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Rurouni Kenshin

Rurouni Kenshin

るろうに剣心 明治剣客浪漫譚

8.5(798)1996Ended3 Seasons
Action & AdventureAnimationComedy

Overview

The Meiji Era was one of great renewal for Japan, where swords and killing were outlawed. However, many survivors from the time of Revolution still live, lurking in the shadows and waiting for a chance to use their killing blades again. Only Kenshin Himura, formerly one of the most brutal of killers, hopes to keep his swordsman's honor and still live in the new era.

Score: 8.5TMDB user rating

Seasons

Season 1

Wandering Samurai

27 episodes · 1996

Episode 1The Handsome Swordsman of Legend: A Man who Fights for Love

A mysterious wanderer known as Kenshin is taken at the Kamiya Kasshin Dojo, a martial arts school run by a young woman named Kaoru.

1996-01-1025

Episode 2Kid Samurai: A Big Ordeal and a New Student

Following an encounter with a young pickpocket named Yahiko, Kaoru risks her own freedom to gain his from some local gangsters.

1996-01-1725

Episode 3Swordsman of Sorrow: The Man Who Slays His Past

After reining in some renegade police officers, Kenshin is recognized as the Samurai whose bravery helped establish the Meiji Era and is asked to rejoin the army.

1996-01-2425

Episode 4Bad! Introducing Sanosuke, Fighter-for-hire

Gohei enlists a vicious street-fighter known as Sanosuke to seek revenge against Kenshin. And even though Kenshin exposes Gohei's plan, Sanosuke makes it clear that the two of them will fight each other one day.

1996-01-3125

Episode 5The Reverse-blade Sword vs. the Zanbatou: Beyond the Battle

After accepting Sanosuke's challenge, Kenshin encourages him to release his anger towards the corrupt Royalist forces.

1996-02-0725

Episode 6The Appearance of Kurogasa: Visitor from the Shadows

With a ruthless ex-Samurai killing high ranking politicians, the Chief of Police asks Kenshin to catch him. But as Kenshin confronts the deadly Jin-nai Udo, Kaoru's efforts to stop the battle end with her kidnapping.

1996-02-1425

Episode 7Deathmatch under the Moon! Protect the One You Love

After kidnapping Kaoru, the ruthless Jin-nai Udo draws Kenshin into the fight he's been seeking for years. Though Kenshin tries to resist, Jin-nai's powerful spell over Kaoru leaves him no other choice.

1996-02-2125

Episode 8A New Battle! The Mysterious Beauty From Nowhere

When local gangsters threaten the life of a beautiful woman, Kenshin and Sanosuke step in to save her.

1996-02-2825

Episode 9The Strongest Group of Ninjas: The Horrible Oniwaban Group

Though her medical knowledge has saved Yahiko's life, Sansosuke suspects Megumi of producing the opium responsible for a close friend's death.

1996-03-0625

Episode 10Aoshi: Someone so Beautiful it's Frightening

Having pledged to save Megumi, the Peace Force must first take on a band of ruthless drug dealing mobsters. But when a rift inside the gang leads to a change in leadership, Kenshin must confront a fighter whose powers he's underestimated.

1996-03-1325

Episode 11Farewell, the Strongest Men: The Clash of Light and Shadow

Kenshin defeats a local mob's most powerful fighter, only to then face a gang leader who's determined to spread powerful new guns across Japan.

1996-04-2425

Episode 12Birth of a Boy Swordsman: The Battle of First Apprentice Yahiko

When a criminal gang threatens a young girl he loves, Yahiko seeks Kenshin's advice on how to defend her in a lopsided fight.

1996-05-0125

Episode 13Strive for the Grand Championship: Toramaru's Sumo Battle Log!

After jealous harassment forces an aspiring young man out of a sumo wrestling school, Kaoru steps in to take over his training.

1996-05-0825

Episode 14Save a Small Life: The Challenge of the Beautiful Doctor, Megumi

After a shady faith healer discredits her medical skills, Megumi's patients abandon her. And once a worried family panics and pays the phony shaman to heal their sick daughter, Megumi must intervene in order to save the young girl's life.

