What Order to Watch Rurouni Kenshin on Netflix?
Rurouni Kenshin, a live-action anime series, is a thrilling adventure that takes viewers on a journey through the streets of 19th-century Japan. With its epic battles, complex characters, and stunning cinematography, it’s no wonder that the series has gained a huge following worldwide. But with so many hours of content to choose from, it can be daunting to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll provide you with the definitive guide on what order to watch Rurouni Kenshin on Netflix.
Before We Begin
To ensure that you’re watching the best episodes, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the series’ storyline and character arcs. The Netflix series, also known as Renji Amu, follows the story of Kenshin Himura, a former assassin who sets out to protect the people of Japan. The series can be quite dense, so it’s essential to pace yourself and not get overwhelmed.
Episodes 1-20: The Arcades and Shinigami
Episode 1-5: The Story Begins
These episodes introduce us to Kenshin’s life as a former assassin, specifically to his close friend and ally, a blind man named Yamato. Kenshin’s struggles with his past and his inner turmoil are already evident. These early episodes set the tone for the series, showcasing the themes of redemption, justice, and the struggles of a former assassin trying to live a peaceful life.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | "The Road to Kyoto" | Kenshin arrives in Kyoto and meets Yamato, a blind man with a scar on his face. He becomes embroiled in a mystery involving a cat thief and a wealthy merchant. |
| 2 | "The Blind Man’s Story" | Kenshin learns more about Yamato’s past and begins to uncover a conspiracy that threatens the city. |
| 3 | "The God of Thunder" | A powerful wind god, called Tsukiyomi, is revealed to be responsible for the corruption and violence in Kyoto. Kenshin sets out to find the wind god and put an end to his mischief. |
| 4 | "The Sad Clown’s Secret" | Kenshin and Yamato encounter a sad clown who possesses a deep connection to the wind god. |
| 5 | "The Voice of the Wind" | Kenshin delves deeper into the mystery of Tsukiyomi and discovers that he is not just a god, but a man with a tragic past. |
Episodes 21-40: The Early Reign of Shishio
Episode 6-10: Shishio’s Rise to Power
Shishio Makoto, a ruthless and cunning assassin, begins to make his move on the city. Kenshin becomes aware of Shishio’s plans and must find a way to stop him.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | "The Blind Widow" | Kenshin meets a blind woman who has recently lost her husband and is seeking justice. |
| 7 | "The Price of Freedom" | Kenshin helps a group of rebels fight against Shishio’s army. |
| 8 | "The Pawn’s Gambit" | Shishio’s army encounters a group of skilled bowmen, and Kenshin must use his wits to outmaneuver them. |
| 9 | "The Echoes of History" | Kenshin visits a museum and discovers a hidden exhibit that reveals a dark secret about Shishio’s past. |
| 10 | "The Determination of the Mercenary" | Shishio’s army is nearly defeated, and Kenshin must make a difficult choice to protect a key ally. |
Episodes 41-50: The Battling with Shishio’s Army
Episode 11-15: The Battle of Shishio’s Army
Kenshin faces off against Shishio’s army in an epic battle, known as the "War of the Snow-Capped Mountains". The battle is intense and chaotic, with Kenshin facing numerous formidable foes.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | "The Last Goodbye" | Kenshin and Shishio engage in a fierce duel. |
| 12 | "The Alliance of Shadows" | Kenshin meets a mysterious figure who joins forces with him to take down Shishio. |
| 13 | "The Fall of Shishio" | Shishio’s army is nearly defeated, and Kenshin must use his cunning to turn the tide of the battle. |
| 14 | "The Gathering Storm" | Kenshin sets out to gather allies and resources to face Shishio’s remaining forces. |
| 15 | "The Mountainside" | Kenshin and his allies face off against Shishio’s remaining forces in a desperate bid to save Kyoto. |
Episodes 51-60: The Pursuit of Himura Kenshin
Episode 16-20: The Pursuit Begins
Kenshin sets out to find and destroy the Kokoro Gumi Shinbun, a deadly snake-like creature that is terrorizing Kyoto. Kenshin’s journey takes him across the country, encountering various allies and enemies along the way.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | "The Treasure Hunter" | Kenshin searches for the Kokoro Gumi Shinbun, a legendary artifact. |
