Rurouni Kenshin
Click here to go to the Rurouni Kenshin Picture Gallery!
Click here to go to the Kenshin Peeps Page!
Click here to go to the Kenshin Lines Page!
DID YOU KNOW:
Some Rurouni Kenshin Vocabulary
“Dosukoi!” = a word that sumo wrestlers yell before making a move
kodachi = a sword that is a cross between a full katana and a dagger (used by Aoshi Shinomori)
ohagi = Japanese mini-cakes, usually made of chocolate
aku = sin, evil
soku = swift
zan = to slay
ya're ya're = “Oh well!”
kake-sobe = Japanese noodle
Bakumatsu = The End of the Edo Dynasty
kyo = “sir”
kenpo = martial art skills
aho = ignorant, “moron”
choutou = long katana blade; equivalent of two kodachis with a long sheath
ohashiro = “boss”
taika-no = “anti-air”
kuukan = space (as in area, not “outer space”)
duishakunetsu = “big burning fire” (Shishio Makoto's room)
sudare = bamboo blinds
zantetsu = iron cutting
seisatsu youdatsu = “the right to kill or not to kill”
modoki = to copy
Kumi Tori = “National Domination”
Hakai-so = “fallen priest”; a priest who has broken God's commandments and failed in his "mission"
Myo Oh = “God of Mourning”
Niku-Daruma = “meaty-demon”
sakurotsu bombs = pineapple bombs
gari = “favorite”
fukuro = owl
onmitsu = “secret guard”
jin = “formation”
jutsu = “technique”
Okashira = “leader” (Misao's new self-given title)
Rorikon = “Lolita Complex”
Fusui = “Chinese Geomancer”
Eigou = “eternal”
Dajoukan = Congress
jakagami = “reflection”
shizume = “calming”
tohsha = a shrine
hachigame = "iron bandana" (what Shishio Makoto wears)
Okay, I'll give you the reason why there were so many "filler" episodes in Rurouni Kenshin. The manga writer for RK, Nobuhiro Watsuki, was finishing up another manga series of RK called the "Revenge" arc (RK is originally divided into "arcs", including the "Tokyo" arc and the "Kyoto" arc). Since he wasn't finished with the "Revenge" arc in time for it to be animated, he needed to buy some time for himself, so a lot of "filler" episodes were put on television (in Japan) so that Nobuhiro-san could have the time he needed to finish all the new mangas. Unfortunately, the "fillers" didn't get too much praise from television audiences, so the network decided to pull the plug on Rurouni Kenshin in 1997. ::sniff sniff:: Yeah, I know, it would have been great to see some more "non-filler" episodes of RK, but I guess that's how some animes work out. Sad, I know, but RK still proved to be a wonderful anime series.
Kenshin's real name is "Shinta"! You may think it's cute, but I think Kenshin prefers "Kenshin" a whole lot better.
The Akabeko is the choice restaurant for Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko, Sano, and their friends. It's also the same restaurant where Sanosuke owes a huge bill to Miss Tae that he never seemed to pay! Headed by Tae-san and her cute, young assistant Tsubame, Kenshin and his buds always love to dig in to a nice, steaming dish called "Beef Hot-Pot". And the name describes the food perfectly -- Beef Hot-Pot is a giant soup filled with beef, onions, potatoes, and spices. It is served from a large pot into smaller bowls, and it is best served hot with rice and various condiments. It sounds like a delicious dish...try it sometime!
You'll see Sanosuke and a number of other characters play a certain, fun dice game where you roll a pair of dice and try to determine whether your total roll will come out even or odd. This one game is the reason why Sanosuke never has enough money to pay his Akabeko bill ('cause obviously, he loses a lot!)! So he doesn't gamble as well as he fights...so what?
In most of the episodes of RK, you'll hear (or see) Kenshin ending all of his sentences in the "definitive". "I am", "I did", "I will", "you did", "you will", "it is", "that it is", "that they are", and "that we do" are some of the examples of definitive phrases that Kenshin ends his sentences with. He has quite a way of expressing himself, that he does! ^_^
The main reason my Kenshin is a wanderer is that he "doesn't want to stay in one place and watch his life pass by".
In one episode, to entertain cuties Ayame and Suzume, Kaoru juggles potatoes! Well, if she can't cook 'em, she'll juggle 'em!
Kaoru is known for her pretty hair ribbons that hold her hair up in the same, perpetual "female warrior" hairstyle. In one episode, Kaoru gives Kenshin her favorite indigo ribbon.
Kenshin is nicknamed the "Battousai" because he can do all of his Battoujutsu moves perfectly.
There's a Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu style of swordfighting, but did you know that Kenshin also has the Hiten Mitsurugi "Steak" style? In the episode where Yahiko trades places with Prince Shin for one day, Kenshin and his friends are eating dinner, and with his knife and fork in hand, Kenshin slices and dices his meat, as if the steak knife is a sakaba! The funniest thing about this episode is that Sanosuke has no experience in using metal eating utensils! Chopsticks are only for Sano!
