting: Japan in the Taisho Period (1912–1926)

the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Universe

Era: Taisho Period (1912–1926)
The story takes place in Japan during the Taisho era, a time when Western influences entered and tradition mixed with modernity. This is reflected in characters’ costumes (Western-style uniforms under haori jackets) and props (such as Tanjiro’s letters), giving a unique fusion impression.
Demon Slayer Corps (Kisatsutai 鬼殺隊):
An unofficial organization established to hunt demons (Oni 鬼) who eat humans, consisting of several hundred members.
- Nichirin Blades (Nichirintō 日輪刀): The only weapons capable of killing demons, made from special steel. The blade color changes according to the user’s breathing style.
- Red Blade (Kakutō 赫刀): A phenomenon where the blade of a Nichirin sword glows red when certain conditions are met, suppressing the regenerative powers of demons.
- Kasugai Crows (Kasugai Karasu 鎹鴉): Talking crows assigned to each slayer for communication and information transmission.
- Total Concentration Breathing (Zenshūchū no Kokyū 全集中の呼吸): Core technique of the Demon Slayer Corps that amplifies the user’s physical abilities tremendously by focusing breathing skills to their limit. Various sword styles (“Breathing Styles”) derive from this technique.
- Demon Mark (Awa 痣): A mark appearing on those who reach the peak of total concentration breathing, significantly boosting physical ability but historically those who manifest the mark rarely live past 25 years of age.
- Transparent World (Sukitoru Sekai 透き通る世界): A state attained through breathing techniques allowing the slayer to see through opponents’ muscles and blood flow to predict movement and discover weaknesses.
- State of Selflessness (Muga no Kyōchi 無我の境地): A transcendental state where the slayer forgets themselves entirely, neutralizing an opponent’s intent to kill or their skills.
- Repetitive Movements (Hanpuku Dōsa 反復動作): A technique involving recalling anger or intense emotions to momentarily surge heart rate and body temperature; usable even without breathing techniques.
- Hashira (Pillars 柱): The nine elite swordsmen regarded as the pillars supporting the Demon Slayer Corps.
- In (Hidden 隠): Non-combatant support units handling rescue, post-battle cleanup, and intelligence gathering.
Demons (Kisatsuki 鬼):
Beings transformed from humans via Muzan Kibutsuji’s blood, who must consume humans to survive and increase their power.
- They can turn humans into demons akin to vampires and possess enormous combat power.
- They have extraordinary physical power and regenerative ability.
- Exposure to sunlight causes death.
- Can only be killed by decapitation with a Nichirin blade.
- Blood Demon Arts (Kekki Jutsu 血鬼術): Unique supernatural powers possessed individually by demons, reflecting their personalities and original traits.
- Twelve Kizuki (Jūnikizuki 十二鬼月): Muzan’s twelve strongest demons divided into Upper and Lower Moons, with Upper Moons being overwhelmingly stronger.
Blue Spider Lily (Aoi Higanbana 青い彼岸花):
A flower sought for centuries by Muzan and demons, believed to be the key to overcoming sunlight.
Other important concepts:
- Child of Flame (Kakushaku no Ko 赫灼の子): A person born with red hair and eyes, from a family controlling fire; considered fortunate but most lived tragic lives.
- Rare Blood (Kikei 血稀): Persons with a very rare blood type, highly nutritious for demons; one such blood can feed dozens of demons. Some rare bloods can intoxicate and weaken demons.
- Thread of Gaps (Suki no Ito 隙の糸): A state where opponents’ movement or defensive “gaps” look like threads; only strongest swordsmen can sense it.

Demon Slayer Charact

Kamado Family
- Tanjiro Kamado (竈門炭治郎): The protagonist. Uses Water Breathing styles, later evolves to Flame Breathing. Has a keen sense of smell.
- Nezuko Kamado (竈門禰豆子): Tanjiro’s younger sister turned demon, yet protects humans. Obtains immunity to sunlight.
- Takeso Kamado (Siblings): Tanjiro’s siblings (5 brothers and 1 sister) killed by demons.
Tanjiro’s Demon Slayer Corps Companions
- Zenitsu Agatsuma (我妻善逸): Uses Thunder Breathing. Usually timid but shows true strength when asleep.
- Inosuke Hashibira (嘴平伊之助): Uses Beast Breathing. Raised in the mountains, wild boy wearing a boar’s head.
- Kanao Tsuyuri (栗花落カナヲ): Uses Insect Breathing. Tanjiro’s junior who was attacked by demons during adolescence.

Demon Slayer Corps (Kisatsutai)

Hashira (Pillars):

Giyu Tomioka (冨岡義勇): User of Water Breathing. Acts as Tanjiro’s mentor.

Kyojuro Rengoku (煉獄杏寿郎): User of Flame Breathing. Active in the Mugen Train arc.

