As the world of anime continues to evolve, few series have left as lasting an impact as “Rurouni Kenshin.” With its rich storytelling and beloved characters, the franchise has captivated audiences for over two decades. The recent revival of this classic through a new adaptation has reignited the passion of long-time fans while attracting a new generation of viewers. In this article, we will explore the details of the new series, including its premiere, upcoming season, and what fans can expect moving forward.

Rurouni Kenshin: A New Era Begins

The anime “Rurouni Kenshin” first aired over 23 years ago, from January 1996 to September 1998. Fast forward to July 6, 2023, a new adaptation titled “Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Kenkaku Romantan-” premiered, covering the “Tokyo Arc” and leading into the “Kyoto Arc,” culminating in its finale on December 14. The excitement doesn’t stop there; during the “Jump Festa 2024” held on December 17, it was announced that the second season, “Kyoto Turmoil,” will air in 2024. This article delves into the anticipated broadcast dates and content of the new season, alongside a recap of the first season’s details, episode count, and streaming services available.

Overview of Rurouni Kenshin

Based on Nobuhiro Watsuki’s manga, which has sold over 72 million copies, the anime “Rurouni Kenshin” has a rich history. The original series aired in 1996, followed by OVAs and films, leading to the new TV series that began in 2023. The official site describes this latest installment as a reimagining of the original story using cutting-edge animation technology, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Setting and Characters

The story is set in the Meiji era, ten years after the tumultuous Bakumatsu period. The protagonist, a wandering swordsman named Kenshin Himura, who bears a large cross-shaped scar on his left cheek, arrives in a peaceful Tokyo. There, he meets Kaoru Kamiya, the dojo’s instructor, and after saving her from trouble, he becomes a resident at the dojo. Although he appears gentle and avoids conflict, he is, in fact, the feared “Battousai” from the Bakumatsu.

When Will Season 2 Air?

Season 2 of “Rurouni Kenshin” is set to premiere on October 3, 2024, airing every Thursday at 24:55 JST on Fuji TV’s Noitamina block. This season will consist of two consecutive cours, similar to the first season.

Broadcast Schedule

• Fuji TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 24:55
• Kansai TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:55
• Tokai TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 26:04
• Akita TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:20
• Iwate Menkoi TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 24:55
• Sendai Broadcasting: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:30
• Sakuranbo Television: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 24:55
• Fukushima TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 24:55
• Niigata Sogo TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:50
• Shizuoka TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:30
• TV Shin Hiroshima: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 26:00
• Ehime TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:05
• Nippon TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:55
• Saga TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 24:55
• Kumamoto TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:45
• Kagoshima TV: Starting October 3, every Thursday at 25:30
• Hokkaido Cultural Broadcasting: Starting October 9, every Wednesday at 24:25
• San’in Chuo TV: Starting October 14, every Monday at 24:55
• Kochi Sansan TV: Starting October 31, every Thursday at 24:55
• Animax: Starting October 28, every Monday at 19:00 (Repeat: same day 27:00-27:30, Tuesday 6:30-7:00)

Streaming Availability

Season 2 will also be available for streaming. The earliest access will be on Prime Video, starting October 4, 2024, every Friday at 12:00 JST. Other platforms like ABEMA, dAnime Store, and U-NEXT will begin streaming on October 7, 2024, every Monday at 12:00 JST.

What Will Season 2 Cover?

Season 2 is expected to cover the “Kyoto Arc” of the original manga, which spans volumes 7 to 18. Given the previous season’s structure, it is anticipated that this season will consist of 23 episodes. The first season adapted the story from volumes 1 to 7, concluding with Kenshin’s departure from Tokyo to confront Shishio Makoto.

Voice Cast for Season 2

The main cast will reprise their roles, including Sōma Saitō as Kenshin Himura and Rie Takahashi as Kaoru Kamiya. New characters introduced in the first season finale will also have their voice actors revealed:

• Kenshin Himura: Sōma Saitō
• Kaoru Kamiya: Rie Takahashi
• Yahiko Myojin: Makoto Koichi
• Sanosuke Sagara: Taku Yashiro
• Megumi Takani: Saori Onishi
• Aoshi Shinomori: Yūma Uchida
• Hajime Saito: Satoshi Hino
• Misao Makimachi: Aya Yamane
• Makoto Shishio: Makoto Furukawa
• Sojiro Seta: Daiki Yamashita
• Yumi Komagata: Haruka Tomatsu
• Enishi Yukishiro: Wataru Hatano
• Jouji Sawa: Nobuhiko Okamoto

Production Team for Season 2

The production team remains consistent with the first season, with the animation studio being Leiden Films, known for works like “Tokyo Revengers.” The key staff includes:

• Director: Yuki Komada
• Series Composition & Script: Hideyuki Kurata
• Character Design: Terumi Nishii, Kazuo Watanabe
• Action Director: Katsunori Kikuchi
• Music: Yu Takami

Conclusion

The new anime adaptation of “Rurouni Kenshin” has successfully revived the beloved series, with the first season airing from July 6, 2023. The second season is set to continue the journey starting October 2024, featuring returning cast members and new characters. Fans are eagerly awaiting how the “Kyoto Arc” will unfold in this modern adaptation.