Kaoru's grandfather was not only a swordfighter, but he was also an ink artist.
Megumi, who becomes an incredibly talented and serious doctor, performs an operation or two throughout the series. Because of her new-found devotion to the "medicinal arts" and her skills in being a doctor, she was nicknamed the "Rose of the Sewing Needle". She can cure almost everybody…except those who are lovesick!
Sanosuke has many bad habits. For one, he hardly changes his clothes. Yuck. Two, he calls Kaoru by two different names: "Missie" and "Jo-chan". Three, he always seems to chew on something (like a fish skeleton, a chopstick, or a toothpick), and when he's not chewing on something, he's either picking his nose or picking his ear. Four, he's incredibly lazy! (but that's ok with me.) Five...no, wait, let me stop at four. I've already talked about this guy enough!
During episode #17, the one with Marimo (the human bullet girl), Kenshin, Kaoru, Yahiko, and Sanosuke offer to help young Marimo by acting as performers in her father's circus. In this episode, everybody performs -- Kenshin balances balls on spinning parasols, Sanosuke sings a song about alcohol, and Kaoru becomes a knife thrower…and makes Kenshin and Sanosuke her "targets"! Not only does she change their names to "Sametarou" (Sano) and Samenosuke" (Kenshin), but when she is asked the question "Do you know what you're doing?" by the boys, she pauses and says: "Nope." Wow…we can't trust Kaoru in the kitchen or with knives! Episode #17 is very hilarious and filled with great action. Check it out!
These are the three things that Sanosuke really hates:
1. The Meiji Era (his master was killed during this time)
2. Taking pictures (he has some weird fear with new-fangled Western technology)
3. Steam locomotives (yeah, this shocks me, too!)
In one episode, Miss Tae sends Kenshin out on a search for a specific portrait of a man she admires (obviously not Sanosuke!). The name of the work is called Swordsman Hachiro Date by Tsunan Tsukioka, and the title shares the name of the man in the picture. Date was one of the handsomest swordsmen in the Meiji Revolution, as Tae-chan says.
Meiji 11 (May 14) is a very important date in the story of RK. This is the date when Kenshin has to face his most deadliest enemy, Shishio Makoto. This is also the time when Kenshin became a rurouni once again, leaving his lady Kaoru in a multitude of tears. Find out more about Shishio in the Kenshin Peeps page.
Misao is never afraid of a challenge...yet, she is afraid of spiders and caterpillars!
During the episode where Kenshin and Shishio are battling in near a petroleum factory, a dragonfly is seen fluttering in the air, and then…it burns up in the hot air. This symbolizes Shishio's "red-hot" personality, and how he wishes to be a petroleum mogul and go into the industry of owning all the petroleum in the world.
Did you know that Miss Sae has a twin? She sure does, and her name is Miss…Sae? They're like the Japanese Mowry twins!
Episode #66, "Happy Kaoru! Kenshin's Proposal", is a very funny episode. We learn that on Tahabata (July 7th), if a man gives an engagement ring to the one woman he loves, they will stay in love forever. Learning this, Kaoru hopes that she will receive a ring from Kenshin. Surprisingly enough, he does…but the ring was found in a very weird place -- a catfish. Yes, a catfish. Actually, the ring belonged to another guy who lost his ring in the water, trying to give it to his love on Tahabata. Now this is what I call a "fish story"!
There are nine points of attack in Budo (a.k.a. Kuzu Ryu Sen, the move before the Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki):
1. Karatake (head)
2. Kesagiri (left shoulder)
3. Sakagesa (right shoulder)
4. Hidari Nagi (left arm)
5. Migi Nagi (right arm)
6. Hidari Kiri (left waist)
7. Migi Kiri Age (right waist)
8. Saka Kaze (between the legs)
9. Tsuki (chest)
To prove how much faith Misao has in winning against various forces, Misao reads a magazine called Cheap Prices on Outlawed Weapons, issue #2, and she asks her friend Omasu how much a gatling gun costs on the black market. Where's the faith, huh?
Rengoku is the name of Shishio Makoto's mysterious and rickety ship, which is a part of his Tokyo Holocaust plan. Little does everyone know that the ship isn't really made out of wood -- it's disguised that way to hide its real, high-grade metal skin!
Aoshi, despite his cold stares and intimidating appearance, is really good with kids. Believe it or not, friends! Aoshi is great at making origami cranes, and entertaining kids in a quiet way. He did a great job taking care of Misao, and that's a couple pieces of proof that prove him to be great with the little ones. Would YOU trust your kids with Aoshi?
Sanosuke sings a couple times in the series. I've already mentioned that he sang a song about alcohol in the Marimo episode, but much later on in episode #78, he sings a song about Kenshin, and it goes a little something like this:
"He may look like a weakling…but his spirit can even raise great stones…ah, second verse!"
Yep, that's the song right there. You have to watch the subbed version of RK to enjoy Sanosuke's, um…interesting voice. Yep…interesting.