Tengen Uzui (宇髄天元): User of Sound Breathing. Former ninja.

Sanemi Shinazugawa (不死川実弥): User of Wind Breathing. Rough personality but strong.

Mitsuri Kanroji (甘露寺蜜璃): User of Love Breathing. A girl with great physical strength.

Gyomei Himejima (悲鳴嶼行冥): User of Stone Breathing. Blind but the strongest Hashira.

Muichiro Tokito (時透無一郎): User of Mist (Moon) Breathing. Genius boy.

Obanai Iguro (伊黒小芭内): User of Snake Breathing. Usually accompanied by snakes.

Shinobu Kocho (胡蝶しのぶ): User of Insect Breathing. Skilled in poison-based combat.

Other Demon Slayer Corps Members:

Murata (村田): Senior slayer to Tanjiro.

Kanae and Sumi: Younger sisters of Kanao Tsuyuri.

Supporters of the Demon Slayer Corps:

Kagaya Ubuyashiki (産屋敷耀哉): Leader of the Demon Slayer Corps. Kind-hearted.

Tamayo (珠世): A demon freed from Muzan’s control. Acts as a doctor.

Yushiro (愈史郎): A demon assisting Tamayo.

Demons (Oni)

King of Demons: Muzan Kibutsuji (鬼舞辻無惨)
Muzan Kibutsuji is the final boss of Demon Slayer and the cause of all tragedy. Born a weak human over a thousand years ago, he transformed himself into a demon to escape death. His greatest goal is to overcome his only weakness—sunlight—and achieve perfect immortality.
He is selfish, ruthless, and treats even his closest subordinates, the Twelve Kizuki, as mere tools. He compares himself to a “natural disaster” and insults the Demon Slayer Corps as “a group of lunatics.” Careful and cunning, he survived in hiding for more than a thousand years. Lacking empathy even in human life, he is a monster who disregards the lives of others.

Main Abilities – Blood Demon Arts (Kekki Jutsu):

Body Morphing: Generates blades or tentacles from his body to attack. Possesses super regeneration capable of regrowing even after decapitation.

Black Blood Thorns (Kokketu Kyoku 黒血棘): Creates sharp thorns from his black blood.

Shockwave: Destroys large areas with powerful shockwaves.

Transformation: Can disguise as a woman or child.

Upper Moon Demons (Kamisaki):
The strongest twelve demons under Muzan’s command, divided as Upper and Lower Moons. The Upper Moons are overwhelmingly powerful.
Upper Moons: Enmu (魇夢), Gyutaro (妓夫太郎) & Daki (堕姫), Hantengu (半天狗), Akaza (猗窩座), Doma (童磨), Kokushibo (黒死牟), among others.
The order of Upper Moon appearances in Demon Slayer:

Upper Moon Six – Daki & Gyutaro

Upper Moon Five – Akaza

Upper Moon Four – Hantengu & Nakime

Upper Moon Two – Doma

Upper Moon Three – Akaza

Upper Moon One – Kokushibo

Lower Moon Demons (Shimosaki):

Rui (累): The first opponent Tanjiro faces on Mt. Nagatsumori.

Other Lower Moons: Enmu (promoted to Upper Moon), Tamayo, Ubuyashiki, Kujira, Kamanue (鎌鼬), etc.

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba-: Sibling’s Bond Summary & Ending

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba Final Selection Arc (最終選別編 )

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Sibling Bond Arc

Tanjiro Kamado, a boy living happily with his poor but loving family, heads down to the village to sell charcoal before the Lunar New Year. On the way back, he is told that demons are appearing in the mountains, and at the urging of a local elder, he stays overnight at the elder’s house.

The next morning, upon returning home, Tanjiro is horrified to witness his family mercilessly slaughtered by demons. The only survivor is his sister Nezuko, whom he carries on his back while seeking a doctor in the village. However, Nezuko has already turned into a demon. As Tanjiro defends himself from Nezuko’s violent attacks, Giyu Tomioka, a Demon Slayer swordsman, arrives intending to slay Nezuko.

Despite being a demon, Nezuko protects her brother and refuses to harm him. Moved by this, Giyu refrains from killing her and advises Tanjiro to seek Sakonji Urokodaki, the trainer of Demon Slayers. Nezuko is fitted with a special bamboo muzzle that suppresses her demonic nature.

Training Period (2 Years)

Tanjiro and Nezuko reach Mount Kamado where Urokodaki resides and undergo harsh training but initially fail to perfect the vital Total Concentration Breathing technique. With help from Urokodaki’s former disciple, the spirit Gyutaro, and Makomo, they uncover a secret and finally master the breathing technique. Upon Urokodaki’s recommendation, Tanjiro participates in the Final Selection — a seven-day survival test on a mountain infested with demons — which he passes and officially becomes a Demon Slayer.

