The acclaimed historical fantasy anime series, Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō, delved deeper into its intricate narrative with the highly anticipated Episode 20, titled “Wish (Part 1).” This episode, which premiered on August 25-26, 2025, continued to explore the harrowing journey of Jinya, a demon hunter entangled in a centuries-long struggle against supernatural forces, unveiling crucial character developments and escalating plot complexities.
Jinya’s Demonic Transformation Witnessed
A pivotal moment in “Wish (Part 1)” sees the protagonist, Jinya, undergo a terrifying transformation into a demon. This significant event occurs during a fierce battle against Tsuchiura, a loyal retainer of Hatakeyama Yasuhide. The shocking spectacle is not without witnesses, as Naotsugu and his daughter, Nomari, observe Jinya’s demonic shift, adding a layer of personal complication and potential distrust to his mission.
The Resolve to Defeat Tsuchiura
Following his transformation, a concerned Ofu approaches Jinya. Despite her worries, Jinya remains steadfast in his resolve, unequivocally declaring his intention to “defeat Tsuchiura.” This declaration highlights his unwavering commitment to his demon-hunting duties, even as his own nature becomes increasingly complex. Ofu, sensing the depth of his determination, questions Jinya about the underlying reasons for his relentless fight against demons.
Confessions and Past Events in Kadono
In a moment of vulnerability, Jinya confides in Ofu, revealing details about the events that transpired in Kadono, a mountain village central to his past. This conversation is crucial for both characters and the audience, as it sheds light on Jinya’s motivations and the origins of his arduous journey. His internal struggle and external battles are deeply intertwined with the history of Kadono and the mysteries he uncovered there, which irrevocably changed his fate.
Yasuhide’s Counter-Offensive: Sending Demons to Kyoto
Meanwhile, the antagonist Hatakeyama Yasuhide advances his strategic machinations. In a bid to counter the burgeoning anti-shogunate faction, Yasuhide plans a formidable offensive: sending Tsuchiura, alongside approximately one hundred other demons, to Kyoto. This move signifies a significant escalation in the conflict, positioning the demonic forces directly against the political powers and setting the stage for potentially devastating confrontations in the capital.
The Broader Narrative of Sword of the Demon Hunter
Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentōshō (鬼人幻燈抄) is a sprawling Japanese historical fantasy that originated as a novel series by Moto’o Nakanishi, illustrated by Tamaki. The story follows Jinta (later known as Jinya), a young warrior in feudal Japan, who becomes the guardian of a shrine maiden, Itsukihime, in the secluded mountain village of Kadono. His encounter with a mysterious demon sets him on an extraordinary journey that traverses 170 years, from the Edo period to the Heisei era, as he grapples with his identity and the purpose of his sword.
The anime adaptation, produced by Yokohama Animation Laboratory and directed by Kazuya Aiura, premiered on March 31, 2025. The series is set to run for two consecutive cours, comprising a total of 24 episodes, with Episode 20 falling within the second cour, known as the “Bakumatsu Arc.” Both the original light novels and a manga adaptation by Yū Satomi are licensed in English by Seven Seas Entertainment, providing a comprehensive narrative for fans of the time-traveling demon hunter saga.