In episode #83, watch how Sanosuke and Yahiko deal with leeches!
Bats are used as "carrier pigeons" by ninjas (especially the Sanada Ninja). They may be creepy, but I prefer bats to pigeons…bats are smarter!
Kenshin fights against many a tough contender...his most outrageous opponent was his own zombie self! In episode #91, Kenshin fights a zombie version of himself. Creepy!
In the lost episode, Sanosuke repeats Jackie Gleason/Ralph Kramden's ("The Honeymooners") famous line, "…bang, zoom…to the moon!"
Here's some OAV information: The OAVs tell the story of Kenshin as a child (when his name was "Shinta") in the year 1864. Kenshin had to watch his mom being assassinated (she was slain in the throat), which brought Kenshin to tears and pain. Kenshin was saved by his sensei, Hiko Seijuro, who taught him everything he knows. Basically, we see Kenshin's life asa manslayer, and in addition, we see Saitoh Hajime's early life as a army clan master. Also, a girl named Tomoe appears in the OAVs, and she is so-called "drunken whore" that Kenshin helps out…and eventually, falls in love with (she pretends to be Kenshin's wife; Kenshin pretends to be an apothecary and acts as her husband to protect themselves from hunting assassins). Here's one more fact about the OAVs: Kenshin actually slayed Tomoe's real fiancé. And that's all you need to know about the OAVs!
Name one thing that Kenshin and Kaoru DON'T do throughout the 95 episodes (and the Samurai X movie). Survey says…::ding:: Number one answer is: Kiss! Yeah, there are a bunch of other things that Ken and Kaoru didn't do (don't get naughty thoughts in your mind!), but kissing has to be one of them. Amazing, huh? 95 episodes and no luck in the romantics department. Come on…even former manslayers should get smooched by their lovers every once in a while! Get the picture!
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Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin: Wandering Samurai
Copyright © 1996, 1997 Fuji TV Network, Inc./SPE Visual Works, Inc.
Samurai X: Rurouni Kenshin OVAs
Copyright © 1999 N. Watsuki/Shueisha/Fuji TV Network, Inc./SPE Visual Works, Inc.
English Language Version © 2000 A.D. Vision, Inc.
Samurai X: Rurouni Kenshin: The Movie
Copyright © 1997 N. Watsuki/Shueisha/Fuji TV Network, Inc./SPE Visual Works, Inc.
English Language Version © 2000 A.D. Vision, Inc.
Original Story by: Nobuhiro Watsuki (from Shueisha "Jump Comics")
Directed by: Kazuhiro Furumashi
Music by: Noriyaki Asakura
Produced by: Koji Kaneda (Fuji TV Network, Inc.), Mitshuhisa Hida (SPE Visual Works, Inc.) and Ayao Wakana (Studio Gallop)
Opening Song: “Sobakasu” (“Freckles”)
Lyrics by: Yuki
Composed by: Kaite Onda
Performed and Arranged by: Judy+Mary
Closing Song: “I Know Tears”
Lyrics by: Hiroshi Yamada
Composed by: Toshiaki Yamazaki
Arranged by: Takeo Miratsu
Performed by: Mayo Suzukaze
GENRE:
Action/Adventure/Ancient Times/Comedy/Drama/Romance/Sword fighting/Suspense
CHARACTERS (from Rurouni Kenshin, the OVAs, and Samurai X: Rurouni Kenshin):
Kenshin Himura (a.k.a. "Shinta", "Rurouni", "Hitokiri", or "Battousai the Manslayer"), Kaoru Kamiya, Yahiko Myojin, Sanosuke Sagara (a.k.a. "Zanza"), Dr. Gensai Kokuni, Ayame, Suzume, Ariotomo Yamagata, Gohei Hiruma, Gasuke the Manslayer, Jinei Udoh Kurogasa, Kanryu Takeda, Megumi Takani, Miss Tae, Tsubame, Comm. Aoshi Shinomori, the Oniwabans (Hyottoko, Beshimi, Shikijou, Hannya), Senryoyama, Toramaru, Dr. Raikou, Heihachirou Sasaki, Toma Sasaki, Hashizume, Tatewaki Shindou, Marimo (the "human cannonball girl"), Tekkan Onizaki, Gengo Onizaki, Yutaro, Raijuta Isugumi, Muraki, Shimizuya, Shura (Kairyu pirate leader), Yohei Senbonya, Gekki, Ginjo, Sarujiro, Saitoh Hajime (a.k.a. Fujita Goro), Okubo Toshimichi, Seta Soujiro, Shishio Makoto, Yumi Kotagama, Misao Makimachi, Tokio Hajime, Anji Yuukyuzan, Arai Seiku, Katana Gari Cho, Hoji, Hiko Seijuro, Eastern Division Juppon Gatana (Anji, Henya, Iwanbo), Magdaria (a.k.a. "Sayo"), Shouzo, Kaioh, Elsten, Santo, Nishida Hyoue, Prince Shin (of the Jakarta Republic), Notaro, Amakusa Shougu, Ogawa Heizo, Anzai Jurobei, Usui the Moken, Kamatori, Saizuchi-roujin, Fuji, Kurojo, Shirojo, Masukami, Oumine, Higashiyama Ryuzaburo, Okubo Tetsuma, Daigoro Okuma, Katsu Kaishu, Lord Yoshinobu (of the Beni Aoi), Saigo Takamori, Professor Hans, Misanagi Moriya (of the Sanada Ninja), Ren, Zan, Lt. Melders, 2nd Lt. Schneider, 2nd Lt. Renz, Tsukioka Tsunan, Saeki Yuunoshin, Jinpu (of the Wind clan), Reisui (of the Water clan), Commissioner Kawaji, Tomoe, Enishi, Shigure, Toki, Kejiki, Tamono, Gentatsu, Musashino, and some others not mentioned
