Tokyo, Japan – The highly anticipated “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc: Part 1 Akaza Returns” has shattered box office records in Japan, earning a staggering ¥7.31 billion (approximately $49.7 million USD) with 5.16 million admissions within its first four days of release since July 18. This phenomenal opening positions the film as a major contender to become the highest-grossing domestic film of 2025.
Surpassing Previous Franchise Records
The film’s performance has significantly outpaced its predecessor, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train,” which previously held numerous records. “Mugen Train” earned ¥4.62 billion in its first three days in October 2020, while “Infinity Castle Arc Part 1” achieved ¥5.52 billion (approximately $37.4 million USD) in its initial three days. The new film also set records for opening day revenue with ¥1.64 billion ($11.2 million USD) and the highest single-day performance in Japanese cinema history, grossing ¥2.03 billion ($13.8 million USD) on July 20 alone.
This strong debut suggests that the “Infinity Castle Arc Part 1” could potentially surpass “Mugen Train”‘s all-time Japanese box office record of ¥40.43 billion ($275 million USD).
A Pivotal Cinematic Adaptation
Unlike some previous “Demon Slayer” theatrical releases that were compilation films (such as “To the Swordsmith Village” and “To the Hashira Training”), “Infinity Castle Arc Part 1” marks the beginning of a full-length cinematic adaptation of the climactic “Infinity Castle” arc from Koyoharu Gotouge’s original manga. The film is the first part of a planned trilogy that will conclude the popular series on the big screen, a decision by Ufotable that appears to be paying off handsomely.
The film, directed by Haruo Sotozaki and produced by Ufotable, premiered in Japan on July 18, 2025, with distribution handled by Aniplex and Toho. International audiences in North America and other regions are expected to see the film released starting in September. Early impressions and reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with high ratings on platforms like IMDb.
The Enduring Power of Demon Slayer
The “Demon Slayer” franchise continues to demonstrate its immense popularity and drawing power at the global box office. “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train” became a worldwide phenomenon, grossing over $507 million and becoming the highest-grossing film of 2020 and the highest-grossing anime and Japanese film of all time. It was also the first non-Hollywood production to top the annual worldwide box office. The success of “Infinity Castle Arc Part 1” reaffirms the franchise’s strong appeal and its ability to consistently deliver record-breaking theatrical experiences.
