Ranking the Strongest Characters in Rurouni Kenshin Series

Essential Insights

Rurouni Kenshin is an animated series taking place in Japan during the Meiji era. It narrates the tale of Himura Kenshin, a reformed assassin who has transformed into a wandering samurai.
The narrative includes several powerful characters like Hiko Seijuro and Shishio Makoto, both notorious for their exceptional fighting skills and formidable presence.
Kenshin stands out as one of the series’ most formidable characters, famed for his extraordinary sword skills, remarkable speed, agility, and his distinct fighting method utilizing the Hiten Mitsurugi-Ryu technique.

Rurouni Kenshin is an acclaimed anime set in the historical backdrop of the Meiji period in Japan. Centered around Himura Kenshin, who was once an infamous assassin known as Hitokiri Battosai, the series follows his journey as he wanders the nation, swearing to renounce killing. During his travels, Kenshin encounters numerous allies and adversaries while getting entangled in various conflicts and battles.

The series showcases an array of remarkable characters, from the legendary Hiko Seijuro to the crafty Shishio Makoto, each displaying immense combat prowess. Yet, only a select few rise above the rest in terms of strength.

Updated October 29, 2024, by Oluwatokiloba Folami: The revitalization of the Rurouni Kenshin anime has beautifully reimagined iconic battles that fans cherish, often presenting them with enhanced animation. Battles that feature powerful figures such as Hiko Seijuro and Myojin Yahiko highlight the series’ strongest warriors, some leaving an indelible mark on viewers. This fresh rendering offers fans a renewed appreciation for the characters’ strengths and techniques that may have gone unnoticed during the original showings, inviting a reevaluation of their power dynamics.

16 Makimachi Thought

A Skilled Practitioner of the Oniwaban-Ryu Style

Manga Debut: Act 62

Although she is a kunoichi, Misao embodies the traits of a young girl, often acting on impulse rather than stealth. Unlike typical kunoichi, she thrives in making herself known and fights valiantly. Despite some shortcomings, Misao is proficient in combat, mastering the Oniwaban-Ryu style and excelling in hand-to-hand techniques, including Kempo.

Preferring a kunai as her weapon, Misao employs various throwing techniques adeptly. Initially, she ventures out on a quest to find Shinomori Aoshi, who she considers a sibling, but eventually joins forces with Himura Kenshin.

15 Myojin Yahiko

From Street Thief to National Champion

Manga Debut: Act 3

Yahiko’s evolution from a ten-year-old pickpocket to a skilled warrior is remarkable. Initially forced into thievery by the Tanishi Yakuza, his life changed when Himura Kenshin rescued him, guiding him towards his dream of mastering the sword, which he pursued reflecting his Samurai roots.

Although Yahiko still has room for growth compared to exceptional fighters like Kenshin and Seta Sojiro, his relentless dedication to Kenjutsu marks him as a child prodigy. By age 15, he has becoming a national-level swordsman, showcasing extraordinary feats such as catching and shattering blades with his bare hands.

14 Okita Soji

A Talented Fighter overpowered by Disease

Manga Debut: Act 48

While Okita might not have received extensive screen time among Rurouni Kenshin characters, he was as formidable as Saito Hajime. Unfortunately, due to an illness, he could not sustain his full combat abilities over extended periods, often succumbing to coughing fits mid-battle.

Despite this, Okita proved his prowess against Kenshin and was celebrated as one of the finest swordsmen of the Shinsengumi, even establishing himself as the captain of the first unit. He was known for innovating a unique three-way thrust technique in his swordplay.

13 Yukuzan Anji

From Monk to Avenging Juppongatana Member

Manga Debut: Act 72

Once a Buddhist monk, Anji became a vengeful warrior after witnessing the destruction of his temple by the rising Meiji government, which also claimed the lives of five orphans under his guardianship. Disillusioned with the Buddha’s ability to render justice, he decided to take matters into his own hands by exacting revenge.

Anji later joined Shishio’s Juppongatana, demonstrating remarkable hand-to-hand combat skills that few can rival. His strong build enhances his striking power, and he developed a lethal technique, ‘Futae no Kiwami,’ later imparting it to Sagara Sanosuke.

12. Sawagejo Cho

The Ambitious Sword Collector of Rurouni Kenshin

Manga Debut: Act 76

Sawagejo Cho, dubbed Cho the Sword Hunter, has an obsession with acquiring different styles of swords. His arrogance is matched only by his combat style, which, while menacing, pales in comparison to that of Kenshin and Shishio. However, he remains superior to the average fighter.

Cho showcases a range of clever tricks, although some techniques may not be the most effective. He notably favors swords forged by Shakku Arai and quickly confronts Kenshin upon discovering he possesses one of Arai’s blades, only to face defeat swiftly.

11 Fuji

A Colossal Force of Devastation

Manga Debut: Act 97

Fuji is the most physically imposing character in the Rurouni Kenshin narrative. His immense strength and resilience make him a terrifying force, with only a handful of elite warriors capable of facing him. Armed with a massive sword, Fuji is more than capable of demolishing buildings effortlessly, posing a significant challenge for most adversaries.

Initially introduced as an unthinking brute under Saizuchi’s command, Fuji eventually gains autonomy after encountering Hiko Seijuro. After realizing Seijuro respects him, he decides to break free from Saizuchi’s grasp and embarks on a path of redemption.