Demon Slayer Corps Enrollment and First Mission (About 2 Years Later)

Tanjiro receives a rare black Nichirin blade custom-made by the corps’ smith, Hotaru Haganezuka, suited to his blood. Nezuko awakens from a long sleep, and together they head to their first mission investigating the disappearance of children and teenagers near Nara Mountain, where they encounter powerful demons. The true cooperation and battle between Tanjiro and Nezuko begin.

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba-: Asakusa Arc (浅草編)

After completing his first mission, Tanjiro receives new orders from a communication crow and travels with Nezuko to the bustling district of Asakusa, Tokyo. Enchanted by the bright city lights and people, he detects the scent of the demon who slaughtered his family, chasing desperately to find a man who appears as a refined gentleman.

This man, Muzan Kibutsuji, calmly masquerades as a normal human, aware of the people around him. Confused, Tanjiro scratches Muzan, turning him into a demon which causes chaos. Muzan quietly departs.

Tanjiro’s refusal to kill the newly turned demon and attempt to restore his humanity impresses Tamayo, a demon on the run. Using her Blood Demon Arts, Tamayo restrains the new demon and takes Tanjiro and company to her hideout. Tamayo, a victim of Muzan herself, proposes an alliance to destroy Muzan.

However, Muzan senses this meeting and sends two of his strongest Upper Moon demons, Gyutaro and Daki, to exterminate Tamayo and Tanjiro’s group.

Struggling against the powerful blood demon arts of these two Upper Moon demons, Tanjiro and Nezuko barely endure thanks to the assistance of Tamayo’s assistant Yushiro and medicinal support from Tamayo. Tanjiro maximizes his Water Breathing technique and succeeds in decapitating Daki.

Meanwhile, Gyutaro falls into a trap and, under interrogation, names “Muzan.” Triggering a forbidden effect, he suffers a tragic demise as his body is crushed.

Tanjiro becomes enraged at Muzan’s ruthlessness, who shows no mercy even to his own subordinates. The hideout is discovered, forcing Tamayo to leave while declaring her protection over Nezuko, who has special abilities. Although worried about Nezuko’s safety, Tanjiro continues traveling with her.

Accepting Tamayo’s request, Tanjiro embarks on a mission to collect blood samples from the Twelve Kizuki demons (those with stronger Muzan blood), and he leaves Asakusa to begin this new task.

Asakusa Arc Review

The Asakusa arc marks Tanjiro’s first encounter with his archenemy Muzan and reveals the overwhelming strength of the antagonistic forces. At the same time, meeting Tamayo represents a crucial turning point, gaining new allies to oppose Muzan.

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba-:Tsuzumi Mansion Arc (鼓屋敷編 )

On the way to the mansion where demons are reported, Tanjiro finds a blonde boy, Zenitsu Agatsuma, crying and holding a girl, asking for marriage because he believes he will soon die. Tanjiro calms him down and releases the girl. Together, they head to the mansion called Nagayashiki Mansion. Along the way, they find a brother and sister devastated by the kidnapping of the elder brother by demons, and the four enter the mansion together.

However, the mansion’s owner, Kyogai, a former Lower Rank Six of the Twelve Kizuki, activates his Blood Demon Art, altering the layout of the mansion and separating the group into pairs scattered around.

At the heart of the incident is the younger brother who possesses the rare “rare blood” that, when consumed, grants the power equivalent to having eaten 50 to 100 humans, making him a target for many demons. Fierce battles erupt as many demons gather in the mansion.

In the midst of the chaos, Zenitsu suddenly breaks down mentally when faced with a boar-headed demon, but his true strength emerges from here. Although timid and fearful when awake, when he faints, he mistakes reality for a dream and unleashes 100% of his power, defeating demons one after another in his dreams.

Meanwhile, Tanjiro rescues the kidnapped elder brother and fights against the final boss demon, Kyogai. Despite being injured and struggling, he cleverly exploits the weakness of Kyogai’s Blood Demon Art “Drumming in the Mansion” using the flexibility of the Water Breathing technique and successfully defeats him.

After the battle, Tanjiro finds Zenitsu protecting and holding Nezuko. The boar-headed demon that was hitting him is revealed to be Inosuke Hashibira, the fifth recruit who descended the mountain the fastest during the final selection and who had missed meeting the others.

The injured trio of Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke follow directions from the crow to the “Demon Slayer Supporter’s House” where they receive treatment and rest.

Nagayashiki Mansion Arc Review

This arc is important as it shows Tanjiro no longer alone, meeting valuable comrades Zenitsu and Inosuke, forming the “main protagonist team” who will fight together going forward. It also highlights the power gap between the Demon Slayer Corps and demons through their first battle with a former Twelve Kizuki.

