Summary
Demon SlayerHashira Training Arcfinally concluded with eight fantastic episodes, delivering more than aesthetics this time. This season of the anime featured anime-original scenes, which some viewers may call fillers, that have perhaps redefined the meaning of the word. Ufotable’sDemon Slayerused “filler” to bring depth and closure to the characters, delivering emotions andstorylines that arguably should have been in the manga from the start.
The studio managed to do all that whilemaintaining the consistent quality of the anime it is known for. Arguably, the animation has only reached new heights in the newestDemon Slayerseason. With a blend of anime-original scenes and captivating, aesthetically pleasing battles,Demon Slayer Hashira Training Arcwas the series' best season, and these moments are mere examples to prove that.
10Muzan’s Dramatic Entrance
Episode #7,‘Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima’
Demon Slayer’s Hashira Training Arcin the manga was merely ten chapters, so when it was announced that a whole season would be given to this perceived small narrative, many wondered how Ufotable would accomplish it.The fantastic eight episodes have more than answered this question. The studio managed to enhance even the smallest sequence this season, but by far the fans' favorite has beenMuzan’s entrance to the Ubuyashiki mansion.
Muzan’s walk to the Ubuyashiki mansion was intentionally dramatic, unparalleled by any other villain’s reveal in the anime universe. Fans on the internet have even compared it to the exaggerated reveals often seen in Indian soap operas. This distinctive moment from theDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcis unforgettable, and fans will undoubtedly recallMuzan Kibutsuji’s entrance for decades to come.
9Tanjiro’s Persuasion to Get Giyu to Join the Training
Episode #2, ‘Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka’s Pain"
Tanjiro and Giyu Tomioka shared a special bond that grew stronger with each encounter, which is likely why Ubuyashiki entrusted Tanjiro with the task of convincing the Water Hashira to join the training. The narrative that followed, with Tanjiro’s heartfelt efforts to persuade Giyu, was heartwarming and heartbreaking. Despite numerous challenges, Tanjiro’s unwavering determination eventually led Giyu to reveal whyhe doesn’t consider himself a true Hashira.
This pivotal moment also reminds the fans ofthe mysterious characterthat helped Tanjiro overcome his first-ever training. Mirroring the situation when Tanjiro sees Rengoku die, Tanjiro helps Giyu see beyond his grief and sorrow, encouraging him to honor Sabito’s legacy by accepting his role as a Hashira. Although this scene may seem small compared to other events from this season, it is a significant moment for Giyu’s much-needed character development while also reminding fans that Hashiras are just as human.
8Tanjiro Completing His Hashira Training
Episode #6, “The Strongest of the Demon Slayer Corps”
The main premise of this season was about the members of the Demon Slayer Corpstraining to get close to a Hashira level, and it is structured well with the protagonist crossing each hurdle. The last part of this training regimen is to move a very heavy boulder, which none have done so far except for Genya, with Tanjiro also facing many challenges to move it. Surprisingly, Genya Shinazugawa aids Tanjiro by advising him to recall memories that get him worked up.
It is revealed thatTanjiro is motivated by recalling a happy memoryof his family and Rengoku’s motivational words, “Set Your Heart Ablaze”. This eventually helps Tanjiro move the heavy boulder and complete his Hashira training. This moment from theDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcis pivotal, as it officially elevates Tanjiro to a level close to the Hashira, preparing him for the final battle against Muzan.
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7Closure For the Sound Hashira
Episode #3, “Fully Recovered Tanjiro Joins the Hashira Training”
One of the reasons theDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcstands out is the inclusion of anime-original scenes that enrich the story beyond what was presented in the manga. One of the first anime-original scenes from this season serves the greater purpose of giving closure to Tengen Uzui’s character. The Sound Hashira was highlighted in the manga for not more than two pages in this particular arc. However, Ufotable expanded his role, giving him a moment to shine and express an emotional response.
This episode exploresTengen’s emotional response after retirement, which reveals that the Sound Hashira has regrets. Tengen’s lovely wives express concern for their spouse, particularly about his nightmares after stepping down. The training regimen allowed Uzui to pass on his legacy to the younger generation and in doing so, Tengen achieves a sense of closure that arguably should have been included in the original story.