1996-05-1525

Episode 15Assassination Group of Fire: Jinpuu Squad on the Run

A group radicals intent on assassinating political leaders attempt to recruit a local teacher into their cause. After finding that Heihachiro is a former foe who's now dedicated his life to helping children, Kenshin steps in to repel the assassins.

1996-05-2225

Episode 16A Promise from the Heart: The Secret Technique of the Shiden Renga Blade

After saving Heihachiro's life, Kenshin sets out to stop the teacher's misguided former student from being used as a pawn in a game of political corruption.

1996-06-0525

Episode 17Fly to Your Dreams: The Adventures of Marimo, the Human Bullet

Kenshin protects a circus ringmaster and his talented human cannonball daughter from the threats of a jealous competitor.

1996-06-1225

Episode 18Run, Yahiko: Get the Reverse-blade Sword Back!

After stopping a restaurant robbery, Yahiko's boastfulness lands him in trouble with Kenshin's old foe, Gohei Hiruma. And once Yahiko agrees to a fight, Gohei uses the opportunity to steal Kenshin's Reverse Edged Sword.

1996-06-1925

Episode 19Raijuta's Ambition: Dream of a Forbidden Kingdom

While on vacation at the home of Dr. Gensai's niece, Kenshin and company attracts the attention of a wealthy but arrogant boy who wants to learn the art of swordfighting.

1996-06-2625

Episode 20Revival of the Shinko Style: The Technique Which Heralds a Storm

Though Kenshin tries to warn him of the bad influence, Yutaro continues to believe in Raijuta, unaware that the renegade is using him plot his revolution. So, when he's told that the government is out to stop him, Yutaro sneaks away to warn Raijuta.

1996-07-1025

Episode 21The Dissolution of a Nightmare: Raijuta's Ambition Concludes

After learning the truth behind Raijuta's duplicitous plan, an injury sidelines Yutaro, leaving Kenshin to fight the renegade Samurai alone.

1996-07-2125

Episode 22First Train Ride: Danger on a Runaway Locomotive!

During a train trip to Yokohama, Kenshin and his friends must save a wealthy English passenger from being robbed by thieves.

1996-07-3125

Episode 23Sanosuke's Betrayal: The Fateful Reunion

An artist's work leads Sanosuke to a reunion with an old army comrade, Tsukioka. But when his old friend wants him to join in avenging the death of their former leader, Sanosuke must stop him.

1996-08-1425

Episode 24Midnight Battle: Sanosuke Verses Kenshin Revisited

Following a lavish party at the dojo, Sanosuke can no longer resist joining his old army troop's plot to punish the government. However, in an effort to stop them, Kenshin is forced to take on Sanosuke.

1996-08-2125

Episode 25The Crimson Pirate: Kenshin and Kaoru Separated!

In order to earn money for their dojo, the Peace Force signs on to help protect a merchant ship from pirates. However, to keep Kaoru from falling into the hands of the pirate's female leader, Shura, Kenshin offers himself in exchange.

1996-08-2825

Episode 26Lightning Incarnate: The Noble and Mysterious Female Pirate, Shura

After Kenshin's kidnapping, a bond begins to develop between him and Shura. However, while Shura is confident in the loyalty of her crew, the profits to be made from dealing opium draws them into a mutinous plan.

1996-09-0425

Episode 27Burn, Island of Terror: The Crimson Pirate Chapter Concludes

After her trusted colleagues betray Shura, it's left up to Kenshin to save her life and stop the pirate's opium smuggling scheme.

1996-10-1625

Season 2

Legend of Kyoto

35 episodes · 1996

Episode 1Prelude to the Impending Fight: The Shadow of the Wolf Draws Near

A persistent nightmare comes true when Kenshin's old enemy, the former leader of a shadowy anti-Royalist organization, is hired to assassinate him.

1996-10-3025

Episode 2Strongest Opponent From the Past: Merciless Fangs Strike!

Saito sets a trap for Kenshin by enlisting another assassin in his plan. And once Kenshin repels the accomplice, he's left to take on his old rival.