(By the way, in this arc there is a rare moment where Zenitsu falls for Nezuko.)

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mount Natagumo Arc (那田蜘蛛山編 )

Recovered from injuries, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke receive a new mission and head to Natagumo Mountain.

Leaving a terrified Zenitsu behind, Inosuke and Tanjiro enter the mountain first. They witness a dire situation where selected demon slayers sent ahead are either being controlled by blood or near annihilation.

Tanjiro and Inosuke fight fiercely against the spider demon family occupying the mountain. They first defeat the mother demon, but struggle against the stronger father demon. During battle, Tanjiro is thrown far away and Inosuke suffers a broken bone injury.

At this moment, the pillars Giyu Tomioka and Shinobu Kocho arrive to assist; Giyu kills the father demon with a single strike.

Later arriving Zenitsu encounters the elder spider demon, screams in terror, falls unconscious, but his real abilities awaken. He uses the Thunder Breathing technique “Thunderclap and Flash: Sixfold” to defeat the elder demon.

Tanjiro, thrown to another location, confronts the strongest enemy, Lower Rank Five Rui. Rui uses the powerful Blood Demon Art “Thread Techniques” and controls “family” to trap Tanjiro.

Tanjiro breaks his Nichirin Blade in a strike and nearly dies but is saved by Nezuko who suddenly emerges from a box.

Seeing the true family bond, Rui targets Nezuko, but despite their desperate struggle, Tanjiro and Nezuko are defeated and experience near-death experiences.

They recall the dance “Dance of the Fire God” performed by their father. Tanjiro awakens and decapitates Rui. Rui survives briefly as he first ties his neck with threads but is stopped by Giyu.

Before Tanjiro can greet, Shinobu suddenly attacks Nezuko who is now a demon. Giyu stops Shinobu, but Tanjiro is subdued by Shinobu’s disciple Kanao Tsuyuri.

Natagumo Mountain Arc Review

This arc marks the first clash of Tanjiro and his friends against the strongest Twelve Kizuki, making them keenly aware of their power gap. Tanjiro awakens the new powerful breathing style “Dance of the Fire God,” a crucial growth point. It also highlights the intensifying controversy about Nezuko’s status as a demon within the Demon Slayer Corps, becoming a major conflict axis for the story moving forward.

Kimetsu no Yaiba – Rehabilitation Training Arc (機能回復訓練編 )

Carrying the demon Nezuko is a serious violation of the Demon Slayer Corps’ rules, so Tanjiro faces a tribunal at the Ubuyashiki Residence, where all the Hashira have gathered. Tanjiro asserts that Nezuko never harms humans, but most Hashira disbelieve him and strongly recommend execution. Suddenly, Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira who hates demons, attacks Nezuko.

An enraged Tanjiro confronts Sanemi, nearly resulting in a massive fight, but Kagaya Ubuyashiki, the Demon Slayer Corps leader, intervenes and calms the situation. Ubuyashiki expresses willingness to accept Nezuko, but the Hashira oppose it vehemently. Tanjiro presents a letter from his master, Sakonji Urokodaki, pledging that if Nezuko harms anyone, he and Giyu Tomioka will be responsible and commit seppuku.

Despite Sanemi provoking Nezuko by showing his blood, she endures and avoids human blood, proving Tanjiro’s innocence. Afterwards, Ubuyashiki reveals to the Hashira the shocking truth that Tanjiro has encountered Muzan Kibutsuji and aims to begin a full Hashira meeting. Tanjiro resists, demanding Sanemi apologize before leaving but is restrained by Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito.

During this time, Ubuyashiki secretly tells Tanjiro to convey regards to Tamayo, surprising Tanjiro as he realizes Ubuyashiki knows his secret and Tamayo’s existence.

Following the tribunal, Tanjiro receives treatment at Shinobu Kocho’s Butterfly Mansion, where he reunites with Zenitsu and Inosuke. After full recovery, they undergo rehabilitation training, learning the continuous Total Concentration Breathing technique, dramatically enhancing their fighting abilities.

Review:
This arc is pivotal, focusing on the tribunal deciding Tanjiro and Nezuko’s fate in the Demon Slayer Corps. Ubuyashiki’s wise leadership and Nezuko’s revealed will lead to her becoming the first demon member of the Corps. Ubuyashiki introducing Tamayo sets the stage for the upcoming war against the Twelve Kizuki. The training at Butterfly Mansion strengthens the main trio’s foundation for growth.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Train Arc (無限列車編)

After fully recovering at Butterfly Mansion, Tanjiro inquires of Shinobu about the origins of Flame Breathing. Shinobu explains there is no Flame Breathing per se but introduces “Rengoku’s Breathing,” used by Kyojuro Rengoku.