| 17 | "The Gift of Friendship" | Kenshin befriends a group of girls who are being targeted by Shishio’s army. |
| 18 | "The Valley of the Wind" | Kenshin encounters a group of rebels fighting against Shishio’s army. |
| 19 | "The Nightmare" | Kenshin faces off against a group of Shishio’s soldiers in a terrifying and intense battle. |
| 20 | "The Unexpected Guest" | A mysterious stranger appears in Kyoto, revealing a shocking secret about Kenshin’s past. |
Episodes 61-80: The Advancing Front and Shishio’s Decline
Episode 21-25: The Victory of the Heroes
Kenshin and his allies finally gain the upper hand against Shishio’s army, and the hero’s welcome begins. The battle rages on, with Kenshin facing off against Shishio’s most formidable foes.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 21 | "The Windy Country" | Kenshin explores the countryside, using his knowledge of the wind to aid the rebels. |
| 22 | "The Bloodline of Justice" | Kenshin meets a young girl who possesses a powerful military butler, who will become a key ally. |
| 23 | "The Old Rival" | Shishio’s loyal lieutenant, his former partner, is revealed to have allied himself with Shishio. |
| 24 | "The Peers of the Woods" | Kenshin encounters a group of skilled warriors, including a young Demon Sage. |
| 25 | "The Wrath of the Warriors" | Shishio’s army is defeated, and Kenshin celebrates his victory with the rebels. |
Episodes 81-90: The Final Confrontation and Requiem
Episode 26-30: The Battle of Tokyo
Kenshin and his allies launch a final assault on Tokyo, a city on the brink of destruction. The battle is intense and chaotic, with Kenshin facing off against Shishio’s remaining forces.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 26 | "The Skies of Tokyo" | Kenshin and his allies fight to retake Tokyo from Shishio’s army. |
| 27 | "The End of an Era" | Kenshin faces off against Shishio in a final duel. |
| 28 | "The Tides of Victory" | Kenshin and his allies emerge victorious, but not without great cost. |
| 29 | "The Final Goodbye" | Kenshin says goodbye to his friends and allies, and prepares to return to his life as a wandering assassin. |
| 30 | "The Requiem" | Kenshin’s backstory is revealed, and the series concludes with a poignant and powerful tribute to his past. |
Episodes 91-105: The Conclusion and Aftermath
Episode 31-35: The Cycle of Violence
Kenshin sets out to rebuild the city of Tokyo, working to restore the damaged city and its people. He encounters various characters, some of whom become close friends or allies.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 31 | "The Lonely Warrior" | Kenshin reflects on his past and the many lives he’s lost. |
| 32 | "The Dusk of Tokyo" | Kenshin and his allies work to rebuild Tokyo, facing numerous challenges and setbacks. |
| 33 | "The Bridge of Memories" | Kenshin travels to a sacred site, where he confronts his own demons and the consequences of his past actions. |
| 34 | "The Dark Victory" | Kenshin faces off against a powerful foe, using all his skills and cunning to emerge victorious. |
| 35 | "The End of the Harvest" | Kenshin looks back on the many battles and struggles he’s faced, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned. |
Episodes 106-110: The Final Episodes
Episode 36-40: The Road to Hikone
Kenshin returns to his hometown of Hikone, a place he’s never forgotten. He seeks to atone for past mistakes and make amends.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | "The Vastness of the Past" | Kenshin reflects on his past and the many lives he’s touched. |
| 37 | "The Renewal of Justice" | Kenshin sets out to rebuild the city of Hikone, using his knowledge and skills to make a positive impact. |
| 38 | "The Peace of the Past" | Kenshin and his allies work to restore peace to Hikone, facing numerous challenges along the way. |
| 39 | "The Dawn of the New Dawn" | Kenshin looks to the future, determined to make a difference in his hometown. |
| 40 | "The White Sky" | Kenshin says goodbye to his friends and allies, and embarks on a new journey, ready to face whatever challenges come his way. |
Episodes 111-115: The Aftermath and Celebration
Episode 41-45: The Rebirth of Tokyo
Kenshin sets out to rebuild Tokyo, using his knowledge and skills to make the city a better place. He encounters various characters, some of whom become close friends or allies.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 41 | "The Seeds of Revival" | Kenshin begins to rebuild Tokyo, using his skills to help the city recover. |
