Tanjiro Kamado doesn’t explicitly use Sun Breathing techniques by name in the early episodes of Demon Slayer. Instead, the breathing style he performs, Hinokami Kagura, is later revealed to be a direct derivation and closely related. The first instance of Tanjiro utilizing Hinokami Kagura, which foreshadows his connection to Sun Breathing, occurs in Episode 19, “Hinokami,” of the first season. This pivotal moment marks a turning point in his battle against Rui, the Lower Five of the Twelve Kizuki.
Unveiling the Power: Tanjiro’s Hinokami Kagura
Episode 19 is arguably one of the most iconic episodes of Demon Slayer. Faced with overwhelming odds against Rui, Tanjiro finds himself pushed to his absolute limit. His Water Breathing techniques prove insufficient to sever Rui’s incredibly strong threads. Just as hope seems lost, memories of his father performing the Hinokami Kagura, a ritual dance offered to the Fire God, flood Tanjiro’s mind.
Inspired by his father’s movements and desperate for a breakthrough, Tanjiro instinctively replicates the steps, unconsciously converting them into a fighting style. He channels the burning intensity of the sun, augmenting his speed and strength. It is with this newfound power, channeled through Hinokami Kagura, that Tanjiro finally manages to sever Rui’s threads and gain the upper hand in the battle. This is not just a visual spectacle; it’s the genesis of Tanjiro’s deeper connection to the most powerful and original breathing style.
Hinokami Kagura vs. Sun Breathing: A Crucial Distinction
While Tanjiro doesn’t explicitly name it as Sun Breathing at this point, the Hinokami Kagura is essentially a descendant of it. It’s important to understand the distinction. The anime later clarifies that Sun Breathing is the original and strongest breathing style, the source from which all other breathing styles are derived. The Hinokami Kagura, passed down through the Kamado family, is a stylized, simplified, but still incredibly powerful, variation of this ancient technique.
This episode is significant not only because it’s the first time we see Tanjiro using Hinokami Kagura, but also because it hints at the larger, more complex history of the Demon Slayer Corps and the true origins of breathing styles. The encounter with Rui and the subsequent revelations about his father’s dance serve as a catalyst for Tanjiro’s eventual pursuit of understanding and mastering the full potential of the Sun Breathing lineage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Tanjiro’s Sun Breathing
Here are some frequently asked questions addressing key aspects of Tanjiro’s journey with Sun Breathing, providing further insight into this complex and fascinating element of the Demon Slayer narrative.
FAQ 1: Is Hinokami Kagura actually Sun Breathing?
No, not exactly. Hinokami Kagura is a dance passed down through the Kamado family, and it’s heavily implied to be a derivative, or a form of Sun Breathing. It captures the essence and some of the techniques of the original style, but it is not the complete or pure form. It’s more akin to a simplified adaptation.
FAQ 2: When does Tanjiro learn the name Sun Breathing?
Tanjiro officially learns the name and more about the history of Sun Breathing later in the series, particularly during the Swordsmith Village Arc. He receives instruction and guidance from various individuals, including Yoriichi Type Zero, a battle doll modeled after the creator of Sun Breathing, Yoriichi Tsugikuni.
FAQ 3: Why is Sun Breathing considered the strongest breathing style?
Sun Breathing is considered the strongest because it is the origin of all other breathing styles. All other breathing styles were derived from individuals trying to replicate and adapt the Sun Breathing, which proved too difficult for most to master completely. Therefore, Sun Breathing retains the most comprehensive and powerful techniques.
FAQ 4: What are the forms of Hinokami Kagura that Tanjiro uses?
Tanjiro primarily uses forms such as the “Dance,” “Clear Blue Sky,” and “Burning Bones, Summer Sun.” Each form embodies specific movements and techniques that Tanjiro adapts and utilizes in combat. He gains a better understanding and execution of these forms as the series progresses.
FAQ 5: How does Tanjiro improve his usage of Hinokami Kagura/Sun Breathing?
Tanjiro improves through constant training, rigorous combat experiences, and guidance from mentors. He studies his own movements, analyzes his weaknesses, and continuously refines his technique. The information gleaned from Yoriichi Type Zero significantly accelerates his understanding.
FAQ 6: Does Tanjiro ever fully master Sun Breathing?
While Tanjiro makes significant progress and becomes incredibly proficient, the question of whether he fully masters Sun Breathing is open to interpretation. He develops his own unique adaptations and incorporates elements from other styles. His ability to rival Muzan suggests that he is approaching the level of mastery, even if he doesn’t perfectly replicate the original style.
FAQ 7: What are the drawbacks of using Hinokami Kagura initially?
Initially, Tanjiro’s body struggles to handle the immense strain of the Hinokami Kagura. He experiences significant fatigue and potential injury due to pushing his body beyond its limits. Over time, as his stamina and control improve, these drawbacks lessen.
FAQ 8: How is Water Breathing different from Sun Breathing?
Water Breathing focuses on fluid movements and mimicking the properties of water, providing adaptability and defense. Sun Breathing, on the other hand, is more aggressive and explosive, channeling the power of the sun for direct attacks. Water Breathing is derived from Sun Breathing but emphasizes different aspects and techniques.
FAQ 9: Why did Tanjiro’s father know Hinokami Kagura?
Tanjiro’s father, Tanjuro Kamado, possessed the innate ability and lineage to perform the Hinokami Kagura. The dance was passed down through their family for generations, though its true connection to Sun Breathing was likely forgotten over time.
FAQ 10: Does Sun Breathing have a specific color associated with it?
Yes, Sun Breathing is often associated with red and orange hues, symbolizing the burning intensity of the sun. This is reflected in the visual effects and animations when Tanjiro uses Hinokami Kagura.
FAQ 11: Is Sun Breathing related to any other breathing styles besides Water Breathing?
Almost all other breathing styles are related to Sun Breathing in some way. Thunder Breathing, Flame Breathing, Wind Breathing, Stone Breathing, and Moon Breathing are all derivations created by students who could not fully master the complexities of Sun Breathing.
FAQ 12: What makes Hinokami Kagura/Sun Breathing so effective against demons?
Sun Breathing is particularly effective against demons because it directly targets their inherent weakness: the sun. The techniques and movements of Sun Breathing channel that same solar energy, allowing Demon Slayers to inflict significant damage and potentially overcome even the strongest demons. The flames produced by the techniques burn hotter and inflict more pain and long-lasting damage than techniques from other breathing styles.