1996-11-0625

Episode 3A Devil of Vengeance: Makoto Shishio's Plot

After stopping a fatal battle with Hajime Saito, a top government official asks Kenshin's help in killing a shadowy assassin who's threatening the future of the regime.

1996-11-1325

Episode 4A Wish Unrequited: Kenshin Departs

While preparing to give his decision on helping to kill Shishio, Kenshin learns of the Home Minister's murder.

1996-11-2725

Episode 5Change Tears to Courage: Kaoru Kamiya's Choice

Following Kenshin's departure from the dojo, everyone, and especially Kaoru, are sad at being left behind. And while Saito tries to dissuade Sanosuke from following him, Megumi sends Kaoru to deliver some medicine that will aid in Kenshin's fight .

1996-12-0425

Episode 6For the Title of Strongest: Aoshi's New Conflict

In the wake of Kenshin's departure, everyone at the dojo is anxious to join the battle against Shishio. With Sanosuke, Kaoru and Yahiko in pursuit, Kenshin encounters Misao, a young girl who also happens to be a clever thief.

1996-12-1125

Episode 7The Girl Bandit: Misao Makimachi's Hidden Side

After befriending Misao, Kenshin insists that she return the money she's stolen before letting her accompany him on his quest to stop Shishio.

1997-01-0825

Episode 8Conquered Village: The Grasp of Shishio's Hands

When he and Misao come across a village terrorized by forces loyal to Shishio, Kenshin enlists Saito to help liberate it from the evil gang.

1997-01-1525

Episode 9Across the Boundary Between Edo and Meiji: Kenshin and Shishio Face to Face!

Leaving Misao behind, Kenshin and Saito make their way inside Shishio's fortress. Following a confrontation with one of his most powerful henchmen, Kenshin is ready to take on Shishio himself.

1997-01-2225

Episode 10Shock! Reverse Blade Sword Broken: Sojiro's Tenken verses Kenshin

Following Kenshin's defeat of the giant Senkaku, Shishio pits him against the young, emotionless assassin responsible for the Home Minister's murder.

1997-01-2925

Episode 11Sanosuke's Secret Training: The Challenge of Anji, the Destroyer

As Kaoru and Yahiko continue tracking Kenshin, Sanosuke encounters a fallen Buddhist monk who offers to teach him some powerful fighting techniques.

1997-02-0525

Episode 12The Creator of the Reverse Blade: Shakku Arai's Final Swing

As the showdown with Shishio approaches, Misao finds someone who could produce the sword Kenshin needs, only to be is disappointed when Shakkuu Arai refuses.

1997-02-1225

Episode 13A Killer Without Mercy: Fight to the Death Against the Cho of the Juppongatana

After watching an unarmed Kenshin bravely defend himself, Shakkuu Arai's only chance at saving his own son is to deliver his father's final reverse edge sword.

1997-02-1925

Episode 14The Ultimate Technique of the Hiten-Mitsurugi Style: Reunion with a Mentor, Seijuro Hiko

To prepare for Shishio, Kenshin asks a former teacher to help him master the last of his fighting techniques. However, Kenshin is distracted when Kaoru and Yahiko finally catch up with him after their long journey.

1997-02-2625

Episode 15The Formation of an Alliance: The Day When Aoshi Joins with Shishio

Although Misao is excited by the return of her mentor and hero, she's stunned to discover that Aoshi has betrayed one of their closest friends.

1997-03-0525

Episode 16Between Life and Death: Master the Ultimate Technique, Amakakeru Ryu no Hikameki!

As Kenshin struggles to learn, Sijuro teaches him the most secret of his fighting techniques. And though Kenshin doesn't want to kill, it's inevitable if he is to beat Shishio. Meanwhile, Sanosuke is arrested during his search for Kenshin.

1997-03-1225

Episode 17A Decisive Battle Like Violent Waters: The Strongest Troop, Juppongatana

While waiting in jail, Sanosuke learns of Shishio's plan to overthrow the government by recruiting a deadly band of Samurai, including the blind warrior Usui, to defeat Kenshin and Saito.

1997-03-1925

Episode 18As if to Fly: Stop the Launch of the Battleship Purgatory!

