Demon Slayer is filled with powerful warriors, but none stand out more than the elite swordsmen known as the Hashira. These skilled fighters dedicate their lives to battling demons, each wielding unique abilities and fighting styles that set them apart. As the highest-ranking members of the Demon Slayer Corps, the Hashira play a crucial role in the war against Muzan Kibutsuji and his demonic forces.
While all Hashira are incredibly strong, some stand above the rest in terms of combat prowess, strategy, and endurance. Their skills are honed through years of rigorous training and intense battles against formidable foes. From brute strength to unmatched agility, each Hashira has a distinct advantage that makes them invaluable to the Corps and deadly to their enemies.
In this ranking, we evaluate the Nine Hashira based on their power, contributions to the story, and overall impact. With that in mind, let’s look into who truly deserves the title of the strongest Hashira and what makes them such fearsome warriors.
1.Gyomei Himejima – The Stone Hashira
Gyomei Himejima (Image via Getty)
Gyomei Himejima is widely regarded as the strongest of the Nine Hashira. As the Stone Hashira, his strength, both physically and spiritually, is unmatched. Gyomei’s size and brute strength, coupled with his mastery of the Stone Breathing techniques, make him an extremely dangerous foe. However, it’s not just his physical prowess that places him at the top of the list. Gyomei also possesses an incredible sense of hearing, which allows him to detect even the slightest movements or sounds around him. This heightened awareness is especially useful in battle, making him nearly impossible to defeat.
Gyomei’s greatest battle occurs during the Demon Slayer’s final arc, where he fights against the Upper-Rank One Demon, Kokushibo. His unwavering determination and indomitable will to protect humanity earn him the title of the strongest Hashira in the series.
2.Kanao Tsuyuri – The Insect Hashira
Kanao Tsuyuri, the Insect Hashira, is another fierce and highly skilled warrior. As a highly trained swordswoman with impeccable speed and agility, Kanao excels in Insect Breathing , which incorporates fluid and unpredictable strikes designed to overwhelm enemies. Her expertise in the art of combat is complemented by her exceptional eyesight, which allows her to predict her opponent’s next move with uncanny accuracy.
Kanao’s ability to defeat powerful demons, particularly during the Infinity Castle arc, solidifies her position as one of the strongest Hashira. Her speed and tactical abilities make her a formidable opponent, able to hold her own against even the most powerful foes.
3.Kyojuro Rengoku – The Flame Hashira
Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, is known for his fierce determination and incredible skill in using Flame Breathing . His explosive and intense fighting style makes him one of the most fascinating characters in Demon Slayer . Rengoku’s ability to wield the power of flames at their fullest potential is seen during his fight with Akaza, one of the Upper-Rank demons. Although he meets a tragic end, Rengoku’s valor and sacrifice demonstrate his strength as a true warrior of the Corps.
His legacy lives on, and many fans regard him as one of the most memorable and powerful Hashira in the entire series.
4.Sanemi Shinazugawa – The Wind Hashira
Sanemi Shinazugawa (Image via Getty)
Sanemi Shinazugawa is the Wind Hashira, and his personality is as fierce as his combat skills. Known for his aggressive and no-nonsense approach, Sanemi wields wind-breathing techniques with unparalleled precision and ferocity. His remarkable speed and dexterity allow him to execute rapid attacks, leaving little room for his opponents to counter.
Though often seen as brash and hot-headed, Sanemi’s courage and resilience are undeniable. His fight with the Upper-Rank One Demon, Kokushibo, further demonstrates his raw power and sheer tenacity. Sanemi remains a fan favorite for his unapologetic nature and impressive combat prowess.
5.Mitsuri Kanroji – The Love Hashira
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, might seem deceptively delicate at first glance, but she is one of the most powerful members of the Hashira. Using the Love Breathing style, Mitsuri has a unique combination of strength, agility, and grace. Her fighting style is characterized by rapid and unpredictable movements, which make her difficult to catch or land a hit on.
Mitsuri’s physical strength is also extraordinary, as she can wield a sword that is significantly heavier than a standard blade. Her fight against the Upper-Rank Four Demon, Hantengu, proves her incredible endurance and battle capability, securing her place as one of the strongest Hashira.
6.Tengen Uzui – The Sound Hashira
Tengen Uzui, the Sound Hashira, is as flamboyant as he is strong. With his flashy combat style, Sound Breathing techniques, and explosive personality, Tengen brings both flair and power to the battlefield. His agility and speed are enhanced by his mastery of sound-based techniques, making him a highly effective fighter.