Together with Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko, Tanjiro boards the Mugen Train to meet Rengoku. Tanjiro asks about the Flame Breathing origins, but Rengoku encourages him to become his disciple instead. Rengoku shares that many passengers and some Demon Slayer members have gone missing on this train.

Shortly after ticket inspection, they fall asleep due to the Blood Demon Art of Enmu, the Lower Moon One, who has infiltrated the train. Enmu’s minions attempt to destroy their mental cores, but Nezuko burns the demon ropes, waking the group.

The group begins protecting passengers and searches for Enmu’s body merged with the train. Tanjiro and Inosuke reach the engine, fall into hallucinations of peaceful life with deceased families but awaken when Tanjiro hears his father’s voice. With Inosuke’s help, Tanjiro beheads Enmu and rescues all passengers.

Immediately after Enmu’s defeat, Upper Moon Three, Akaza, appears and attacks Tanjiro. Rengoku arrives to intercept, engaging Akaza in a fierce battle. However, overwhelmed by Akaza’s power and blood demon arts, Rengoku suffers mortal wounds and dies.

As dawn breaks, Akaza tries to flee but Tanjiro angrily throws his Nichirin blade, stabbing Akaza’s neck, shouting, “You are the loser!” to honor Rengoku. Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu mourn deeply after hearing Rengoku’s last words.

Meanwhile, Muzan Kibutsuji learns of Akaza’s failure to eliminate a single Pillar and orders the destruction of the entire Demon Slayer Corps. Akaza recalls Tanjiro’s defiant shout in fury, destroys his Nichirin blade, and awaits another opportunity.

Tanjiro visits Rengoku’s family to deliver his belongings but faces hostility from his father, Shinjuro, who criticizes the son’s death. Shinjuro later calms down after seeing Rengoku’s earrings and intervened by Tanjiro and Rengoku’s younger brother, Senjurou.

Tanjiro reads Rengoku’s damaged notes, gaining little information, but receives the tsuba (hand guard) of Rengoku’s sword. Angered at losing his sword, Tanjiro is chased by the swordsmith Hotaru Haganezuka.

Review:
The Mugen Train arc marks a profound tragedy: while defeating Lower Moon One, the corps loses the vital Flame Hashira, Rengoku Kyojuro. Tanjiro witnesses the overwhelming power of Upper Moon Three, Akaza, fueling his desire to grow stronger. This arc signals the beginning of full-scale war between Muzan, the Twelve Kizuki, and the Demon Slayer Corps. It is the highest-grossing arc of the Demon Slayer series and arguably the most sorrowful.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc (遊郭編 )

Four months after Rengoku’s death, Tengen Uzui learns demons are hiding in the Yoshiwara red-light district and sends his three wives undercover. When contact is lost, he plans to bring female corps members Aoi and Naho from Butterfly Mansion for additional support.

Kanao and Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke argue about this but eventually agree that the three men will go undercover instead. They receive the mission briefing at the “House of Lotus Flowers” and forcibly dress up as women to infiltrate different parts of the district under Tengen’s orders.

While gathering intelligence, Zenitsu discovers the highest-ranked courtesan, Warabi-hime, in his assigned district is Daki, an Upper Moon Six demon. Zenitsu is captured by Daki.

Inosuke and two of Tengen’s wives come to his rescue. When Inosuke and Zenitsu fight Daki, Tengen joins, sparking a full battle.

Meanwhile, Tanjiro finds Daki and confronts her. Nezuko appears to protect Tanjiro and attacks Daki. She senses the scent of Muzan, who killed her family, and fiercely battles. However, unable to consume human flesh, Nezuko’s power is insufficient. Daki retaliates, severing Nezuko’s limbs.

Daki mocks Nezuko and attempts to kill her with sunlight, but Nezuko suddenly awakens. She regenerates limbs with Upper Moon level regeneration, grows leaf patterns and horns all over her body, and overwhelms Daki. However, lost in rage and regeneration, Nezuko attacks civilians, only stopping after Tanjiro sings his mother’s lullaby.

Just as Tengen arrives and beheads Daki, Upper Moon Six demon Gyutaro appears and regenerates Daki’s head. The pair function as “two halves of one” demon.

In the second battle, Tengen is poisoned by Gyutaro’s sickle, and all corps members are severely injured, lowering morale. Tanjiro fights on without giving up. Miraculously, the fallen companions revive. Tengen stops his heart to slow poison spread; Inosuke shifts organ position to avoid fatal wounds; Zenitsu awakens and attacks Daki.

Ultimately, Tanjiro and Tengen simultaneously behead Gyutaro while Inosuke and Zenitsu behead Daki, killing both Upper Moon demons.

In the aftermath, injured Inosuke and Tengen are healed by Nezuko’s Blood Demon Art. Tanjiro collects Upper Moon blood samples to hand to Tamayo. Tengen loses an eye and an arm and retires from the Hashira but survives with his three wives’ support.

Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke embrace each other in tears of victory as the story concludes.

Kimetsu no Yaiba Swordsmith Village Arc (刀鍛冶の里編 )

Enraged by the deaths of Daki and Gyutaro, Muzan Kibutsuji summons the remaining Upper Moon demons and chastises them. At this time, Gyutaro, the spy among the Upper Moons, reports the location of the Swordsmith Village to Muzan. Muzan immediately dispatches Hantengu and Gyutaro to the village.

Meanwhile, Tanjiro, severely injured in the Red-Light District battle, awakens and begins rehabilitation. However, his sword is badly damaged. Hotaru Haganezuka, the swordsmith, angry, leaves a note saying she will no longer make swords and disappears. Tanjiro heads to the secret Swordsmith Village to find and apologize to her.

At the village, elder Tetsuchin informs Tanjiro about Hotaru’s disappearance and encourages him to stay until she returns and to prepare a new sword. Tanjiro meets Mitsuri Kanroji and a cold Muichiro Tokito, who is training a puppet modeled after Sengoku-era breathing users. Tanjiro tries to stop Muichiro from forcing the puppet’s repair but succumbs to his overwhelming strength.

Watching Muichiro fight the puppet, Tanjiro recognizes the puppet’s face as being identical to the “user of the Sun Breathing” he saw in a dream. With Kotetsu’s help, Tanjiro undergoes intense training, reaches an advanced level of prediction called “Tsū,” and destroys the puppet. Inside the puppet, a rusty ancient sword is revealed just as Hotaru returns, declaring she will repair the sword.

Suddenly, the village is attacked by the Upper Moon demons, Hantengu and Gyutaro. The Demon Slayer Corps and swordsmiths face the worst crisis yet. Muichiro battles Gyutaro and is trapped by his Blood Demon Art, nearly drowning. Tanjiro’s words — “Acts for others ultimately benefit oneself” — inspire Muichiro to escape with Kotetsu’s aid. Awakening the Demon Mark, Muichiro singlehandedly defeats Gyutaro.

Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Genya confront Hantengu. Though the demon terrifies them with his splitting technique, Tanjiro uses a secret Thunder Breathing skill learned from Zenitsu and fiercely charges, cutting off Hantengu’s head. However, Hantengu survives, revealing a tongue etched with “Grudge” and making a last desperate move.

At this moment, Hotaru throws Tanjiro a new sword through Muichiro. With the new blade, Tanjiro fuses Sun and Thunder Breathing into “Enbu Issen” (Circle Dance, Single Flash), decapitating Hantengu completely.

As dawn rises and Nezuko begins to burn from sunlight exposure, Tanjiro is torn between saving Nezuko or protecting the swordsmiths. Nezuko sacrifices herself to protect her brother and leaves him. Tanjiro screams but musters his final strength to find and destroy Hantengu’s core heart.

Despairing that he has lost Nezuko, Tanjiro turns to find her standing in sunlight, having overcome the sun’s power and gained the ability to speak. With all incidents resolved, Tanjiro obtains a repaired new sword and leaves the village with his companions.

Meanwhile, from Hantengu’s perspective, Muzan sees Nezuko overcoming sunlight and, fulfilling his thousand-year goal, gathers all demons at the Infinity Castle to prepare for the final battle.

Kimetsu no Yaiba Hashira Training Arc (柱稽古編 )

Preparing for the final battle at the Infinity Castle, the Demon Slayer Corps overcomes wounds and losses from Upper Moon fights. A ‘Training Camp’ involving all members under the guidance of the Hashira begins, the last and greatest training before the final battle.

Recovered Tanjiro receives a new sword fitted with Rengoku’s sword’s tsuba from Hotaru Haganezuka. The much darker and sharper blade excites him.

Only some train earnestly. Muichiro, haunted by Upper Moon trauma, wanders, and Obanai Iguro refuses to train, doubting himself. Tanjiro persistently persuades Obanai to open up and go to the training ground.

During grueling training, Tanjiro reunites with Inosuke and struggles with Obanai’s sensory training. Sanemi Shinazugawa’s harsh training involves breaking up fights between Tanjiro and his brother Genya. As a result, Tanjiro and Genya receive a ban on close contact with Sanemi.

Simultaneously, preparations continue at headquarters. Kagaya Ubuyashiki calls Tamayo and orders Shinobu to hasten the development of an antidote against Muzan. Unable to train, Shinobu entrusts a secret strategy to Kanao.

During training, Zenitsu suddenly falls silent after receiving a crow’s letter. When Tanjiro questions him, he says only that his purpose is clear.

While everyone surpasses their limits and grows, shadows loom closer.

Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Arc (無限城編 )

Using Nakime’s Blood Demon Art, Muzan appears at the Demon Slayer headquarters and tries to kill Kagaya Ubuyashiki, but it’s a trap. Ubuyashiki weakens Muzan by destroying the mansion and summons Tamayo, a demon who hates Muzan, to administer a medicine that can turn demons back into humans.

Gyomei Himejima’s attack and Nakime’s arts pull all Demon Slayers and Muzan into the Infinity Castle. Muzan rages and vows to annihilate the Demon Slayers. Tanjiro vows to defeat Muzan.

Scattered inside the Infinity Castle, Demon Slayers battle the Upper Moons one by one. Insect Hashira Shinobu Kocho fights Upper Moon Two, Doma. Poison fails to harm Doma, resulting in Shinobu’s death as she is absorbed by him. This was a strategy where she poisoned herself to weaken Doma. Her sister Kanao screams upon seeing this.

At the same time, Thunder Breathing user Zenitsu Agatsuma reunites with his former master, Upper Moon Six Gyutaro, fighting with fury and vengeance. He decapitates Gyutaro using his original Thunder Breathing technique, “Thunderclap and Flash—Sixfold.” Severely injured, Zenitsu receives treatment and meets his master in the afterlife, receiving forgiveness and encouragement.

Tanjiro Kamado and Giyu Tomioka face Upper Moon Three, Akaza. Tanjiro struggles against overwhelming power but masters the Transparent World to sense Akaza’s attacks and strike his neck. Akaza attempts to regenerate, seeing a vision of his human wife, Koyuki, regaining memories and regretting his actions. He ceases regeneration and vanishes. (In the Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie, this is the climax where Akaza is destroyed.)

Kanao Kocho and Inosuke Hashibira battle the poisoned Doma again. Weakened by Shinobu’s sacrifice poison, they finally defeat Doma with cooperative attacks.

The most intense battle begins against Upper Moon One, Kokushibo.

In the red-moonlit Infinity Castle, Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito encounters Kokushibo, who quickly analyzes Muichiro’s abilities with his Transparent World. Kokushibo reveals his former human name as Michikatsu Tsugikuni and that Muichiro is his direct descendant. He was a user of Sun Breathing and twin brother of the first Sun Breathing user, Yoriichi Tsugikuni.

Kokushibo effortlessly evades Muichiro’s attacks, praising Muichiro’s “Mist Breathing—Oboro” technique as elegant, but retaliates by severing Muichiro’s left arm with Moon Breathing’s first form “Dark Moon—Night Palace.” Despite injury, Muichiro continues fighting but Kokushibo disarms and pins him.

Kokushibo acknowledges Muichiro’s talent, calls him his descendant, and encourages him to become a demon for Muzan.

Suddenly, Genya Shinazugawa interrupts and shoots at Kokushibo. Kokushibo skillfully cuts off Genya’s left arm holding the gun and right arm holding his sword. Genya, despite his body splitting in two, survives due to his special constitution. As Kokushibo tries to behead him, Sanemi Shinazugawa, Genya’s older brother, appears and stops him.

Seeing the Shinazugawa brothers, Kokushibo says “How nostalgic” mysteriously. Sanemi furiously attacks Kokushibo but is skillfully countered. Sanemi is severely injured by Kokushibo’s Moon Breathing sixth form “Upper Moon—Eternal,” but Kokushibo briefly stumbles after tasting Sanemi’s rare “demonic constitution” blood. Sanemi tries to counterattack but only fuels Kokushibo’s fighting spirit. Just as Sanemi faces despair, Gyomei Himejima arrives.

Gyomei, with his incredibly trained body and special Nichirin sword, stirs Kokushibo’s fighting spirit. Although initially struggling against Gyomei’s overwhelming strength, Kokushibo saves himself by breaking and regenerating his sword, wounding Gyomei with Moon Breathing’s second form “Jewelled Moon.”

When Gyomei releases his Demon Mark, Kokushibo laments the legend that those with the mark don’t live past 25 years, but Gyomei points out Kokushibo himself exceeds 25 years, greatly disturbing the demon. Kokushibo attempts to kill Gyomei but Sanemi releases his Demon Mark too, turning the fight into a two-on-one.

Cooperative Attack & Final Battle

Gyomei and Sanemi temporarily push Kokushibo back, but he unleashes his full power, launching relentless attacks from Moon Breathing forms one to four, severely wounding Sanemi and cornering Gyomei.

Gyomei, having reached the Transparent World, and a barely recovered Muichiro trap Kokushibo’s movements. Kokushibo tries to defeat all three Hashira with Moon Breathing’s sixteenth form “Moon Soul: Silver Chain,” but Genya’s Blood Demon Art bullets absorb the attack and turn to wood, binding him. Seizing this chance, Gyomei and Sanemi attack Kokushibo’s neck.

