The Hidden Meanings Behind the Demon Slayer Ranks

The Demon Slayer Ranking System You Need to Explore and Know

Uncover the hidden depths of the Demon Slayer ranks. Explore the rigorous training, intense battles, and personal growth that shape each member's journey. Learn about the distinct strengths and weaknesses of each rank, and appreciate the sacrifices made by these brave individuals in their fight against the demons. Join us on Japan Figure for an in-depth analysis.

Table of Contents ▼

Demon Slayer Ranking System
Other Demon Slayer ranks
- Tsuguko
- Hashira
Leader of the Demon Slayer Corps
What is Kakushi?
What Is Tanjiro’s Rank?

Demon Slayer Ranking System

The ranking system in the Demon Slayer Corps, known as the Demon Slayer ranks, serves as a measure of a swordsman's strength and potential. It not only determines their responsibilities within the organization but also reflects their dedication to the cause of exterminating demons.

Structural Hierarchy of the Corps

The Demon Slayer Corps, an organisation dedicated to eradicating demons, has a hierarchical structure that reflects the different levels of skill and experience within its ranks.

Here's a breakdown of the Corps' structural hierarchy:

Hashira (Pillars)

The nine most powerful and skilled Demon Slayers, known as the Hashira, are the backbone of the Demon Slayer Corps. Each Hashira specialises in a unique Breathing Style, granting them immense strength and abilities.

They are responsible for leading missions and protecting humanity from the threat of demons.

Mizunoto (Water Pillar): Demon Slayers below the rank of Hashira are still highly skilled and experienced fighters who play a crucial role in protecting humanity. They often assist Hashira on dangerous missions, showcasing their strength and dedication to the cause. Despite not reaching the pinnacle of the Demon Slayer Corps, these individuals are formidable forces in their own right, contributing significantly to the fight against demons.
Tsugoku (Prisoners of the Demon Slayer Corps): Demon Slayers who have committed serious offences, such as insubordination or desertion. They are imprisoned and forced to serve the Corps, often performing menial tasks or participating in dangerous missions. We will go into more detail later.
Kanoe (Canoe Corps): A group of Demon Slayers who specialize in water-based combat and transportation. They are skilled swimmers and often use boats or rafts to navigate bodies of water.

Other Ranks:

Konoe: A rank for Demon Slayers who are still in training.
Kamado: A rank for Demon Slayers who have completed their initial training but are not yet fully qualified.
Oyakata: A rank for Demon Slayers who have retired from active duty.

It's important to note that the Demon Slayer Corps' hierarchy is not rigid and can change depending on the specific needs of the organization. However, this general structure provides a framework for understanding the different roles and responsibilities of its members.

Criteria for Rank Advancement

Demon Slaying Record:

Demon Slaying is measured by a few key factors that determine a Slayer's progress. The most important is the number of demons they defeat, with each rank requiring a specific tally of kills.

Additionally, taking down more powerful demons, particularly those known as the Twelve Kizuki, greatly impacts a Slayer's advancement.

kimetsu no yaiba tanjiro vs gyutaro

It’s also essential for Demon Slayers to master different breathing techniques and demonstrate exceptional skill and creativity in their sword fighting. These elements together define a Slayer’s success in their quest against demons.

Mission Accomplishment

Mission accomplishment is an important aspect of a Demon Slayer's journey. A Slayer's success rate in completing missions, no matter how challenging, is crucial for their progress.

Taking on high-risk assignments, like infiltrating demon lairs or rescuing hostages, can help them advance more quickly in rank.

Additionally, those who come up with creative strategies or use unique tactics to tackle difficult situations may also see faster rank advancement as a reward for their ingenuity.

Character and Conduct

Discipline and loyalty are vital for members of the Demon Slayer Corps. Following the code of conduct, which emphasizes respect for fellow Slayers and a strong commitment to their mission, is essential.

Additionally, having mental resilience is important, as slaying demons can take a significant emotional toll, often bringing trauma and loss.

The Demon Slayer Corps' hierarchy is flexible and can adapt to the organization's needs. However, this general structure helps clarify the roles and responsibilities of its members.

Lastly, maintaining moral integrity is crucial; Demon Slayers need to uphold strong ethical standards and avoid any actions that could harm the Corps' reputation.