SYNOPSIS:
In an ancient Japanese setting (the late 19th/early 20th century), a male samurai known as the “Battousai”, or "manslayer", leaves his bloody upbringing as a phenomenal swordsman to become a "rurouni" ("wanderer"), and to use his swordfighting techniques only to protect people, not to hurt people. In his wandering, he comes upon a dojo (a building mainly used for instruction in fighting techniques), headed by the lovely daughter of a famous swordsman. The "Battousai" befriends this woman, as well as numerous other characters, and with his reverse-edge sword, he protects all with his knowledge, understanding, and infinite kindness. Along the way, the "Battousai" meets numerous enemies that try to bring back his historic slayer spirit, and there are lots of twists and turns that he faces in his many adventures.
Let's take a trip back to the historical Meiji period of ancient Japan. This is a time of heavy, inequitable political rule, materialism, Imperialism, crime, and most of all, fighting. One of the most important figures in Japan at that time was the samurai - warriors that use swords for defense and in battle. Unfortunately, because of the uncontrollable political power that encompasses all of the country, the samurai are “dying out”, and a sword prohibition is in effect. Both of those created rules don't really come in handy, because the crime in Japan is atrocious. Who's going to stop all the insanity going on in the country, and return the peace, prosperity, and fairness (not to mention sanity!)? The answer: One man and one man only - he just happens to be a wanderer…with a sword! His name is Rurouni Kenshin, and he is the star of this epic anime saga (that undoubtedly shares the same name as the star - Rurouni Kenshin!).
Let's meet the man right now! Introducing Kenshin Himura, a redheaded male with a heart of gold. Known as the “Battousai”, “Battousai the Manslayer”, and “Hitokiri”, Kenshin used to be a bloodthirsty samurai in his adolescent years. Kenshin is known to be one of the best swordsmen ever, and his skill, talent, technique, and poise are unmatched by anyone. As an Imperialist who started the Meiji Revolution in the beginning of the Meiji era, Kenshin disappeared for a while during the end of the Tokugawa period (the period before the Meiji era), and he is considered to be one of Japan's most wanted for his slaying. Kenshin now seeks refuge from his past as an assassin, and he now decides to put his sword aside and start wandering. His nickname is “rurouni”, which is a Japanese term that means “wanderer” or “vagabond”. Ironically, that's what he is - a person that wanders from place to place. But here's the lowdown on this wanderer: Although he used to be an assassin samurai, Kenshin is really an awesome guy. He's kind, polite, gentle, thoughtful, supportive, very philosophical, and on top of all this, he's a great cook! He's a friend to the end, and with his sakaba (“reverse-blade”) sword, he only fights when he feels it's necessary. Kenshin is best known for his Hiten Mitsurugi style of swordfighting (ultrasonic sword technique), as well as the highly evident cross-scar that is found on his left cheek (you'll find out how he got that cross-scar later). Kenshin is also known for his silliness - yes, his silliness! What, do you think all ex-samurais are straight up cold-blooded? Not this one! In almost every crazy situation Kenshin encounters, his eyes bulge out and his mouth gapes down, ending with him saying his famous line, “Ororororoooo” - wow, bug-eyes and gibberish, it's a funny sight to see! Kenshin is a terrific person, and he now swears to protect the peace of Japan. By helping people out and saving lives, he hopes to truly make up for his horrible childhood, and all the lives that he destroyed. His personality alone can turn the worst people into his friends, which is sort of a cool “secret power” in itself.