Final Counterattack Facing Death

The three Hashira do not give up. Muichiro’s burning blade pierces Kokushibo’s abdomen, and Genya’s blood demon art inhibits regeneration. Sanemi and Gyomei cooperate to decapitate Kokushibo, with Gyomei striking the head with chains. Kokushibo barely defends himself with blades he generates.

Seeing Muichiro’s flaming red blade, Kokushibo recalls his brother’s words:
“Brother, we are not great. One day, others even stronger than us will be born, and ultimately reach the same place.”

With Sanemi’s additional attack and Gyomei’s chains, Kokushibo’s head is severed and crushed.

Final Awakening, Collapse, and Monologue

Kokushibo cries out that he cannot lose even after being beheaded, stopping the head’s bleeding and regenerating it. He mutates into a more horrid form and declares that sunlight is his only weakness as he launches a final attack.

Seeing his monstrous form reflected in Sanemi’s blade shocks him. He recalls his childhood, his brother’s wish to become the second-strongest samurai, and sinks into self-loathing. Following a stab from Muichiro’s blade, his regeneration collapses completely.

Realizing his true desire, Kokushibo utters his last words:
“No, I just wanted to become you, Yoriichi…
I abandoned my home, wife, children, humanity, and even my descendants and samurai status, yet I still failed to reach where you are.
What was I born for? Tell me, Yoriichi.”

His body turns to ash, leaving only a wooden flute he gave Yoriichi as a child.

Tragic End

Kokushibo’s soul never reunites with anyone, condemned to eternal torment in hell without returning to human form, contrasting with his brother Yoriichi’s reincarnation living happily in the modern era.

(This corresponds to the second chapter and final boss disappearance in the Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle movie.)

Additional Battles Inside Infinity Castle

Obanai Iguro and Mitsuri Kanroji face Nakime, struggling with her spatial Blood Demon Art. Assisted by Tamayo’s aide Yushiro, they deceive Nakime by spreading false information about their deaths to Muzan.

After Muzan kills Nakime, Yushiro controls her body to collapse Infinity Castle and send survivors back to the surface.

Final Battle and Resolution

Upon returning above ground, Muzan reveals his true form and declares his intent to annihilate the Demon Slayer Corps. Thanks to the blood Muzan injected into Tanjiro, Tanjiro falls into a desperate situation.

Tamayo’s cat Chachamaru brings antidotes; Iguro awakens his Red Nichirin Blade; Inosuke, Zenitsu, and Kanao join, and the other pillars awaken their Red blades, cooperating in the attack.

Despite Muzan’s overwhelming speed causing them near defeat, his rapid aging from Tamayo’s medicine and exposure to sunlight transforms him into a giant baby, which he tries to escape on by swallowing Tanjiro.

The Demon Slayer Corps’ desperate stop and Tanjiro’s resistance from inside, combined with sunlight exposure, finally annihilate Muzan.

During this battle, Gyomei Himejima, Obanai Iguro, and Mitsuri Kanroji die.

Before dying, Muzan injects his blood into Tanjiro to transform him into the “Demon King.” Tanjiro attacks his comrades but is restored to human form by Kanao’s antidote, the souls of deceased family and friends, and living companions’ assistance.

Kimetsu no Yaiba Ending Sunrise Countdown Arc (決戦の時編 / 日の出決戦編)

In the present Reiwa era, direct descendants of the Kamado family, Kanata Kamado and Tanjirou Kamado, appear.

Kanata, the older brother, resembles great-grandmother Kanao, while the younger brother Tanjirou resembles great-grandfather Tanjirou.

Unlike his disciplined great-grandfather and responsible brother, Tanjirou is a habitual late riser.

Seeking perfect attendance, Tanjirou uses his extraordinary physical abilities to jump from the sixth floor and leap between buildings on his way to school.

Recognized for his strength, Rengoku Tojurou, believed to be Rengoku Kyojuro’s reincarnation, invites him to join the Kendo club, but Tanjirou declines due to his love of sleep.

His reckless commute catches the attention of the police (suspected to be reincarnations of Sanemi and Genya) and brings shame to his family.

Later, he befriends Inosuke’s great-grandson Aoba at a park and aspires to become a zookeeper.

Meanwhile, Tanjirou’s earrings and Nichirin sword are preserved as family heirlooms with photos from the Demon Slayer Corps’ disbandment.

Past Hashira also appear as descendants or reincarnations in the modern world: Gyomei Himejima as a kindergarten teacher, Tengen Uzui as a gymnast, Sanemi and Genya Shinazugawa as police officers working together, Giyu Tomioka as an elementary student, Obanai Iguro and Mitsuri Kanroji as a married couple, Shinobu Kocho with her sister Kanae as high school girls, and Muichiro Tokito begins a new life as an infant along with his twin brother Yuichiro.

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