Japan is a country with a long-standing tradition in swordsmanship, which stems from the feudal shogunates where the samurai most often used swords to fight their opponents. Now, while swords aren’t always a heavily used trope in anime, there are a lot of series that actually focus on sword fighting, and in this article, we have decided to compose a list of the 20 best anime swordsmen of all time.
20. Levi Ackerman
Franchise: Attack on Titan
Levi Ackerman, head of the Survey Corps, is known as humanity’s toughest warrior because of his exceptional ability to eliminate titans. Despite being rather stern and occasionally grumpy, he has a particular fondness for cleanliness, which is tolerated by his companion, Lucero. Throughout the story, she demonstrates her unwavering affection for him, even though there’s a strong bond between Levi and Erwin (her father).
Prior to enlisting in the Corps, he had a reputation as a lawless troublemaker within the subterranean metropolis. The specifics about his age are vague, yet it’s suggested that he was approximately 30 years old. Later, he discovers that he belongs to the Ackerman family through his mother’s lineage, similar to Mikasa. This particular clan, of oriental descent, is notable for being the only ones whose memories were not wiped out by King Fritz; they resisted submitting to his rule and faced persecution towards near extinction, earning them the label as a “by-product of titan science”.
19. King Artoria Pendragon
Franchise: Fate
In a time known as the Legendary Era, Artoria Pendragon reigned supreme as the illustrious monarch of knights who dominated the battlefields. During her reign, she led the Knights of the Round Table, an elite group of knights renowned throughout history and immortalized in tales sung by bards. Among these mighty warriors, Artoria held a position unmatched in glory and strength, even surpassing the other powerful servants summoned from legend.
Despite Mordred’s exceptional abilities as a Servant, matching those of the Sabre class, her overall attributes fall short compared to her father’s. The disparity between them is so vast that Gawain boasts he could easily defeat Mordred without much effort, even at night when his strength is reduced threefold, a time when some believe he equals King Arthur himself.
18. Erza Scarlet
Franchise: Fairy Tail
Her sword-fighting abilities are exceptional, making her proficient at wielding the weapons conjured by her magic. She’s capable of slashing through Aria’s supposedly immaterial aura, and effortlessly deflects countless Evergreen needles using swords in both hands and feet. Remarkably, even without applying much force, these swords can cut through metal with just the air pressure generated by their oscillations.
Despite her petite and graceful build, she boasts an impressive physical power. This strength is evident in her frequent displays of lifting and moving objects that far surpass her own size and weight, which can be attributed to her habit of constantly carrying heavy luggage. Additionally, she has the ability to propel Midnight into a wall with nothing more than a swift wrist movement.
17. Himura Kenshin
Franchise: Rurouni Kenshin
In the era of Meiji, Kenshin transformed from a samurai into a wandering ronin, drifting through the landscape aimlessly. Despite his nomadic lifestyle, he remains armed with a katana, a choice that frequently lands him in conflicts with law enforcement, as the carrying of such weapons was forbidden since 1870. Notably, Kenshin’s sword has an unusual design – it is a reverse-bladed katana, which means he cannot take another life while wielding it in battle.
In another way of saying it: Although he could flip the sword around and use it, he refuses to do so because he made a vow never to take another life again, following the Meiji Era Restoration and its subsequent events where he killed. After supporting Kaoru in preserving her kendō dojo’s reputation, he consents to remain with her for a while, not as Battōsai, but as an ordinary traveler.
16. Kokushibou
Franchise: Demon Slayer
In the realm of movie-loving lore, I stand as one of the most formidable sword-wielding warriors – the strongest among the Twelve Moon Demons, outmatched only by Muzan Kibutsuji himself. As an ancient demon, I’ve engaged in countless battles with hunters, amassing a wealth of experience and wisdom on the art of combat.
As a Breath User with exceptional strength and reflexes bolstered by my Demon physiology, I found it effortless to unravel the techniques and abilities of at least two Pillars in battle. My prowess earned me victories against them, and even when I faced Gyomei, the strongest Demon Slayer within the Corps, our fight was on equal footing.
15. Clare
Franchise: Claymore
In the captivating world of “Claymore,” I find myself deeply moved by the story of the main protagonist, Claire. Her childhood, much like that of other claymores, was marred by an unimaginable trauma. She was held prisoner by a Yoma, who chose to keep her alive to avoid raising suspicion. The life-changing moment came when Therese, a fellow claymore, ended the life of her oppressor. Intrigued and grateful, I followed this brave claymore who had rescued me. An unexpected bond formed between us, despite her initial reservations. However, at the climax of one of our hunts, my mentor met an untimely end. Priscilla, in a twisted act of exaltation, beheaded her before my very eyes.