6Mist, Wind, And Snake Hashira’s Training
Episode #4,“To Bring a Smile to One’s Face”
Episode #4 ofDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcfeatured more of the added anime-original scenes by Ufotable. This episode emphasizes that the Hashiras’ resilience and hard work are key reasons why they hold their esteemed titles. Muichiro Tokito, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Obanai Iguro exemplify this dedication bytraining exclusively at nightafter spending the entire day training members of the Demon Slayer Corps.
Despite lasting less than two minutes, this scene features stunning animation while delving into the emotional depths of all three Hashira. The fact that this particular moment is Ufotable’s original addition makes it even more captivating. This leaves fans eagerly anticipating what the studio has in store for the Infinity Castle Arc, which is already compelling in the manga.
5The Stone Hashira’s Backstory
Backstories are a major part ofDemon Slayer, and this season of the series doesn’t disappoint in delivering compelling narratives. Among the many poignant backstories this season, thestory of the Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima, stands out.Gyomei experienced two heart-wrenching betrayalsby the children he cherished most, events that nearly led to his execution.
This pivotal backstory expresses the real reason behind the Stone Hashira’s distrust of others, particularly of children. Considering that Gyomei is blind and devotes himself to protecting others, what he went through is utterly tragic. Despite this, the Stone Hashira compliments Tanjiro’s honesty when the protagonist reveals that he couldn’t have acted the way he did if it wasn’t for Nezuko.
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The Demon Slayers and Hashira take on their most formidable enemies, the Twelve Kizuki in Muzan’s Infinity Castle, in one of the story’s best arcs.
4The Most Heartwarming Anime Original Scene: Paper Plane Competition
Most of the anime-original scenes that were added in this season ofDemon Slayerwere to extend the length of perceived short content. However, an anime-original scene from the fourth episode is much more significant than it is getting credit for. In this scene, Tanjiro takes it upon himself to give the younger members of the Demon Slayer Corps a break in a very heartwarming manner.
The protagonist challenges Muichiro in a paper plane flying competition, which eventually sees other Demon Slayers join in on the fun, fulfilling the purpose of taking a break. On a deeper scale, this lighthearted moment fromDemon Slayeralso teaches a valuable lesson:taking short breaks in between working hard is necessary, as it can help one discover new strengths during these pauses.
3Ubuyashiki’s Plan To Trap Muzan
Episode 8, “The Hashira Unite”
Kagaya Ubuyashiki’s role inDemon Slayerhas been perplexing, and his authority over the Hashiras has often been questioned due to his frailty. However, the finale of theDemon Slayer HashiraTraining Arcrevealswhy Ubuyashiki was a key character. The master of Hashiras also possessed the power to see the future, which eventually helped him lay a significant trap against Muzan.
This trap is depicted very well in the finale, with Ufotable delivering stellar and explosive animation. The encounter between Muzan and Ubuyashiki has laid the foundation for the final battle ofDemon Slayer, some of which had already been teased. Thanks to a trap that surely has infected Muzan in some way, Ubuyashiki’s plan will ultimately aid the demon slayers in their quest for victory over the villain.
2Gyomei and Muzan’s Brief Yet Thrilling Encounter
Besides the stellar animation and heartwarming tales,Demon Slayer is also renowned for featuring amazing and thrilling battles. Therefore, it’s no surprise that one of the standout moments in the fourth season highlights this specialty. Gyomei Himejima, the strongest of the Hashira, is finally seen in action against none other than the series' most formidable villain, Muzan.
It was a brief moment, but this thrilling encounter showcasedthe immense strength of both the Hashira and Muzan. Even while restrained, Muzan had the Stone Hashira on the defensive as soon as he recognized the threat. This scene is a clear tease from Ufotable, hinting at theepic battles that the upcoming trilogy might feature.
1The Hashira Unite
The best moment inDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcis none other than the Hashira uniting at the blown-up Ubuyashiki mansion and then dropping into Infinity Castle. Fan or not, this scene will get any viewer’s heart racing and rooting for the Hashira to avenge Ubuyashiki and take down Muzan, once and for all.
Hearing Gyomei’s cry for war against Muzan, each Hashira, and Tanjiro are ready to strike down the villain with their attacks. However, Muzan had ensnared a trap of his own for the demon slayers, sparking an all-out war as every fighter is drawn into the Infinity Castle. Ufotbale’s stellar job in the animation for this scene solidifieswhy theDemon Slayer Hashira Training Arcstands out as the best season yet in the series.