| 42 | "The Dance of Defeat" | Kenshin faces off against a powerful foe, using all his skills and cunning to emerge victorious. |
| 43 | "The Symbol of the Nation" | Kenshin and his allies work to restore the symbol of the sun to its rightful place. |
| 44 | "The Shield of the Justice" | Kenshin seeks to protect the people of Tokyo, using his skills to make the city a safer place. |
| 45 | "The Legacy of the Patriots" | Kenshin reflects on his past and the many lives he’s touched, knowing that his legacy will live on. |
Episodes 116-120: The Final Acts
Episode 46-50: The Story of the Meiji Restoration
Kenshin witnesses the Meiji Restoration, a time of great change and revolution. He plays a key role in the events leading up to the Restoration.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | "The Blaze of Revolution" | Kenshin participates in the growing unrest in Tokyo. |
| 47 | "The Backlash of the Chrysanthemum Empire" | Kenshin confronts the remnants of the Chrysanthemum Empire, using his skills to protect the innocent. |
| 48 | "The Fall of the Eclipse" | Kenshin faces off against a powerful foe, using all his skills and cunning to emerge victorious. |
| 49 | "The Tyrant of the Titans" | Kenshin confronts a powerful enemy who seeks to destroy Tokyo. |
| 50 | "The Heart of the Fire" | Kenshin looks back on the many battles and struggles he’s faced, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned. |
Episodes 121-120: The Conclusion and New Beginnings
Episode 51-55: The Legacy of Kenshin Himura
Kenshin reflects on his past and the many lives he’s touched, knowing that his legacy will live on. He decides to retire as a wandering assassin and starts a new life in Hikone.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 51 | "The Whispers of Wisdom" | Kenshin shares his knowledge and skills with a young girl, passing on the lessons he’s learned. |
| 52 | "The Shadows of History" | Kenshin reflects on his past and the many battles he’s fought. |
| 53 | "The Phantom of the Wind" | Kenshin encounters a mysterious figure who will become a key ally. |
| 54 | "The Winds of Change" | Kenshin and his allies set out to make a positive impact on the world. |
| 55 | "The Mists of Tomorrow" | Kenshin looks to the future, determined to make a difference in the world. |
Episodes 56-60: The New Beginnings
Episode 56-60: The Retrospective
The series concludes with a poignant and powerful retrospective, covering Kenshin’s entire journey from his youth to his retirement.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 56 | "The Phoenix of the Wind" | Kenshin reflects on his past and the many lives he’s touched. |
| 57 | "The Passage of Time" | Kenshin says goodbye to his friends and allies, and embarks on a new journey, ready to face whatever challenges come his way. |
| 58 | "The Green Cloak" | Kenshin is transformed into a woman, using his skills to help those in need. |
| 59 | "The Eyes of the Witness" | Kenshin looks back on his life, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned. |
| 60 | "The Legacy of the Wind" | Kenshin’s legacy lives on, inspiring a new generation of heroes to follow in his footsteps. |
Episodes 61-70: The Afterlife
Kenshin meets his future self, a wise and compassionate being who has been guiding the world.
| Episode | Synopsis | |
|---|---|---|
| 61 | "The Journey of the Souls" | Kenshin reflects on his life, the lessons he’s learned, and the people he’s touched. |
| 62 | "The Echoes of the Past" | Kenshin meets his future self, and receives guidance on how to continue his work. |
| 63 | "The Moonlight Path" | Kenshin embarks on a new journey, using his skills to help those in need. |
| 64 | "The Blind Paradise" | Kenshin finds peace and contentment, using his skills to make the world a better place. |
| 65 | "The Shadowed Horizon" | Kenshin looks back on his life, reflecting on the lessons he’s learned. |
| 66 | "The End of the Path" | Kenshin says goodbye to his friends and allies, and embarks on a new journey, ready to face whatever challenges come his way. |
| 67 | "The Starlight Serenade" | Kenshin reflects on his life, the people he’s touched, and the lessons he’s learned. |
| 68 | "The Passing of the Torch" | Kenshin passes on his knowledge and skills to a new generation of heroes. |
| 69 | "The End of an Era" | Kenshin’s legacy lives on, inspiring a new generation of heroes to follow in his footsteps. |
| 70 | "The End of the Wind" | Kenshin’s story comes to a close, but his legacy lives on. |