With just one week remaining before the release of the highly anticipated film Demon Slayer: Mugen Castle Arc Part 1: Akaza Returns (JP: 鬼滅の刃 無限城編 第一章 猗窩座再来) on July 18, a special pre-release blessing event was held on July 11 at Zojoji Temple in Tokyo. Thirteen voice actors representing the Demon Slayer Corps and the Hashira, including Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado), gathered to offer prayers and dedicate lanterns, wishing for the film's success and wide audience reach.

In addition to Hanae, the event featured Akari Kito (Nezuko Kamado), Hiro Shimono (Zenitsu Agatsuma), Yoshitsugu Matsuoka (Inosuke Hashibira), Reina Ueda (Kanao Tsuyuri), Nobuhiko Okamoto (Genya Shinazugawa), Takahiro Sakurai (Giyu Tomioka – Water Hashira), Kengo Kawanishi (Muichiro Tokito – Mist Hashira), Saori Hayami (Shinobu Kocho – Insect Hashira), Kana Hanazawa (Mitsuri Kanroji – Love Hashira), Tomokazu Seki (Sanemi Shinazugawa – Wind Hashira), Tomokazu Sugita (Gyomei Himejima – Stone Hashira), and Katsuyuki Konishi (Tengen Uzui – Sound Hashira). Although Kenichi Suzumura (Obanai Iguro – Serpent Hashira) was absent, the event marked a rare large-scale gathering of the cast.

A large panel display of the movie and a vivid red carpet stage were set up in front of the main hall of Zojoji Temple, which is known for its Black Amida Buddha—a symbol historically used for victory prayers. The temple, associated with good fortune, served as a fitting backdrop for the cast’s heartfelt wishes for the characters’ bright future and the film’s success. The cast, dressed in coordinated all-black outfits, was greeted with warm applause from fans, waving with bright smiles.

Hanae expressed his joy at the venue: “I’m incredibly happy. I never imagined we’d be able to hold an event here at Zojoji Temple.” Gesturing toward the grand setting, he joked, “With a view this majestic, even a demon might find peace here.” Konishi followed with his trademark enthusiasm: “Yes! I’m part of the festival crowd!” he shouted, energizing the audience. “This is my first time seeing it, and wow—so flashy! Please make lots of noise so this event will be a great success!” he added, firing up the crowd with a booming, “Let’s go all out today!”

With the premiere just days away, Hanae reflected, “It’s finally happening,” and recalled how far the series had come. “It’s been six years since the start of the Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc. I never imagined it would grow this big,” he said, turning to Kito and calling, “Nezuko?” She nodded, visibly moved: “Thinking back to the first arc really brings tears to my eyes.” Hanae added, “It’s thanks to the total concentration of the fans, the staff, and the entire cast.”

During the talk session, the cast reminisced about the series, quoting lines from their characters and showcasing their camaraderie, delighting fans. Afterward, 15 “Mini Slayers”—adorable chibi versions of the characters—appeared at the base of the temple steps, entertaining fans and press alike. It was also announced that the Mini Slayers will embark on a 2025 Japan Tour titled “Japan Tour 2025.” The event also featured the “Mugen Castle Car,” with Mini Slayers versions of Zenitsu and Inosuke on display.

In the closing moments, each cast member returned to the stage holding a lantern designed to represent their character. At Hanae’s call—“Once again, we offer these lanterns in hopes that Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Castle Arc Part 1: Akaza Returns, premiering July 18, reaches as many people as possible!”—the cast raised their lanterns high. When lit simultaneously, they illuminated the venue with a warm glow, symbolizing prayers for success and a prosperous turnout.

The Demon Slayer anime is based on Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga, serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from February 2016 to May 2020, with over 150 million copies in circulation. Set in Japan’s Taisho era, where man-eating demons roam, the story follows Tanjiro Kamado, who joins the Demon Slayer Corps to save his demon-transformed sister, Nezuko.

The anime adaptation began with the Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc in April 2019. It was followed by the Mugen Train Arc film in October 2020, the Entertainment District Arc in December 2021, the Swordsmith Village Arc in April 2023, and the Hashira Training Arc in May–June 2024. The Mugen Castle Arc, a theatrical trilogy, continues directly from the final episode of the Hashira Training Arc.

The event was hosted by series producer Yuma Takahashi.

Source : ORICON NEWS