Potential and Growth

Potential and growth are important aspects of being a Demon Slayer. When a Slayer manifests the Demon Slayer Mark, it signifies significant potential for increased strength and skill, often leading to faster advancement in ranks.

Slayers who have unique abilities, like specialized breathing techniques or enhanced senses, may also be considered for quicker promotions.

Additionally, the capacity to learn new techniques, adapt to different situations, and effectively tackle challenges is highly valued within the Corps.

Methods of Evaluating Rankings

While the series itself provides some insights into the ranking system, fans and analysts have developed various methods to evaluate and compare the strengths of different Demon Slayers:

Direct Confrontations

Direct confrontations play a significant role in showcasing a Demon Slayer's strength. Victories over powerful demons, especially those ranked higher or part of the Twelve Kizuki, clearly demonstrate a Slayer's skill and capability.

Although less frequent, battles between Demon Slayers themselves can also highlight differences in power and abilities among them.

Breathing Style Mastery

Breathing style mastery is crucial for Demon Slayers. Those who develop unique techniques within their Breathing Styles are often seen as more powerful.

However, true mastery goes beyond just having strength; it also requires precise control and the ability to adapt to different situations. This combination of power and skill makes a Slayer exceptionally effective in battle.

Demon Slayer Mark

The Demon Slayer Mark is an important symbol of a Slayer's strength. When this mark awakens, it can greatly boost a fighter's abilities, making them much more powerful.

While these methods offer a framework for evaluating Demon Slayer rankings, individual opinions may vary due to the subjective nature of such assessments.

Additionally, some Slayers with the mark showcase unique abilities that further distinguish them from others, enhancing their effectiveness in battles against demons.

Hashira Potential

Hashira candidates are often recognized for their potential due to their strong leadership qualities and strategic thinking skills.

To take on the demanding role of a Hashira, they must also possess unwavering determination and a strong will, as these traits are essential for overcoming the challenges they will face in their fight against demons.

Demon Slayer fans often engage in discussions and debates about the Demon Slayer ranks of their favorite characters. These discussions often involve analyzing:

Feats and Accomplishments: Specific battles, missions, and challenges that a character has overcome.
Character Development: How a character has grown and evolved throughout the series.
Potential and Future Growth: The character's untapped potential and future possibilities.

It's important to note that while these methods provide a framework for evaluating Demon Slayer rankings, the subjective nature of such assessments can lead to diverse opinions and interpretations. Ultimately, the enjoyment of the series lies in appreciating the unique strengths and abilities of each character, regardless of their official rank.

Impact of Rank on Missions and Duties

The ranking system in the Demon Slayer Corps is designed to ensure that the most challenging tasks are assigned to the most capable individuals while allowing lower-ranked members to develop their skills and advance.

The lowest rank

At the lowest rank, Mizunoto, recruits begin their journey by taking on simpler missions, such as patrolling local areas and eliminating minor demon threats. This helps them gain experience and understand the challenges of demon slaying.

As they prove their abilities, they can be promoted to Kinoto and then Kinoe, where they face more complex missions that often require teamwork and strategic thinking. These roles might involve investigating demon lairs or protecting specific regions.

The higher rank

Higher ranks include Hinoto and Hinoe, which signify a significant level of skill and experience. Slayers at these levels are entrusted with critical missions, such as confronting powerful demons or infiltrating strongholds, often working independently or in small teams.

The top ranks, Tsuchinoto and Tsuchi no e, are reserved for those with extraordinary strength, speed, and mastery of Breathing Techniques, who are tasked with battling the Twelve Kizuki, the most powerful demons.

The Hashira

Above all these ranks are the Hashira, elite Demon Slayers who specialize in specific Breathing Techniques. Each Hashira is responsible for protecting a particular region and is regarded as one of the strongest fighters in the Corps.

They play a vital role in coordinating the efforts of lower-ranked members and tackling the most dangerous demon threats. Overall, this ranking system is crucial for maintaining order, efficiency, and the success of the Demon Slayer Corps in facing the challenges of the demon world.

Other Demon Slayer ranks

Tsuguko

In the world of Demon Slayer ranks the Tsuguko rank holds a special significance. It designates a highly skilled Demon Slayer who is being personally trained by a Hashira.