Reunited with Sanosuke, Kenshin lays plans to stop Shishio from burning Tokyo to create the confusion he needs to overthrow the government. But Shishio harbors a surprise with his newest weapon, an ironclad battleship hidden inside another.

1997-04-1625

Episode 19Purgatory Bursts into Flames: The Destiny of Makoto Shishio

After Kenshin, Saito and Sanosuke destroy his battleship, Shishio issues his challenge for a final confrontation. And following Misao's defeat of the blind Samurai, Usui, Kenshin vows to spare the life of her mentor, Aoshi.

1997-04-2325

Episode 20Crash! The Lethal Punch, Futae no Kiwami: The Fist of Sonosuke Screams!

As Shishio prepares for battle, a henchmen suggests a plan to weaken Kenshin and his forces, ridding them of any opposition once and for all. As the moment of truth draws near, Sanosuke is pitted against Anji.

1997-04-3025

Episode 21Reborn to Salvation: The Beginning of Anji’s New Life

During his battle with Sanosuke, the fallen monk recalls how his hatred was born during an anti-Buddhist movement.

1997-05-1425

Episode 22The Wolf Destroys the Eye of the Heart: The Fierce Attack of the Zero Stance Gatotsu

In his defeat of Usui, Saito exposes the blind warrior's plot to kill Shishio. And while Kaoru, Yahiko and Misao are preparing to defend themselves from an ambush, Kenshin readies for his fight against Aoshi.

1997-05-2825

Episode 23The Promised Time Has Come: Aoshi and Kenshin Fight Again

Kenshin sets out to honor his promises to both fight Aoshi and bring him back alive to Misao.

1997-06-0425

Episode 24Wake Up Now! Ignore Your Wounds and Fight to the Finish

Following his defeat by Kenshin, Aoshi vows to renounce Shishio. And while Shishio looks for clues to help in his impending fight with Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko and Misao fight to stay alive.

1997-06-1125

Episode 25To Make a Miracle: The Battle at the Aoiya

After Yahiko's fighting skills are stretched to the limit during his defeat of Shishio's warrior, it's now up to Kaoru to enter a battle of her own.

1997-06-1825

Episode 26The Giant Versus Superman: Like an Arrow Shot at a Time of Despair

Despite the overwhelming odds, Kaoru, Yahiko and Misao continue to face warriors sent to eliminate them. But it's the arrival of Kenshin's teacher that turns the tide in their favor.

1997-06-2525

Episode 27Hiten Versus Shukuchi: Sojiro's Inborn Talent

As Sanosuke looks on, Kenshin goes to battle with Souijuro, the emotionless assassin responsible for breaking his sword. Though Shishio is confident of the young warrior's ability, Kenshin may be able to win without having to resort to killing.

1997-07-0225

Episode 28The Tragedy of a Stormy Night: Sojiro's Past

In an effort to explain Souijuro's emotionless posture, Kenshin recalls how the young assassin was rescued from a life of slavery and then taught to fight by Shishio.

1997-07-0925

Episode 29A Duel With an Extreme Moment: Shuntensatsu Versus Amakakeru Ryu no Hikameki

In the face of Kenshin's probing questions, Souijuro's concentration is broken. In defeat, the young assassin returns his prized sword to Shishio, warning him of the danger that lays ahead.

1997-07-1625

Episode 30Two Men at the End of an Era: Shishio Versus Kenshin, Final Battle

As Kaoru and Yahiko anxiously await his return, a wounded but determined Kenshin arrives for his final showdown with Shishio, who is unwilling to have anyone stand in his way of controlling Japan's future.

1997-08-0625

Episode 31The Age Chooses Shishio? Kenshin's Greatest Crisis

In their long awaited battle, Kenshin and Shishio compare ideologies as well as fighting techniques. But once Shishio uses gunpowder to gain the upper hand, it looks like Kenshin is doomed.

1997-08-1325

Episode 32Not Out of Luck! The Revival of a Fighting Spirit

As Aoshi tries to stop a takeover of the country, Kenshin poses Shishio with his greatest challenge. In his defeat of Usui, Saito exposes the blind warrior's plot to kill Shishio.

