Rurouni Kenshin (1996)
A legendary swordsman turned wandering protector navigates redemption in a rapidly changing Meiji-era Japan.
Rurouni Kenshin - Series Information
- Original Title: るろうに剣心 明治剣客浪漫譚
- First Air Year: 1996
- Last Air Year: 1998
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Animation, Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 25 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 94
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- First Air Date: January 10, 1996 (United States - TV-14), January 10, 1996 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: Fuji TV
- Production Companies: Studio Deen, Gallop, Fuji Television Network, SPE Visual Works, SME Visual Works
- Production Countries: Japan
- Alternative Titles: 浪客剑心：星霜篇 (CN), Rurouni Kenshin, El Guerrero Samurái (ES), るろうに剣心 (JP), 浪客劍心 (1996) (HK), 바람의 검심 -메이지 검객 낭만기- (KR), Rurouni Kenshin - The Chapter of Atonement (DE), Самурай Икс (RU), Kenshin, le vagabond : Le chapitre de la mémoire (FR)
Rurouni Kenshin - Plot
The Meiji Era was one of great renewal for Japan, where swords and killing were outlawed. However, many survivors from the time of Revolution still live, lurking in the shadows and waiting for a chance to use their killing blades again. Only Kenshin Himura, formerly one of the most brutal of killers, hopes to keep his swordsman's honor and still live in the new era.
Rurouni Kenshin - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a first look at the world of Kenshin Himura.
Where to Watch Rurouni Kenshin
Looking for where to watch Rurouni Kenshin?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Rurouni Kenshin - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Mayo Suzukaze
- Miki Fujitani
- Mina Tominaga
- Yuji Ueda
- Mika Doi
- Hirotaka Suzuoki
- Tomo Sakurai
- Yoshito Yasuhara
- Yoku Shioya
- Noriko Hidaka
Writers
- Yoshiyuki Suga
- Michiru Shimada
- Masashi Sogo
- Akemi Omode
Rurouni Kenshin - FAQs
Is Rurouni Kenshin based on a manga?
Yes. Rurouni Kenshin is directly adapted from Nobuhiro Watsuki's manga of the same name, serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1994 to 1999. The anime closely follows the manga's storylines, particularly the celebrated Kyoto Arc featuring antagonist Makoto Shishio.
Where can you stream Rurouni Kenshin (1996)?
Rurouni Kenshin (1996) is available to stream on Crunchyroll and other anime platforms depending on your region. You can compare all current viewing options, including subscription, rental, and purchase availability, on JustWatch for the most up-to-date regional information.
How many seasons and episodes does Rurouni Kenshin have?
The original 1996 series comprises 3 main seasons and 94 episodes in total. Season 1 (Wandering Samurai) has 27 episodes, Season 2 (Legend of Kyoto) has 35 episodes, and Season 3 (Tales of the Meiji) has 32 episodes, plus 9 special episodes.
Is the Legend of Kyoto arc the best season?
Season 2, the Legend of Kyoto arc, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of the 1996 series. It introduces the formidable villain Makoto Shishio and delivers intense battles, deeper character development, and emotionally resonant storytelling that cemented Rurouni Kenshin's reputation as a classic shonen anime.
Who are the main voice actors in Rurouni Kenshin?
The Japanese voice cast is led by Mayo Suzukaze as Kenshin Himura and Miki Fujitani as Kaoru Kamiya. Other principal voices include Mina Tominaga as Yahiko, Yuji Ueda as Sanosuke Sagara, Mika Doi as Megumi Takani, and Hirotaka Suzuoki as Hajime Saitô.
What is Rurouni Kenshin about?
Set in Meiji-era Japan, the series follows Kenshin Himura, a legendary assassin who has renounced killing and now wanders as a peaceful swordsman. Balancing action and heart, it explores themes of redemption, honor, and the cost of violence, earning strong critical praise for its storytelling and historical atmosphere.
When did Rurouni Kenshin first air?
Rurouni Kenshin premiered on January 10, 1996, on Fuji TV in Japan. The series ran until September 8, 1998, spanning three seasons. It later aired internationally and became one of the most recognized anime exports of the late 1990s.
What is the content rating for Rurouni Kenshin?
Rurouni Kenshin carries a TV-14 rating in the United States, indicating content that may be unsuitable for children under 14. The series features sword-based combat, themes of violence and death, and mature historical subject matter, though it is generally considered appropriate for teenagers and older viewers.
More About Rurouni Kenshin
Explore further details, ratings, and official records for Rurouni Kenshin on these trusted databases.