As Kenshin continues his wandering ways, he comes across a dojo, which is a Japanese building where training in the martial arts and/or swordfighting takes place. The daughter of a famous swordsman heads this dojo - her name is Kaoru Kamiya. The lovely Kaoru is the assistant manager and head instructor at the Kamiya School of the Kamiya Kasshin Style, which is her (and her family's) style of swordfighting in which is intended to bring out the true potential of the student; the sword is a “revitalizing” tool, and it is used only for protecting people, not hurting them. Let's learn more about Kaoru: Obviously, she's suepr-kawaii (Japanese for “cute”), but Kaoru is also sweet, courteous, hard-working, smart, and she's a fantastic warrior and teacher; her teaching has won her the title of “the Rose of Swordsmanship” (or is that “swordswomanship”? Take your pick!). She may be the “Rose of Swordsmanship”, but unfortunately, she's not the “Rose of the Culinary Arts!” Kaoru is infamous for her imperfect skills in cooking, and she is often made fun of for that reason. Okay, so she's not great at whipping up non-oblong rice balls, but that doesn't mean we ignore her! Kaoru is also defensive, bossy, strong-willed (but weak at times), and she has a tendency of getting angry and jealous on the drop of a hat. Remember: Keep all alcoholic beverages away from this girl, because she will go super-haywire! Kenshin and Kaoru meet in the very first episode. Their relationship starts off pretty rocky, but as time passes, things smooth out, and their friendship for one another grows…and eventually, it blossoms into love. How sweet! Kenshin stays with Kaoru for a while, and as a token of appreciation, he usually does chores around the dojo, as well as Kaoru's house, like washing clothes, scrubbing floors, cooking, and other things. Kaoru's heart seems to be taken away by Kenshin, and their adventures together bring them nothing but new experiences and life lessons.
As the story of Rurouni Kenshin continues, Kenshin and Kaoru meet up with a lot of fun and interesting people (some are considered less fun and interesting). Now, let's meet one of the youngsters on the show. Yahiko Myojin used to be a smart-mouthed, brash, bratty, defensive kid who spent his life pickpocketing. When he came across Kenshin and saw his bright, perceptive attitude towards life, he decided to give up on his days of being a pickpocket, and to start learning how to be a sword fighter, under the teachings of Kaoru Kamiya. Now, Yahiko is a better person, and a student of the Kamiya Kasshin Style of swordfighting…unfortunately, he remained smart-mouthed, brash, bratty, and defensive…not to mention egotistical. Yahiko, an energetic kid with spiky hair and a yellow kimono, used to belong to a gang called the Shuei, who constantly lied to him to keep him pickpocketing for him. As a child who lost his father, Yahiko is mentally and emotionally broken down, yet he conceals his feelings quite well. Before he met Kenshin and Kaoru, Yahiko was living a really crappy life. Now that he's on the side of good, Yahiko proposes to be “stronger” and “better”, under the wisdom of his new friends. Yahiko can be a cool kid at times, but his mouth and antics can get him into some serious trouble - especially around Kaoru, because he's always calling her “ugly” and ridiculing her cooking for some reason…yeah, we know he's wrong! Yahiko is disrespectful, loud-mouthed, and hates to be called a “kid”, but in some cases, he can be a mature person (his heart is mature, folks…trust me). Things get really fun with this new person around!
Now, for one of my fave characters on the show…a man by the name of Sanosuke Sagara. He's the “tough guy” on the show, and as you know, all animes must have a “tough guy character”. This dude takes the cake! Sanosuke used to be an underworld fighter-for-hire; his codename was “Zanza” (not to be confused with one of the “Gung-ho Guns” from Trigun!). He was also a warrior with the Sekihoutais, a fake government army group. When he meets up with Kenshin, he decides to have a little match with him…dumb mistake, of course, since Kenshin nearly whooped his ass with his brawn…and his brains! Even with his Zanbatou (his gigantic broad-blade, sword-like weapon), Sanosuke was no match for Kenshin. After a while, Sanosuke decides to stop his days of being a fighter-for-hire, and to join Kenshin to fight by his side. Sanosuke is a real stickler for being the stereotypical “tough guy”. He loves to pick fights, and he loves to show off his strength. His relentless fighting spirit and incredible energy and stamina makes him one of the best fighters in the whole series. Sanosuke is described as strong, humorous, carefree, laid-back, and pretty much lazy. He freeloads wherever he goes, and when things go wrong, he never thinks twice - he just cracks his knuckles, prepares his fists, and gets ready to fight. In one episode, he defeats a guy with the flick of a finger. Now…that's scary. Sanosuke now lives with Kenshin, Kaoru, and Yahiko, and his main purpose around the house is to sit, relax, freeload, and make jokes. Yep…the average tough guy. Can't escape that! Still, he's a supporter of the side of good, a non-supporter of politics, and a nice addition to the Kenshin group.
Let's now meet the “foxy” lady of the series, Megumi Takani. This lady just screams “sexy”, with her slinky, jet-black hair, red lips, fox-like eyes, and graceful maturity. Unbelievably, Megumi used to be an opium maker. A woman like her…an opium maker? Believe it or not, she was…until the day she came across Kenshin. You see, Kenshin is sort of a “hero” to Megumi, since he saved her from committing suicide, due to all the drama going on in her life (remember…she makes opium, but she doesn't take opium!). Kenshin's words of wisdom turned Megumi into what she's now best at - a doctor. Megumi took her knowledge of being an apothecary and applied them to making good, beneficial medicines to make people feel better, as well as save their lives. Meg now lives in the area that Kenshin lives in, and she's the apprentice under Dr. Gensai Kokuni, an elderly general practitioner of surgery/internal medicine who owns his own clinic. Megumi is very intelligent, skillful, witty, sensual, a great cook, and a true sign of class, maturity, and elegance. At some points in the series, little kitsune (“fox”) ears pop out of her head whenever she makes a joke or acts in a very cunning manner - you'll see it a lot in the series. One more thing about Megumi is that she can make Kaoru pretty jealous - especially when she refers to Kenshin as “hers”! Nothing gets Kaoru more fired up (aside from sake) when “her man” Kenshin is being flirted by another woman (Hey…Kenshin really gets around, doesn't he?)! Megumi is another awesome female character in the series, and someone to look out for.