Tengen’s expertise is evident in his battles against the Upper-Rank Six Demons, where his strategic thinking and lightning-fast reflexes come into play. Though Tengen may not be the strongest in terms of raw power, his versatility and intellect make him a significant force to reckon with.
7.Muichiro Tokito – The Mist Hashira
Muichiro Tokito (Image via Getty)
Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, may appear aloof and indifferent, but his combat abilities are second to none. With the Mist Breathing techniques, Muichiro can create illusions and disorient his opponents, making him incredibly difficult to predict in battle. His quick reflexes and mastery of the sword allow him to land devastating strikes against even the most powerful demons.
Despite his young age, Muichiro is one of the most skilled swordsmen in the Corps, and his encounter with the Upper Rank Five Demon, Gyutaro, highlights his incredible abilities and his place among the strongest Hashira.
8.Shinobu Kocho – The Insect Hashira
Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, is known for her lethal techniques, which revolve around the use of poisons and precise strikes. While she lacks the raw physical strength of some of her counterparts, Shinobu’s combat style is built on agility, precision, and her expertise in the creation of poisons. Her Insect Breathing techniques allow her to move quickly and deliver devastating blows with a unique edge.
Shinobu’s ability to defeat powerful demons using her specialized combat style demonstrates her effectiveness as a Hashira, even if she doesn’t possess the brute strength of some of the other pillars.
9.Giyu Tomioka – The Water Hashira
Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, is the calm and collected warrior who represents the Water Breathing style. Known for his impeccable control and discipline, Giyu uses fluid, graceful movements in battle to dispatch demons with precision. His expertise in water techniques allows him to adapt to different fighting scenarios, making him a versatile and highly skilled warrior.
Though Giyu’s power may not be as overwhelming as some of the other Hashira, his strategic thinking, discipline, and cool-headed nature make him a crucial asset to the Corps. His battles against formidable demons showcase his resourcefulness and strength.
Though each Hashira possesses remarkable strength, Gyomei Himejima continues to stand as the strongest, a testament to his unparalleled combat abilities. The Hashira have left an enduring impact on Demon Slayer , influencing both their comrades and the fans who admire their unwavering dedication. Interestingly, the idea of the Hashira was inspired by historical samurai rankings, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their elite status.
[Updated: 03/30/2025]
Set during Japan’s Taishō era, Demon Slayer follows Tanjiro Kamado, whose family is killed by demons and whose sister Nezuko becomes one. To avenge his family and find a cure, Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps alongside allies Zenitsu and Inosuke, battling demons with unique “Breathing”-based swordsmanship. The series intensifies through televised seasons and films like Mugen Train, adapting arcs through Swordsmith Village and Hashira Training, leading up to the final Infinity Castle arc.
In the world of Jujutsu Kaisen, familial ties are rarely straightforward. Bloodlines intertwine with curses, and lineage is often manipulated by forces beyond human comprehension. Among the many mysteries that unfold throughout the series, one of the most intriguing is the relationship between Yuji Itadori and Choso. At first glance, they seem to be on opposing sides, but as the story progresses, their bond takes a surprising turn, leading fans to question the nature of their connection.
What makes their relationship even more compelling is the revelation that they share a common parent, though not in the traditional sense. Unlike typical brothers, their connection is steeped in cursed energy and the experiments of a sinister mastermind. Choso, a cursed spirit with deeply ingrained emotions, finds himself inexplicably drawn to Yuji, setting off a series of events that change both of their fates forever.
As we delve deeper into this fascinating dynamic, we’ll explore how Yuji and Choso’s shared lineage influences their actions, their struggles, and the overarching conflict in Jujutsu Kaisen. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer looking to understand the depth of their bond, this breakdown will shed light on the truth behind their connection and what it means for the story as a whole.
Who Are Yuji Itadori and Choso?
Itadori and Choso (Image via Getty)
Before we go into the intricacies of their shared bloodline, it’s essential to understand who these two characters are.
Yuji Itadori: The Protagonist with a Powerful Curse
Yuji Itadori is the main protagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen . He begins his journey as a regular high school student with an extraordinary physical ability, which quickly comes into play when he consumes a cursed object—a rotting finger of Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses. This act triggers a series of events that lead him into the world of jujutsu sorcery, where he becomes a vessel for Sukuna, carrying the curse inside him.