This unique position marks them as the potential successor to their mentor's legacy, inheriting their specific Breathing Style and fighting techniques.

Key Characteristics of a Tsuguko:

Exceptional Talent: Tsuguko are chosen for their exceptional abilities and potential. They often possess a natural affinity for swordsmanship and strong willpower.
Dedicated Training: Under the watchful eye of a Hashira, Tsuguko undergoes rigorous training, pushing their limits to master their Breathing Style and combat skills.
Strong Bond with Hashira: A deep bond forms between a Tsuguko and their Hashira, as they learn not only fighting techniques but also the values and philosophy of the Demon Slayer Corps.

A Tsuguko's ultimate goal is to ascend to the rank of Hashira. To achieve this, they must demonstrate exceptional strength, skill, and unwavering determination. They must also be able to independently face and defeat powerful demons, proving their worth as a pillar of the Demon Slayer Corps.

Hashira

The Hashira are the highest-ranking swordsmen in the Demon Slayer Corps, considered the elite of the organization. Each Hashira specializes in a particular breathing style and possesses immense strength and skill in demon slaying.

Active Hashira:

Giyu Tomioka: Water Hashira, known for his calm and collected demeanor, as well as his powerful water-based techniques.
Gyomei Himejima: Stone Hashira, a towering and immensely strong figure, wielding a pair of massive kanabo as weapons.
Sanemi Shinazugawa: Wind Hashira, a hot-headed and impulsive swordsman with exceptional speed and agility.
Obanai Iguro: Serpent Hashira, a mysterious figure with a snake-like appearance and a sharp tongue.
Muichiro Tokito: Mist Hashira, a young and somewhat aloof swordsman with incredible speed and reflexes.
Shinobu Kocho: Insect Hashira, a petite and seemingly frail woman who specializes in poisons and intricate swordsmanship.
Mitsuri Kanroji: Love Hashira, a muscular and passionate woman with incredible strength and flexibility.

Former Hashira:

Kyojuro Rengoku: Flame Hashira, a powerful and charismatic swordsman who tragically perished in battle against the Upper Moon demons.

Tengen Uzui: Sound Hashira, a flamboyant and boisterous swordsman who retired due to severe injuries sustained in battle.

Kanae Kocho: Insect Hashira, Shinobu's older sister who was killed by the Upper Moon demon, Doma.

Leader of the Demon Slayer Corps

Kagaya Ubuyashiki, also known as Oyakata-sama, is the 97th leader of the Demon Slayer Corps and plays a crucial role in determining the Demon Slayer ranks.

He is a kind and wise man who deeply cares for his subordinates. Despite his frail appearance and illness, he is a powerful figure who has guided the Corps through many trials.

What is Kakushi?

The Kakushi are a vital, yet unseen, force behind the Demon Slayer Corps. While they do not engage in direct combat with demons, their contributions are indispensable. Their roles range from providing essential medical care to injured Demon Slayers to maintaining the Corps's operational efficiency.

They meticulously clean battlefields, ensuring that no trace of demonic activity remains. Additionally, they are responsible for the creation and repair of the distinctive uniforms worn by the Demon Slayers. Their dedication to supporting the Corps's mission is unwavering.

The Kakushi's anonymity is crucial to their effectiveness. By remaining hidden, they protect themselves from potential dangers and contribute to the Corps's overall secrecy.

Their work allows Demon Slayers to focus on their primary task of defeating demons without being burdened with logistical concerns. Ultimately, the Kakushi's tireless efforts are essential to the success of the Demon Slayer Corps.

What Is Tanjiro’s Rank?

Tanjiro's rank in Demon Slayer changes throughout the series as he progresses in his training and defeats demons.

Initially, he starts as a Mizunoto, the lowest rank. However, after significant battles and growth, he reaches the rank of Hinoe (third highest rank) by the start of the Infinite Castle Arc.

It's important to note that Tanjiro's strength and abilities often surpass his official rank, making him a formidable force even among the higher-ranked Demon Slayers.

As we've explored the intricate world of the Demon Slayer ranks, it's evident that the ranking system is more than just a hierarchy. It's a testament to the dedication, skill, and sacrifice of every member. By understanding the unique strengths and weaknesses of each level, we gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges they face and the heroic sacrifices they make. Follow Japan Figure and read more!