Speaking of Dr. Gensai, whom you read about in the previous paragraph, did you know that he's a grandfather? Yes, he is, and he should be proud of it, too, since he's the grandfather of the two most ADORABLE girls in anime history - Ayame and Suzume! These unbelievably cute, sweet, and playful girls are Dr. Gensai's little granddaughters. Ayame is the older of the two, and she sports a green kimono and longer hair (some of it in little braids). Suzume is the younger child, and she wears a pink kimono and her hair in little pigtails. As wonderful as children can be, these sweeties are very caring, welcoming and encouraging towards Kenshin and his friends (as well as any other permanent/non-permanent houseguests that Kaoru has). They love to play, eat, laugh, and just be as carefree as children should be. What's so cute about these two is that whenever Ayame says something, Suzume is very likely to follow up with repeating the same sentence or saying (or just on word) that her sister said. Cuteness is definitely in these two girls, and as Kenshin's (eternal!) playmates, they give Kenshin something to do…aside from Kaoru's chores!
Okay, I think I've listed most of the important characters in Rurouni Kenshin, but now it's time to take an imaginary trip to Kyoto, Japan to meet some other characters. And now, let me introduce you to…a weasel? Huh? Wait…not a weasel, but someone dubbed as the “weasel girl” of the series. Her name is Misao Makimachi, and she's a Kyoto native with a load of limitless spunk and power. She may not be anyone's idea of “perfect femininity”, but believe me, folks, she's 100% girl, no matter what! This Kyoto inhabitant is a 16 year-old ninja/warrior girl who used to rob the riches from people, using disguises and a sexy voice to trick individuals into their trust. With her Kaicho Geri kick, and her Kansutsu Tobi Kunai (her tiny daggers that fit in the spaces between her fingers), not to mention her skills in the martial arts (and running!) After having an unlikely run-in with Kenshin, Misao vows to fight on the side of good, although she is a member of the Oniwa Banshu, one of the most feared ninja groups in all of Tokyo. Misao, despite her tomboyish appearance, overreacted-ness and unyielding, get-up-and-go attitude, is a very enthusiastic, exuberant, bright-eyed and friendly girl who just craves respect and attention (she hates to be ignored...well, doesn't everybody?). Oh, by the way, don't ever say these two words to her: "Weasel Girl". Unless you have some top-notch life insurance, never use those words, because they insult her more than any line Don Rickles could throw! Think of it in this saying: "Giving insult will give you injury!" Misao never likes to be called "weasel girl" for some unidentified reason, but, hey, you wouldn't like it if you were called that, now would you? Misao stays true to her ninja heritage, despite her turning a new leaf and joining up with Kenshin and his group.
Well, that's about it for the good guys (and girls…not to mention some bad ones who turned good). If you're thinking that this is all the characters there are, think again! I didn't even name any villains on this page because there are so many characters! I've compiled a list of almost all the characters that you'll find in Rurouni Kenshin in a page called "Kenshin Peeps". Sounds cool, huh? Take a gander at the long list of people that you'll find in the many, many episodes of this epic anime.
Basically, this is a series about a samurai who used to kill, but now he only fights for good and vows never to kill again. That's not too easy for a guy with a sword, but don't forget -- Kenshin uses a sakaba, which is a reverse-blade sword. In other words, Kenshin can defeat his enemies with the blunt side of his sword, without using the sharp blade itself. That's very cool…I like characters who try to make a change in their life and do good to hopefully compensate for all the bad things that they have done in their past. Kenshin's definitely that kind of person, and his "samurai warmth and wisdom" is forever passed on to all the people that he meets. No wonder Kenshin makes so many friends…and can turn enemies into friends! A character like that deserves applause. ::claps:: Rurouni Kenshin, without a doubt, is an awesome anime series. Great characters, endless plot twists, and fantastic humor (not to mention all the SD's!). The one thing I love about Kenshin is that almost every fight scene involving Kenshin is theatrical, serious, and in some cases, quite breathtaking (minus the bloodshed and drama, of course). The only thing about the series that tends to bother a majority of otakus is that out of the 95 (!) episodes of Rurouni Kenshin, about 40 (!) of them are considered "filler" episodes. A "filler", by the way, is a term applied to an episode of an anime series that has nothing to do with the main plot. It's less than half, yet so many, still. I may also consider these episodes part of the "filler" category, but I was having too much of a good time enjoying the series to care. Luckily, RK had 95 episodes, so most of the series is on the "non-filler" side. Nevertheless, I simply loved Rurouni Kenshin. It's a true anime classic, and very well done. The DVD's and VHS's are out, and if you can, definitely pick this up -- you'll love the animation, characters, and neverending swordplay. Rurouni Kenshin is a winner, and don't forget to check out my other two "supplement" pages, "Kenshin Peeps" and "Kenshin Lines" for more Rurouni Kenshin fun.