After a remarkable escape from those harrowing experiences, I stumbled upon the grandeur of the Louvre and presented him with the head of my former superior. Desperate for his assistance, I pleaded with him to transform me into a Claymore, incorporating the remains of Therese within myself. As the initial half-Claymore, I was labeled as number 47, perceived as weaker compared to others.
Eventually, my path crossed with that of a young lad named Raki. Over time and through our shared hardships, he became an integral part of my journey, mirroring the bond I once had during my youth. Gradually, our feelings for each other deepened.
14. Akame
Franchise: Akame ga Kill!
Akame belongs to the covert group Night Raid. Raised within a specialized assassin squad formed by the government for their interests, she was taken away from her younger sister during childhood in order to train without each other’s company.
Following numerous missions, she encounters Najenda. Akame then aligns herself with Night Raid, doing so after being persuaded by Najenda. An adept in swordplay, she is the strongest member of the team, and her skill is rivaled only by her voracious appetite. She seldom allows emotions to cloud her judgement, particularly during a fight. Wielding an imperial katana-like weapon, Murasame, she curses the blood of her victims, ensuring their demise.
13. Obanai Iguro
Franchise: Demon Slayer
In a remarkable feat, Iguro’s sword exhibits flexibility, allowing it to bend at any angle, despite being identical to others’. Remarkably, this blade slithers into narrow openings just as a snake might. As for Obanai, his right eye has been partially blind since birth, but he’s mastered a unique fighting style with his sword, Kaburamaru the snake. This exceptional weapon possesses an uncanny ability to sense incoming attacks and relay this intel to Obanai.
In its entirety, Obanai’s unique fighting style was revealed when he became completely blind due to Muzan’s influence. Remarkably, despite being blinded, he continued to fight with an unyielding determination as if nothing had transpired. During his confrontation with Muzan, after receiving guidance from Gyomei, Obanai managed to penetrate the Transparent World. Strikingly resilient, Obanai endured numerous wounds yet persisted in the battle longer than any other. Even under Muzan’s relentless onslaught, Obanai displayed immense strength, leaping over a towering building and miraculously recovering from Muzan’s piercing wall and crushing blows.
12. Roronoa Zoro
Franchise: One Piece
I’m a staunch admirer who can vouch for Zoro’s extraordinary swordsmanship. Even before joining the Straw Hat Pirates, he had already carved out a formidable reputation for himself. In the early stages of the series, he was none other than the acclaimed East Blue Pirate Hunter, striking terror and respect into the hearts of many. As the Supernova crew members at the Sabaody Archipelago would attest, he’s not the type to be bossed around. Furthermore, workers from Water 7 and Zambai echo this sentiment, stating that he possesses the strength worthy of a captain.
Zoro has developed and named a unique style of kendo known as Santoryu. Many people don’t underestimate his skills due to his intimidating demeanor – his chilling aura and piercing stare instill fear from the get-go, unlike characters such as Luffy or Sanji. According to the undead samurai Ryuma, Zoro is reminiscent of a wild beast. Brook also ranks him alongside Ryuma as possessing Destructive Power.
Among the characters we’ve seen, Zoro stands out as incredibly powerful without relying on a Devil Fruit like many others do. Instead, his strength comes solely from rigorous training and an unwavering willpower. Interestingly, he was once offered to join Baroque Works, but he declined the offer.
11. Guts
Franchise: Berserk
From the start, Guts is portrayed as a relentless war zealot, shaped by a ruthless childhood and the surrounding violence he endured and still encounters. His identity is intertwined with being a mercenary and warrior; he believes he’s incapable of anything else. Inside him burns an unstoppable fury and wrath, a wrath he tries to suppress within his heart to prevent harming those close to him, but it occasionally erupts.
In the aftermath of the triumphant conclusion of the Hundred Years’ War with the Falcon Band, I consciously chose isolation as my solace, having lost the few companions I ever truly knew. Yet, despite my best efforts, I remain unable to forge a path all my own.
When Puck chooses to trail him, even though he had vowed to slay him or asserted he didn’t genuinely intend to rescue him, it eventually leads to him accepting his presence. Upon reuniting with others, he discovers a sense of relief in their company following the Eclipse, rekindling the friendship and fellowship that Griffith had previously severed from him.
10. Yoriichi Tsugikuni
Franchise: Demon Slayer
In the annals of the series, Yoriichi is renowned as the most powerful character, excelling not only as a masterful swordsman but also as a skilled Demon Hunter. Born with the unique markings of a Demon Slayer and the Transparent World ability, he demonstrated his prodigious talent at an early age when he overpowered a seasoned sword instructor without formal training. This earned him the title of a miracle.