Yuji’s natural kindness and determination set him apart from other characters. He’s determined to help others, even at the cost of his own life. His bond with his friends and allies, including Satoru Gojo, Megumi Fushiguro, and Nobara Kugisaki, only deepens his character’s emotional complexity. However, his connection to Sukuna and his struggle with his identity as a vessel make his character arc compelling.
Choso: The Cursed Womb of a Human
Choso, on the other hand, is one of the cursed spirits who appears to have more human-like qualities. He is part of a group of cursed beings known as the Cursed Wombs, created by the mysterious villain Noritoshi Kamo. Choso and his brothers—specifically, the brothers in the Cursed Womb—are central to some of the story’s darker elements, which involve the creation and manipulation of curses.
Choso’s journey is complicated by his emotions and a desire for revenge, particularly after the death of his brothers. His path intertwines with Yuji’s when he comes to believe that Yuji is somehow related to his family, though the truth is more complex and layered than Choso initially realizes.
Are They Really Brothers?
Choso (Image via Getty)
The simple answer is: Yes, Yuji Itadori and Choso share a unique family connection. However, their relationship isn’t what one might expect based on traditional family dynamics.
The Truth About Their Parentage
Yuji and Choso’s relationship goes beyond the simple notion of being half-brothers or adopted siblings. Their common parent is not a typical biological parent but a key figure in the story’s larger curse-based narrative. The revelation is tied to their shared heritage as descendants of a powerful cursed lineage.
Yuji Itadori’s mother’s backstory, though tragic and not entirely fleshed out in the early parts of the series, plays a significant role in explaining this connection. It is revealed that Yuji’s mother had a deeper link to the world of curses than initially apparent. While much of this remains shrouded in mystery, hints from the story and Choso’s actions indicate that Yuji’s mother and Choso’s creation are intricately connected.
The fact that Yuji and Choso are bound by a common parent highlights the intricate web of relationships in Jujutsu Kaisen , with each character’s backstory playing a crucial role in how the narrative unfolds.
Choso’s Role in the Reveal
Choso’s emotional response when he realizes the connection between himself and Yuji speaks volumes. Initially, Choso is blinded by rage and sorrow over the deaths of his brothers. However, upon realizing that Yuji is tied to his bloodline, he faces a confusing internal struggle. Choso starts to see Yuji not as an enemy but as a figure who may share his pain and his family history.
This complicated relationship adds depth to Choso’s character, as it challenges his previous beliefs and motivations. His desire to protect his “brother” becomes more than just a matter of vengeance or familial duty—it becomes a crucial part of his identity.
The Impact of Their Relationship on the Story
Itadori (Image via Getty)
The unexpected bond between Yuji and Choso has major implications for the broader narrative of Jujutsu Kaisen . Their familial connection adds another layer to the already complex relationships between cursed beings, jujutsu sorcerers, and cursed objects.
A New Dynamic in the Fight Against Curses
Yuji’s already strained relationship with Sukuna becomes even more complicated with the revelation that he shares a bloodline with Choso. It introduces new dynamics in the fight against curses, as both characters now share a common history and a deeper connection to the cursed world.
Moreover, Choso’s belief in his family bond with Yuji gives him a more human side. This complicates his role in the story as a cursed spirit and forces both him and Yuji to question the nature of their existence.
An Emotional Tension
The emotional tension between Yuji and Choso is palpable. On one hand, Yuji’s struggle with Sukuna and his own morality contrasts with Choso’s thirst for vengeance. On the other hand, the bond they share gives rise to the potential for growth, understanding, and ultimately, a deeper alliance between them. This complexity makes their relationship a central part of the evolving plot.
Yuji Itadori and Choso are indeed connected through a shared bloodline, with their familial relationship unfolding as a key plot point in Jujutsu Kaisen . Their connection adds emotional depth to both characters, bringing a new layer of complexity to the series’ already intricate storyline. As we see Yuji and Choso’s paths cross and their relationship develop, it’s clear that their common parent plays an essential role in shaping their identities and motivations.
Interestingly, despite their unconventional bond, Choso’s protective instincts toward Yuji parallel the way he once cared for his fallen brothers, making their connection one of the most heartfelt and unexpected relationships in the series.
[Updated: 03/30/2025]
“Jujutsu Kaisen” is a dark fantasy manga and anime that follows Yuji Itadori, a high schooler who, after consuming a cursed object, gets into a face-off with Jujutsu sorcerers. Tasked with collecting all the cursed fragments of a powerful demon, Yuji teams up with other sorcerers to combat malevolent curses and uncover deeper mysteries.