Who says nice guys finish last? Kenshin Himura is #1 in this "all killer, some filler" anime!
AN ADDED SUPPLEMENT:
There are a large number of sword techniques mentioned and demonstrated throughout the entire run of Rurouni Kenshin. As an added supplement, I would like to show you a list of some of the many moves seen in the series, their distinctions, and who made them famous. Take a look at these:
TECHNIQUE
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USERS
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POWER
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Hiten Mitsurugi (Ryu)
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Kenshin, others
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ultrasonic swordfighting style
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Kamiya Kasshin
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Kaoru
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intended to bring out the true potential of the swordfighter; sword revitalizes the user and people are protected
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Jigen
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?
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a unique style that requires no more than one sword blow
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Nikaidou
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Kurogasa
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the sword has a way of freezing people in a state of fear and hypnosis
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Hyouki
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Kurogasa
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the "hidden" version of the Nikaidou method
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Battoujutsu
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Kenshin
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an attack that accelerates the blade by pulling it from the sheath and slaying the opponent with incredible speed
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Kaiten-kenbu
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Aoshi
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a triple-slash attack
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Jissen-kenbu
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Aoshi
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a slow attack is landed on the opponent, followed by rapid, liquid-like flowing moves that confuse the opponent
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Shin-ken
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?
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"the sword that believes"
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Hinoha Ittou/Shiden Blade
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H. Sasaki, T. Sasaki
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a stabbing with intense speed
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Myojin Kasshin/Shippuu Jinrai Dotou
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Yahiko
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?
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Shinsen Gumi/Hira-zuki
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Kenshin, Saitoh, others
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stands for "sinful swift slay", also known as the "horizon stab attack"
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Shinsen Gumi Gatotsu
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Kenshin, others
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the left-handed horizon attack form of the Shinsen Gumi
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Modoshi-giri
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?
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the technique of cutting something without destroying it, and then putting it back together as good as new
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Sakasa Chuku Nohtoh
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Katana Geri Cho
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catching the sword's scabbard with the sword
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Kuukan
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Soujiro
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stands for "space"
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Kuzu Ryu Sen
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Kenshin
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transition to the succession move Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki
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Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki
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Kenshin, Hiko
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the great succession move
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Homura Doma
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Shishio
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his serrated sword is powered up by human bodily oils
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EPISODE GUIDE - RUROUNI KENSHIN: WANDERING SAMURAI:
