Key Facts

• Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc aired on Fuji TV on July 16
• Sanemi and Obanai appear in an anime-original battle scene
• Sanemi uses “Wind Breathing” techniques for the first time in the anime
• Tomokazu Seki reflects on the recording process and role preparation
• He focused on portraying Sanemi with intense dedication to fighting demons

On July 16, the special edited episode Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc aired on Fuji TV, featuring a new anime-original battle scene where Sanemi Shinazugawa and Obanai Iguro team up. This marks the first time “Wind Breathing” and “Serpent Breathing” techniques are shown in this arc. Voice actor Tomokazu Seki discussed his role as Sanemi in an interview with ORICON NEWS.

Anime-Original Battle Scene Debuts Sanemi and Obanai’s Joint Fight

In the Hashira Training Arc, Sanemi Shinazugawa (voiced by Tomokazu Seki) and Obanai Iguro (voiced by Kenichi Suzumura) engage in an original battle scene created specifically for the anime. This scene marks the debut of Sanemi’s “Wind Breathing” and Obanai’s “Serpent Breathing” techniques in the arc.

Seki noted that before this arc, Sanemi’s appearances were limited to scenes such as meetings with Kagaya Ubuyashiki (voiced by Toshiyuki Morikawa). He shared that he previously lacked a strong sense of participation in the series, despite fans recognizing him from his role.

Tomokazu Seki Embraces Sanemi’s First Full Battle Scene

In the first episode of the arc, Sanemi partners with Obanai for a mission. Reflecting on the new battle scene, Seki said, “I finally got to perform a real Demon Slayer-style scene using Total Concentration Breathing to defeat demons.”

He shared his excitement about working with the main cast during recording, expressing awe at hearing the voices of Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke in person. This collaboration helped solidify his connection to the series.

When it came to delivering the signature “Wind Breathing” lines, Seki said he felt a strong sense of satisfaction. “I had heard people cheering each other on with lines like ‘Total Concentration!’ so when I saw the technique names in the script, I felt grateful to finally say them.”

Role Preparation Focused Solely on Demons

Seki approached the role with a firm mindset: “It’s all about demons—just demons, demons, demons.” He explained that Sanemi is entirely focused on eradicating demons, having dedicated everything to that goal following traumatic events in his childhood.

He shared that his portrayal avoided unnecessary emotion, maintaining Sanemi’s sharp and direct personality. While Sanemi’s interactions with his brother Genya suggest hidden depth, Seki chose not to dwell on those aspects unless the scene required it.

During recording, Seki explored various delivery styles, including quieter versions of Sanemi’s lines after using techniques. Ultimately, the team decided on a bold and energetic approach. “I think I did the ‘Wind Breathing’ lines three times in a row, like releasing something that had been building up,” he said.

The anime began with the TV adaptation Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc airing from April to September 2019, followed by the blockbuster film Mugen Train in October 2020. Subsequent arcs include the Entertainment District Arc (December 2021), Swordsmith Village Arc (April 2023), and Hashira Training Arc (May–June 2024). The Mugen Castle Arc picks up directly after the final episode of the Hashira Training Arc and is planned as a trilogy of theatrical films.

Story Overview: Demon Slayer – Mugen Castle Arc

Tanjiro Kamado, determined to restore his demon-turned sister Nezuko to humanity, joins the Demon Slayer Corps. Alongside comrades Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira, Tanjiro battles formidable demons, growing stronger and forming unbreakable bonds.

In previous arcs, Tanjiro fought alongside elite Hashira warriors: the Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku in Mugen Train, the Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui in Entertainment District, and the Mist and Love Hashira—Muichiro Tokito and Mitsuri Kanroji—in Swordsmith Village.

During the intensive Hashira Training to prepare for the ultimate showdown against the demons, the demon lord Muzan Kibutsuji infiltrates the Demon Slayer Corps headquarters, the Ubuyashiki Estate. As the Hashira and Tanjiro rush to protect their leader, they are suddenly cast into a mysterious dimension.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle | MAIN TRAILER

FAQ

Q: When did the Hashira Training Arc episode air on TV?
A: It aired on July 16 on Fuji TV.

Q: Which characters appeared in the original battle scene?
A: Sanemi Shinazugawa and Obanai Iguro appeared in the anime-original scene.

Q: What technique does Sanemi use in this arc?
A: Sanemi uses “Wind Breathing” for the first time in this arc.

Q: Who voices Sanemi Shinazugawa?
A: Sanemi is voiced by Tomokazu Seki.

Q: What was Seki’s approach to portraying Sanemi?
A: He focused on Sanemi’s complete dedication to fighting demons, avoiding emotional interpretation unless required.

Source : ORICON NEWS