In the world of Demon Slayer, death is as inevitable as the setting sun. Demon Slayers fight tirelessly, wielding their Nichirin blades against powerful demons, knowing that every battle could be their last.
As the story unfolds, it delivers some of the saddest deaths in Demon Slayer, moments that leave both characters and fans grieving. The series, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, doesn’t shy away from tragedy, making each loss feel deeply personal and unforgettable.
The Demon Slayer Mugen Train movie shattered records worldwide, proving that fans weren’t just drawn to its breathtaking animation and the emotional weight carried by its characters.
Among the most devastating moments in the series are the deaths of fearless Hashira and fallen demons who once had human hearts. Regardless of their allegiance, these characters fought for something greater than themselves, and their tragic ends only add to the legend they leave behind.
Warning: Major spoilers for those who have yet to start watching the Demon Slayer anime or haven’t finished reading the Demon Slayer manga.
5 saddest deaths in Demon Slayer
Throughout Demon Slayer, many characters meet tragic ends, but some deaths leave a lasting impact due to their emotional weight and significance to the story.
Here are the five saddest deaths in Demon Slayer.
5. Kyojuro Rengoku
Kyojuro Rengoku, the Flame Hashira, was the epitome of honor, strength, and unwavering resolve. With his infectious enthusiasm and kind heart, he stood as a beacon of inspiration for his comrades and those he protected.
During the Mugen Train arc, Kyojuro and his fellow Demon Slayers successfully defeated Enmu, the Lower Rank One of the Twelve Demon Moons, but their relief was short-lived. Akaza, the Upper Rank Three, appeared after the battle, challenging Kyojuro to fight to the death.
Despite being at a disadvantage against Akaza’s overwhelming power and regenerative abilities, Kyojuro refused to back down. He fought valiantly, pushing his limits and nearly immobilizing Akaza before succumbing to his wounds.
Kyojuro’s death was devastating, as he had not only defended Tanjiro, Inosuke, and Zenitsu but had also proven himself as a true Hashira to the very end.
As the sun rose, Akaza fled, and Kyojuro’s final words profoundly impacted Tanjiro and his companions. His death was a tragic loss, not only for the Demon Slayer Corps but for fans who had grown attached to his unwavering spirit.
4. Muichiro Tokito
Muichiro Tokito, the Mist Hashira, was a prodigy within the Demon Slayer Corps, becoming a Hashira at just 14 years of age. Though initially detached and aloof, he rediscovered his purpose and fought for the memory of his lost twin brother, Yuichiro.
Muichiro’s lineage was tied to greatness—he was a descendant of Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the strongest Demon Slayer in history. However, despite his immense potential, his time was cut tragically short during the battle against Kokushibo, Upper Rank One.
In the Infinity Castle Arc, Muichiro confronted Kokushibo alongside the Shinazugawa brothers, Genya and Sanemi, the Wind Hashira. Despite being gravely injured, Muichiro managed to land a critical blow, piercing Kokushibo with his Nichirin blade.
Muichiro’s sacrifice played a key role in the demon’s eventual defeat, but it came at the cost of his life. His death was particularly heartbreaking because he was only beginning to unlock his true strength. He died knowing he had honored his family’s legacy, yet fans couldn’t help but mourn the loss of someone so young with so much left to accomplish.
3. Shinobu Kocho
Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, was one of the most unique and cunning fighters in Demon Slayer. Unlike other Hashira, she lacked the physical strength to decapitate demons, relying instead on her intelligence, agility, and lethal wisteria-based poison. However, her cheerful demeanor masked the deep sorrow she carried—the murder of her elder sister, Kanae Kocho, at the hands of Doma, Upper Rank Two.
Shinobu’s quest for vengeance led to one of the most heartbreaking deaths in the series. She engaged in a desperate battle against Doma, knowing she could not win in a confrontation.
Instead, she orchestrated a self-sacrificial plan, having filled her body with an immense amount of poison so that when Doma absorbed her, the toxin would take effect. Though she ultimately perished, her death was not in vain—her sacrifice weakened Doma enough for Kanao Tsuyuri and Inosuke Hashibira to land the final blows.
Shinobu’s tragic demise resonated deeply with fans, as she had carried her sister’s will until the very end, using her death as the ultimate weapon against evil.
2. Obanai Iguro and Mitsuri Kanroji
Obanai Iguro, the Serpent Hashira, and Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, had one of the most tragic relationships in Demon Slayer. While they harbored deep affection for one another, their circumstances as Demon Slayers never allowed them to express their feelings freely.
Both fought valiantly in the final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji, sustaining fatal injuries while doing everything in their power to end his reign of terror. As Muzan was finally defeated, Obanai and Mitsuri shared their last moments, expressing what they had long kept in their hearts.
Mitsuri, with tears in her eyes, regretted not having more time with Obanai. But Obanai reassured her that in their next life, they could live freely and be happy together.
Their deaths were made all the more tragic by their unfulfilled love—a bittersweet farewell that left a lasting impact on both the characters and the audience.
1. Akaza
While Akaza was responsible for the death of Kyojuro Rengoku, his demise was one of the most heartbreaking in Demon Slayer. As a demon, Akaza was a brutal and relentless warrior, but his past as a human, Hakuji, revealed a man who had once fought only to protect those he loved.
Before becoming a demon, Hakuji was a skilled martial artist who cared deeply for his fiancée, Koyuki, and his master. However, after their tragic murder, he was consumed by grief and rage, which led to his transformation into a demon by Muzan Kibutsuji.
In his final battle against Tanjiro Kamado and Giyu Tomioka, Akaza began to regain his human memories. The realization of what he had lost overwhelmed him with regret.
Instead of continuing to fight, he chose to self-destruct, allowing himself to be consumed by his guilt and memories. His decision to end his existence was one of the most tragic moments in the series, showcasing the deep sorrow that had plagued him even in his demonic form.
Unlike many demons who fought for power, Akaza’s story was one of loss, making his death one of the most emotional in Demon Slayer.
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