10 Sagara Sanosuke

Kenshin’s Loyal Ally

Manga Debut: Act 5

Although Sagara Sanosuke may struggle against foes like Udo Jin-e, Shishio, or even Kenshin, he exhibits commendable physical strength that sets him apart from many others. With a bold personality, Sanosuke serves as a steadfast companion and trusted ally for Kenshin.

He relies not on weaponry, but on sheer brute force. With the strength to break trees with his fists and doors with his feet, few can match Sanosuke’s raw power, despite possibly falling short against formidable opponents.

9 Usui Uonuma

Manga Debut: Act 93

Usui Uonuma, once a violent member of Shishio’s Juppongatana, found twisted enjoyment in killing, viewing it as a form of entertainment. Following his defeat at the hands of Shishio, who blinded him, Usui was regarded as obsolete and cast aside.

However, he adapted, honing his ability to detect movements and emotions using auditory cues. In combat, Usui wields a short spear and a turtle shell for defense, striving to hone his skills while nurturing the desire for vengeance against Shishio.

8 Shinomori Aoshi

The Methodical Leader of the Oniwabanshu

Manga Debut: Act 16

Aoshi, the tall and agile leader of the Oniwabanshu, excels in the arts of combat, subterfuge, and reconnaissance. His unmatched skills, paired with an analytical mind, permit him to achieve his objectives with precision.

As the grandmaster of the Oniwabanshu Ninja clan, Aoshi wields his sword with deadly skill, leaving a trail of destruction. Known for keen observation, he uses his abilities to calculate precise distances and sounds, constantly striving for strength, as he challenges Kenshin to contend against his Battosai persona.

7. Udo Jin-e

The Assassin Who Paralyzes His Victims

Manga Debut: Act 9

Jin-e, a Hitokiri enthralled by murder, willingly killed anyone who stood in his way. He became notorious as a merciless assassin, mastering the Nikaido Heigo sword style with ambidextrous efficacy.

His agility, durability, and physical might are noteworthy, but his most terrifying ability lies in his paralyzing technique, which allows him to incapacitate his foes, inducing a state of hypnosis that can suffocate them.

6. Hajime Saito

The Justice-Driven Shinsengumi Captain

Manga Debut: Act 48

Former captain of the Shinsengumi’s third unit, Hajime Saito, is unwavering in his pursuit of justice, adhering to the doctrine of ‘Swift Death to Evil.’ He has a history of encounters with Kenshin, viewing him as a rival.

Their battles have consistently remained unresolved, illustrating Saito’s prowess in swordsmanship, which rivals that of Kenshin, although no definitive victor has emerged. Saito is also skilled in various martial arts disciplines.

5. Seta Sojiro

A Fighter Whose Speed and Precision Match the Hitokiri Battosai

Manga Debut: Act 56

As Shishio’s most capable lieutenant, Sojiro presents a formidable challenge to Kenshin during their duel. Often depicted with a calm demeanor, Sojiro lacks any aggressive air, which can confound his opponents.

His ’emotionless’ fighting style makes it hard for adversaries to predict his moves. In their confrontation, Kenshin had to disrupt Sojiro’s mental state before he could exploit any vulnerabilities in his impressive swordplay, with Sojiro’s speed rivaling that of Kenshin himself.

4 Yukishiro Enishi

A Self-Taught Master of the Blade

Manga Debut: Act 152

Yukishiro Enishi, the chief antagonist of the Jinchu Arc, harbors deep vendetta against Kenshin following the accidental death of his sister at Kenshin’s hands. Fueled by this tragedy, Enishi’s primary ambition is to bring suffering to Kenshin in turn.

Enishi is a proficient swordsman who practices Watojutsu, a technique he learned through self-teaching. He combines it with diverse martial arts, significantly elevating his combat abilities, and possesses an ability called ‘Frienzied Nerves,’ enhancing his speed, power, and reflexes at a great toll.

3 Makoto Shishio

The Successor to the Hitokiri Battosai

Manga Debut: Act 55

Makoto Shishio emerges as the pivotal antagonist in the Kyoto arc, forming a militia in response to a failed assassination attempt by the government. Cold-blooded and ruthless, Shishio adheres to a philosophy where the weak serve the strong, often using them for personal gain.

As one of the most lethal warriors to grace the series, Shishio possesses the extraordinary ability to counter and nullify an attack after observing it only once. He has been recognized as the successor to the Hitokiri Battosai, standing as a significant opponent to Kenshin.

2. Kenshin Himura

From Hitokiri Battosai to Champion of Justice

Manga Debut: Act 1

Kenshin, the series’ central figure, is revered as one of the most formidable characters due to his extraordinary swordsmanship, speed, and agility. Once a lethal assassin, he has honed his skills over many years.

Distinguishing himself with a unique combat style that melds speed and accuracy, Kenshin employs the Hiten Mitsurugi-Ryu technique, allowing him to perform rapid and powerful strikes. His strength, endurance, and resilience have seen him triumph in countless confrontations throughout the anime.

1. Hiko Seijuro

The Uncontested Champion of Rurouni Kenshin

Manga Debut: Act 83

Hiko Seijuro, Kenshin’s mentor, is the thirteenth lineage holder of the Hiten Mitsurugi-Ryu swordsmanship. While he may appear abrasive, apathetic, or even sluggish, his combat capabilities remain unparalleled.

In terms of fighting prowess, Hiko outmatches Kenshin significantly. Despite his age, he maintains a youthful appearance due to rigorous training that keeps his physique in peak condition. Hiko’s extraordinary abilities have led manga creator Nobuhiro Watsuki to liken him to a joker in a card game.

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