1. The Handsome Swordsman of Legend: A Man who Fights for Love
2. Kid Samurai: A Big Ordeal and a new Student
3. Swordsman of Sorrow: The Man who slays his Past
4. Bad! Introducing Sanosuke, Fighter-for-Hire
5. The Reverse-blade Sword vs. the Zan Batou: Beyond the Battle
6. The Appearance of Kurogasa: Visitor from the Shadows
7. Death match under the Moon! Protect the One you Love
8. A New Battle! The Mysterious Beauty from Nowhere
9. The Strongest Group of Ninjas: The Horrible Oniwaban Group
10. Aoshi: Someone so Beautiful it's Frightening!
11. Farewell, the Strongest Men: The Clash Between Light and Shadow
12. The Birth of a Junior Samurai: First Disciple Yahiko's Battle
13. You Can Do It! Toramaru's Dosukoi Journey
14. Save a Small Life: The Challenge of the Beautiful Doctor, Megumi
15. Assassination Group of Fire: Jinpuu Squad on the Run
16. A Promise from the Heart: The Secret Technique of the Shiden Renga Blade
17. Fly to your Dreams: The Adventures of Marimo, the Human Bullet
18. Run, Yahiko: Get the Reverse-Blade Sword Back
19. Raijuta's Ambition: Dream of a Forbidden Kingdom
20. Revival of the Shinku Style: The Technique Which Heralds a Storm
21. The Dissolution of a Nightmare: Raijuta's Ambition Concludes
22. First Train Ride: Danger on a Runaway Locomotive
23. Sanosuke's Betrayal: The Fateful Reunion
24. Midnight Fight! Sanosuke versus Kenshin Again!
25. The Crimson Pirate: Kenshin and Kaoru Separated!
26. Lightning Incarnate: The Noble and Mysterious Female Pirate, Shura
27. Ferocious Fighting Island! Scarlet Pirate
28: Prelude to a new Threat: The Shadow of the Wolf is Drawing Near
29. The Ultimate Lethal Rival! Waylay of the Desperate Fangs
30. Evil has its Revenge: Shishio Makoto's Devilish Plot
31. Can't get Close…Kenshin's Journey
32. Turning Tears into Courage! The Road Kamiya Kaoru Chose
33. Time to be the Strongest Warrior! Aoshi's New Battle!
34. The Little Thief: Makimachi Misao's Deceptive Looks!
35. Occupied Village: Shishio Draws Ever Closer!
36. After the End of the Dynasty: First Meeting of Kenshin and Shishio
37. Shock! The Reverse-Blade Sword is Broken…Soujiro, the Heavenly Sword versus Kenshin
38. Sanosuke, the Secret of Patience! Challenging the Hakai-So, Anji
39. The Man Who Forges a Sakaba: Arai Shakku's Final Masterpiece!
40. Cold-Blooded Assassin! Confronted with the Juppon Gatana, Cho
41. Succession Technique of Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu! Reunion, Shisho ("master") Hiko Seijuro
42. Alliance Agreed - Shishio and Aoshi United!
43. Between Life and Death: Succession Technique Mastered (Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki)
44. A Battle of Indignation - Gathering the Strongest Force, the Juppon Gatana!
45. Fly Like the Wind! Stopping the Sails of the Battleship Rengoku!
46. Burning Rengoku! Shishio Makoto's Fortune
47. Crush! Futae no Kiwam, Pain of Sanosuke's Past!
48. The Focus of his Guze, Anji's New Reflection
49. A Wolf uses the Shin Gan - Explosive Zero Gatotsu!
50. Keeping One's Promises - Kenshin and Aoshi Battle Once Again!
51. Now is the Time to Awaken - True and Final Outcome!
52. Miracle in the Making! Rumble at the Aoi-Ya
53. A Giant versus Superman! Saving Grace at the Edge of Despair.
54. Hiten versus Shukuchi. Soujiro, God's Gift to Nature
55. Tragedy in the Storm: Soujiro's Past
56. Fight to the Limit! Shun-Ten-Satsu versus Amakakeru-Ryu-no-Hirameki
57. Two Men Bet their lives on the End of the Dynasty…Shishio vs. Kenshin…the Final Battle!
58. Will the Era Inherit Shishio? Kenshin's most critical moment!
59. Luck hasn't run out yet! Ken-ki Revived Again
60. The One Who Permits Victory: Shishio versus Kenshin - Last Stage!
61. Remaining Juppon Gatana: Choice of Life!
62. Kyoto…Engraved Memory…Starting with Fulfilled Feelings
63. Legend of the Wishing Fireflies. The Girl who waits for her Sword Master
64. Prince Yahiko's Born? Debut on High Society
65. Find out Missing Treasure! Great Treasure hunting dog, Notaro
66. Happy Kaoru! Kenshin's Proposal!
67. Shining Legendary Sword! Mysterious Swordmaster, Amakusa Shougo
68. A Medallion of Destiny - Sanosuke and Sayo Meet
69. The Place of Battle, Shimabara! Judgment Day of Who is the Chooser
70. Impact of the Rai Ryu Sen! Kenshin is Sentenced to the Dark
71. Kaioh's Conspiracy: Shougo's Trapped
72. Reminiscent Days: Shougo and Sayo's Painful Past
73. Evil with a Sneer! Shouzo, Karyu's Damaged in the Explosion
74. Sanosuke's Tears - Eternal Separation Between them
75. Final Holy Battle Crash Together! Two Ama Kakeru Ryu no Hirameki
76. The Sea of Departure: Hope Will Surf Over the Sadness.
77. Himura Dojo in Shimonoseki? Another Battousai Appears
78. The Girl who Longs for her Art Student: Love Shock in Hakome Hot Springs
79. Katsu Kaishu and Kenshin - Fated Survivors from the end of the Edo Dynasty
80. Neverending of Edo Dynasty - Kaishu's Mission of Fate
81. Beni Aoi's Trap - Ghosts of the Edo Dynasty haunt Kaishu!
82. The Decision of Katsu Kaishu - The Truth Beyond the Era
83. Yutaro Returns - The Ambitions of the Black Knights Hide in the Shadows
84. Sanada Ninja and the Divine Medicine - Their Leader, Misanagi's, Goal
85. A Puzzling Journey - The Trap of Holy Crossing has been Laid!
86. Dancing Underground Red Day Fly Cutthroat! Sanada Sannin Shu
87. Schneider's Bet - Collapse of the Black Knights!
88: Two Other Directions Yahiko and Yutaro's Eternal Promise
89. To my Angel Misao - Special Delivery from Kyoto
90. Fusui's Surprise Attack! The Mystery of the Satanic Pentagram
91. Resist the Fusui's Magical Power - Next Target: the Kamiya Dojo!
92. Tokyo's Under Martial Law! Strike of the Spiral Weapon, Ryu Myaku
93. The Enemy Awaits in Senjo Gahara! Searching for the Hisui Crest
94. The Elegy of the Wind and the Water - Now they make Desperate Efforts Here!
95. Between Scarlet and Emerald are in the Boom of the Waves
THE LOST EPISODE: Wanderer's End (Original Finale)
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