Following his Demon Hunter apprenticeship, Yoriichi successfully vanquished multiple demons. In an impressive solo effort, he nearly killed Muzan Kibutsuji and only allowed him to escape when death was imminent. Muzan viewed Yoriichi as a genuine monster. Just before his 85-year-old demise, he engaged in combat with his elder twin brother, who had transformed into a demon – Kokushibo.
Regardless of his advanced age and seemingly blind state, he swiftly seized control during the battle in just one stroke, even fatally slashing his brother’s throat before he succumbed. Kokushibo acknowledges that if Yoriichi had delivered a second blow prior to his demise, he would have been the one to perish, expressing awe at the fact that no one had yet equaled Yoriichi’s power.
9. Shanks
Franchise: One Piece
In historical records, Shanks is introduced as the initial Emperor and the charismatic Captain of the Red Crew, known as “the Red” due to his fiery red hair. Standing at an average height, he bears a scar on his left eye and has lost his left arm. Despite these physical imperfections, he exudes a carefree demeanor, is amiable, shows great respect, and is incredibly loyal to his companions. However, those who show disrespect or threaten him meet with his swift wrath, as such behavior is not tolerated by him.
The author suggests that when creating Shanks’ calm and aloof character, he may have drawn inspiration from himself. Notably, Shanks was the first character to show ambition, a trait that even allows him to cause damage to the environment around him. Furthermore, he is renowned for his exceptional swordsmanship, demonstrated by his ability to stand toe-to-toe with Dracule Mihawk, who is considered his close friend and rival.
8. Sōsuke Aizen
Franchise: Bleach
Sōsuke Aizen once served as captain of the 5th Division within the Gotei 13. He eventually departed from the Soul Society alongside his associates, Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tōsen. Previously, Momo Hinamori was his lieutenant while he himself was a lieutenant under Shinji Hirako in the same division. Aizen later led an insurrection against the Soul Society using an army of Arrancar, which resulted in his defeat at the hands of Ichigo Kurosaki. He was subsequently captured, sealed, and imprisoned for his transgressions by Kisuke Urahara.
From my perspective as a devoted fan, Kisuke Urahara has shared an interesting insight: since mastering the Hōgyoku, Aizen appears to have grown careless in battle. This is because, prior to mastering it, Urahara wouldn’t have been able to use such powerful Level 90 Kidō spells on Aizen. Aizen himself acknowledges that his newfound powers have emboldened him to lower his defenses.
This new power has led Aizen down a path of overconfidence and arrogance, often neglecting to consider the consequences of his attacks or defenses, or even bothering to understand the effects they might have on himself or his enemies – something he was more mindful of before.
After his release from Muken, he reverted back to his composed and tranquil demeanor, dismissing Shunsui Kyōraku’s compliments about his current skills, and altering his decision. He even consented to engage in a battle with Yhwach and aid Ichigo before heading back to Muken. He contradicts Yhwach’s ideology of merging the three realms of existence to eliminate the dread of death, arguing that humans would not have the audacity to confront such a threat in Yhwach’s realm.
7. Byakuya Kuchiki
Franchise: Bleach
Born into the Kuchiki lineage, Byakuya resided in the Kuchiki Villa within Seireitei. Devoting much of his youth to rigorous training, he aspired to assume command of his family. Frequently, Yoruichi Shihōin would drop by the Kuchiki Mansion for a friendly game of tag with Byakuya. Approximately 110 years ago, during one such visit, she was shown a training regimen by her grandfather, Ginrei Kuchiki, who happened to be a member of the same family.
Following their encounter with Yoruichi, he lashed out and made derogatory remarks towards her. In response, Yoruichi playfully taunted him, expressing annoyance at his less-than-warm welcome after she traveled to see him. Byakuya, clearly displeased by her presence, stated that he would ascend to the position of Kuchiki clan leader in due time, implying that he had more pressing matters to attend to than spending time with her.
6. Shinji Hirako
Franchise: Bleach
Shinji Hirako is the initial character who interacts with Ichigo. He’s outgoing and has a charm that suggests he could easily win someone over. Essentially, he provides Ichigo with information that Hiyori doesn’t and quickly resolves disputes. In a past life, he was the captain of the 5th division, with Aizen serving as his deputy. His shikai mirrors Aizen’s, providing him with the power to manipulate an opponent’s nervous system by effectively flipping all perceptions.
In a fake Karakura, he intends to confront Aizen, driven by vengeance for Hiyori, critically wounded at Aizen’s command by Gin. However, in the end, Aizen proves victorious. Later on, Hirako reclaimed his rank as captain of the fifth division.
