Samurai Kid (1964)
A pioneering 1964 Japanese ninja anime from Toei Animation, featuring early work by a young Hayao Miyazaki.
Samurai Kid - Series Information
- Original Title: 少年忍者風のフジ丸
- First Air Year: 1964
- Last Air Year: 1965
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (30 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 65
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Networks: NET
- Production Companies: Toei Animation
- Production Countries: Japan
- Alternative Titles: Fujimaru of the Wind (US), Shounen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru (JP)
Samurai Kid - Plot
Shōnen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru, also known as Samurai Kid, is a Japanese anime series produced by Toei Animation. 65 episodes aired from 7 June 1964 until 31 August 1965. It tells the story of a ninja's pupil that controlled the wind. It was inspired by the manga 'Kaze no Ishimaru' by Sanpei Shirato and was animated by Yasuji Mori and Hayao Miyazaki. The anime was renamed "Kaze no Fujimaru" in order to associate it with its sponsor, Fujisawa Pharmaceuticals. The opening theme, 'Shōnen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru' and the closing theme, 'Tatakau Shōnen Ninja', were both performed by the Nishirokugo Boy's Choir. The series originally ended with a repeat of the opening; the separate ending song came later.
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Samurai Kid - Cast & Crew
Writers
- Sanpei Shirato
Samurai Kid - FAQs
What is the story behind Samurai Kid?
Samurai Kid follows a young ninja apprentice gifted with the power to control the wind. Produced by Toei Animation and airing across 65 episodes from 1964 to 1965, the series blends classic ninja adventure with coming-of-age themes rooted in Sanpei Shirato's original manga.
Is Samurai Kid based on a manga?
The series draws directly from 'Kaze no Ishimaru,' a manga by celebrated Japanese artist Sanpei Shirato. The adaptation was retitled 'Kaze no Fujimaru' to align with its sponsor, Fujisawa Pharmaceuticals, before being released internationally as Samurai Kid.
Did Hayao Miyazaki work on Samurai Kid?
Samurai Kid stands as one of Hayao Miyazaki's earliest professional credits. The future Studio Ghibli co-founder contributed animation work alongside Yasuji Mori at Toei Animation, making this 1964 series a fascinating piece of anime history for fans of Miyazaki's legendary career.
How many episodes does Samurai Kid have?
The series ran for 65 episodes across a single season, airing on the NET network in Japan from June 7, 1964 through August 31, 1965. Each episode runs approximately 30 minutes, making the complete run just over 32 hours of classic ninja animation.
Where can I watch Samurai Kid online?
Samurai Kid is a vintage 1964 anime, so mainstream streaming availability is limited. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date regional viewing options. Dedicated classic anime platforms and specialty import services may also carry episodes or related releases.
Who created the music for Samurai Kid?
The opening theme 'Shōnen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru' and the closing theme 'Tatakau Shōnen Ninja' were both performed by the Nishirokugo Boy's Choir. The series originally concluded with a repeat of the opening theme before a distinct ending song was introduced later.
What are some anime series similar to Samurai Kid?
Fans of Samurai Kid may enjoy Ninja Boy Rantaro, Ronin Warriors, and Ninja Kamui for their ninja and samurai themes. Golden Kamuy and Garouden: The Way of the Lone Wolf offer similarly action-driven storytelling rooted in Japanese martial tradition and historical atmosphere.
Why was the anime renamed Kaze no Fujimaru?
The original title 'Shōnen Ninja Kaze no Fujimaru' was shortened and adjusted to 'Kaze no Fujimaru' at the request of its sponsor, Fujisawa Pharmaceuticals, who wanted the protagonist's name to echo their brand identity. The international release adopted the title Samurai Kid.
More About Samurai Kid
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