1997-08-2025

Episode 33The Man Who is Chosen for Victory: Shishio Versus Kenshin, Finale

Kenshin's final effort to win the ultimate battle ends with Shishio destroying himself. But in the wake of Kenshin's victory, Shishio's closest aide vows revenge.

1997-09-0325

Episode 34The Juppongatana Who Remain: A Choice for Life

Following Shishio's defeat, his remaining allies put their fate in the hands of the government. While Kenshin is reunited with his Peace Force, the vanquished Shishio vows to take over Hell.

1997-09-1025

Episode 35Kyoto, the Engraved Memory: Begin with a Wish

As Kenshin is nursing the wounds sustained in his fight with Shishio, Kaoru prepares the Peace Force for their return home.

1997-09-1725

Season 3

Tales of the Meiji

32 episodes · 1997

Episode 1The Legend of the Fireflies: A Girl Who Waits for Her Love

Back at home, Kaoru works to restore the dilapidated dojo, while Kenshin encounters a wise old fisherman who teaches him an important lesson about love.

1997-10-1425

Episode 2The Birth of Prince Yahiko? An Elegant Debut into Society

After stepping in to stop what appears to be a robbery, Kenshin and Kaoru meet a young prince who looks exactly like Yahiko.

1997-10-2825

Episode 3Find the Lost Treasure! The Great Detective Dog Notaro

Sanosuke adopts a stray dog, unaware that it holds the key to a criminal gang's plot to blackmail some local officials and gain political control. And when the gang finally tracks him down, Kenshin and Yahiko join Sanosuke to foil their plan.

1997-11-0425

Episode 4Kaoru Ecstatic! Kenshin's Proposal?

After Kenshin finds a ring inside a catfish, he's persuaded to give it to Kaoru. Thinking it's an engagement ring, Kaoru is sure that he's asking her to get married.

1997-11-1125

Episode 5Gleaming Blade of Legends! The Mystic Swordsman Shougo Amakusa

Alerted by Misao, Kenshin and the rest of the Peace Force arrive to help Aoshi find a mysterious killer. Kenshin's investigation uncovers evidence linking the killing to a Christian Samurai and of vengeance that's been foretold.

1997-11-1825

Episode 6The Medallion of Destiny: The First Meeting of Sanosuke and Sayo

In an effort to prevent more revenge killings, Kenshin must take on Shogo Amakusa, the Christian warrior known as God's Child.

1997-11-2525

Episode 7To the Battlefield of Shimabara: The Moment of Decisive Battle

As Kenshin prepares to honor his promise to stop Shogo Amakusa, he and Sanosuke uncover a secret church that was built when Christian worshipers were forced underground.

1997-12-0225

Episode 8Shock of the Rai Ryu Sen! Kenshin Sent into Darkness

When neither Kaoru nor Kenshin can persuade Shogo Amakusa to abandon his plan to advance the Christian cause through violence, the stage for battle is set.

1997-12-0925

Episode 9The Conspiracy of Kaiou: Shougo Caught in a Trap

Though blinded by his duel with Shogo Amakusa, Kenshin seeks another battle in hopes it will restore his sight.

1997-12-1625

Episode 10Days of Remorse: The Sad Past of Shougo and Sayo

Along with the story of his parent's martyrdom, Misao uncovers the truth behind the alleged miracles that deified Shogo Amarusa.

1998-01-0625

Episode 11The Sneering Demon: Shouzo and Karyu Scattered in the Explosive Flames

Sir Kaioh unveils his plan to use Shogo Amarusa's loyal followers to overthrow the government and control Japan himself.

1998-01-1325

Episode 12Sanosuke's Tears: An Eternal Farewell Befalls the Two

As Kenshin tries to stop the slaughter of the Christians as they march towards martyrdom, Sanosuke is unable to avert the death of Shogo's terminally ill sister.

1998-01-2025

Episode 13The Last Crusade: Two Amakakeru Ryu no Hirameki Crash!

As Misao and the Dutch consul ask the Army delay to their attack, the sightless Kenshin pressures Shogo to prevent the martyrdom of his followers.