5. Dracule Mihawk
Franchise: One Piece
Dracule Mihawk, also known as “Hawkeye,” is widely recognized as the world’s greatest swordsman. He stands tall with a lean physique, sporting a thin beard and mustache. In terms of personality, he prefers solitude, is generally quiet, and carries himself with an air of sternness and pride. He possesses a deep sense of honor.
As a film enthusiast, I’d describe this character’s weapon as an enormous black blade, famously known as the Black Sword, which stands among the elite Wazamono category, recognized worldwide for its unparalleled prowess. This sword has the uncanny ability to deflect bullets and cleave entire galleons in half, just like it effortlessly split the mighty fleet of fifty Creek ships.
4. Kisuke Urahara
Franchise: Bleach
Kisuke Urahara, a character shrouded in mystery, was expelled from Soul Society. Despite his past, he now operates a store selling Soul Society artifacts, primarily managed by Jinta Hanakari, Ururu Tsumigaya, and Tsukibashi Tessai – the latter being a former leader of the Necromancers and Kido Captain. Urahara has an enduring friendship with Yoruichi.
Urahara was permanently exiled from Soul Society due to his dangerous experiments and disagreements with its decisions regarding their outcomes. However, it’s important to note that he played a crucial role in preventing the Vizoreds from becoming Hollows, which is a key factor behind his exile.
3. Shunsui Kyōraku
Franchise: Bleach
Captain Shunsui Sakuranosuke Jirō Kyōraku leads the First Division and serves as Commander of the Gotei 13. His lieutenants are his niece, Nanao Ise, and Genshirō Okikiba. Previously, he was the captain of the Eighth Division. Shunsui is a man who values peace and will strive to negotiate rather than engage in battle, though he would never disrespect an opponent by refusing combat.
Despite Shunsui’s preference for resolving conflicts through dialogue, he is ready to fight when necessary, as demonstrated during his battle against Coyote Starrk. Even though Starrk suggested they merely simulate a fight, Shunsui declined, acknowledging his inclination towards the same approach. Shunsui upholds honor and integrity in combat, choosing not to engage in fights with children or in their presence.
Additionally, he abhors the act of ending the lives of innocent individuals, choosing instead to spare Chad when given the chance by Nanao. He consistently demonstrates a sense of respect towards his adversaries during conflicts, behaving courteously and favoring one-on-one battles. Even in intense confrontations with strong opponents such as Starrk or Aizen, Shunsui typically remains calm, engaging in casual conversation and even cracking jokes with them.
Shunsui, though powerful and experienced, remains humble and doesn’t boast excessively about his strength. He recognizes that Tōshirō Hitsugaya could surpass him in power with enough training. Yet, Shunsui carries a profound sense of guilt for the misfortunes suffered by those dear to him, like the death of his brother and the execution of Nanao’s mother. This burden feels too heavy for him to bear on his own.
2. Yhwach
Franchise: Bleach
Yhwach, frequently addressed as “Your Majesty” by his followers, serves as both the patriarch of the Quincy clan and the ruler of Wandenreich, bearing the title “A” – “The Almighty.” He is the offspring of the Soul King. Known for his professed affection for peace, Yhwach abhors conflict and advocates that painful battles should come to an end swiftly.
He greatly respects the initial squad of Gotei 13, for they were Shinigami capable of instilling fear within him. Among them, Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stood out as a figure he referred to as a demon, due to his harsh treatment of his subordinates, considering them insignificant like ashes. Yhwach harbors disdain for principles such as justice and honor, which is why he despises the perceived weakness of the Gotei 13 during the millennium of his absence.
Following the assimilation of Mimihagi’s abilities, Yhwach develops a series of black eyes that stretch along his left cheek to his chest, with his left eye now reversed in color. Once fully ingesting the Soul King, Yhwach is adorned with an ominous mask of eyes spanning across the top of his face, and he persistently emanates darkness. Over time, this darkness spreads across his entire body, concealing everything except for his hands, feet, knees, a portion of his face, and part of his chest.
1. Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto
Franchise: Bleach
Shigekuni Yamamoto Genryūsai serves as both captain of the First Division and Commander-in-Chief of Gotei 13. He is an elderly man with a bald head, long mustache, thick eyebrows, and a beard. Despite his advanced years, he maintains a powerful and muscular body, bearing numerous scars that tell tales of the countless battles he has fought.
His character is strong-willed and unyielding, holding a deep conviction that laws should be upheld no matter what. He established Shinigami Academy and trained Shunsui Kyōraku and Jūshirō Ukitake in martial arts, considering them almost like his own offspring.
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2025-05-22 19:00