1998-01-2725

Episode 14Bon Voyage

Following Shogo's surrender, Kenshin asks the government not to execute him. As a result, he and his followers are sent into exile in Holland.

1998-02-0325

Episode 15Himura Dojo in Shimonoseki?

When the Peace Force comes across a man posing as Kenshin, everyone else wants the impostor exposed. But Kenshin notes that he's been using his profits to care for a group of orphans.

1998-02-1025

Episode 16Crush!

When Kenshin accidentally loses all their money, the Peace Force must go to work at an inn in order to pay their bill.

1998-02-1725

Episode 17Kaishu Katsu and Kenshin: The Destiny of Two Men Who Survived the Revolution

Kaoru offers to take on a scholarly young student who's been expelled by his teacher until he learns how to fight.

1998-02-2425

Episode 18The Unending Revolution: A Destiny Forced Upon Kaishu

As Kaoru continues her training of Daigoro, Kenshin is warned to steer clear of the young man's teacher, Kaishu Katsu.

1998-03-0325

Episode 19Conspiracy of the Beni-aoi: The Living Ghost of the Revolution Targets Kaishu!

Despite Kaishu's determination to free his daughter on his own, Kenshin joins the Peace Force and Daigoro for a rescue.

1998-03-1025

Episode 20Kaishu Katsu's Determination: The Truth that Lived Through the Times

Though Daigoro is wounded in the battle, Kenshin and company free Itsuko.

1998-04-1425

Episode 21Yutaro Returns: The Conspiracy of the Shadow Swordsmen

With his arm nearly healed, Yutaro and his doctor arrive for a visit at the dojo.

1998-04-2125

Episode 22The Sanada Ninja Squad and the Elixir: Misanagi's Driving Quest

When a letter from Dr. Hans reveals the story of the miraculous medicine, Yutaro joins the Peace Force in an effort to find it.

1998-05-0525

Episode 23A Straying Journey: The Trap of the Divine Crossing!

Using the clues left behind by Dr. Hans, Kenshin and company are led to the hidden shrine that holds the key to the miracle cure.

1998-05-1925

Episode 24A Heat Wave from Beneath the Earth: The Three Sanada Demons!

After surviving a fall into a volcano, the Peace Force comes across an injured Sanada Ninja who offers to help battle his former allies.

1998-05-2625

Episode 25Schneider's Bet: The Collapse of the Black Knights!

After their search leads them to the hidden cure, the leader of the Black Knights makes it clear that he has no intention of honoring his promise to cede control of Japan to the Sanada Ninjas.

1998-06-0225

Episode 26The Two Guides: Yahiko and Yutaro's Eternal Vow

As he faces off against the Black Knight's leader, Kenshin must rely on his brains and not his sword to win the battle.

1998-06-0925

Episode 27To My Angel Misao: A Fetching from Kyoto

As Aoshi arrives to bring her home, Misao joins Kaoru and some friends for a final shopping spree. However, Sanosuke and Yahiko's efforts to keep an eye on the women lead to them to be mistaken for a pair of thieves.

1998-06-1625

Episode 28Feng Shui, Surprise Attack! The Mystery of the Pentagram Spread!

Following a series of accidents in town, a master of feng shui blames an imbalance in the Ki, a force which keeps all of nature's other forces in balance.

1998-06-2325

Episode 29The Magic of Feng Shui: Kamiya Dojo is Targeted!

As Kenshin learns of a battle between the Wind and Water families for control of the Ki, efforts to build a railroad are exposed as a Water clan plot to control Japan.

1998-07-2125

Episode 30Tokyo Under Martial Law! The Deadly Ryu Myaku

The Water family's efforts to gain control of the Ki have left Kaoru seriously wounded.

1998-08-0425

Episode 31The Enemy Awaits in Senjo Gahara: In Search of the Jade Crest

With help from the Wind family's leader, Kenshin saves Kaoru's life. But the Water family's quest to redirect the Ki and gain control of Japan moves ahead as planned.

1998-08-1825

Episode 32The Elegy of Wind and Water: A Last Desperate Effort!

With Kenshin's help, the Wind family derails their rival's plan to redirect the flow of the Ki and ends their effort to dominate Japan.

1998-09-0825