Demon Slayer: Does Tanjiro Become a Hashira?

Kamado Tanjiro at the beginning of the show
Kamado Tanjiro at the beginning of the show (Image via Ufotable)

Tanjiro Kamado goes from a sweet boy to a fierce fighter in Demon Slayer. However, his journey captured the hearts of anime fans across the globe. As the plot is revealed, it begs the question: Does he ever become a Hashira? No, Tanjiro never officially becomes a Hashira.

The Hashira are the top warriors of the Demon Slayer Corps. They are also adept at their breathing style and have fought numerous real battles against powerful demons. In order to become a Hashira, a Slayer must have killed fifty demons or one of the Twelve Kizuki, which consists of the strongest of all demons below Muzan Kibutsuji.

Although Tanjiro does become incredibly powerful himself, fighting even Hashira-level demons, he’s never officially given the title before the end of the story. Tanjiro exhibits the traits you expect from a true Hashira all the way through Demon Slayer. He is courageous, tenacious, and selfless.

Tanjiro as seen in the anime (Image via Ufotable)
Tanjiro as seen in the anime (Image via Ufotable)

Once his family gets killed by demons and his sister, Nezuko, becomes one, Tanjiro throws his life into his sister's protection as he searches for a cure. He joins the Demon Slayer Corps and soon earns a reputation for meeting Muzan and leaving with his life.

One of Tanjiro's biggest breakthroughs comes during the fight against the Lower Moon demon, Rui. In that match, Tanjiro awakens the Hinokami Kagura, a powerful family technique, and releases his maximum potential.

Over the course of the show, he discovers more about this fighting style, which is closely related to the Sun Breathing technique. This breathing technique is the original and most powerful breathing style in the Demon Slayer universe. Injuries, formidable foes, emotional damage—all that be damned, he never cedes ground.

Tanjiro, after meeting Muzan for the first time ever (Image via Ufotable)
Tanjiro, after meeting Muzan for the first time ever (Image via Ufotable)

Tanjiro’s training continues as he faces more dangerous missions. He teams up with the Hashira in the Entertainment District Arc, assisting Tengen Uzui in taking down the Upper Rank Six demons, Gyutaro and Daki. His strength and quick thinking prove that he can definitely stand alongside the Pillars, even without the official title.

Tanjiro goes through even more intense battles later in the series during the Swordsmith Village Arc. His body and his technique are honed, and his swordsmanship becomes more sophisticated. He even acquires a sword crafted by one of the finest swordsmiths of the time. But even with all this progress, the Hashira rank is still a far-off fantasy.


The Ending Parts of Demon Slayer

Tanjiro fighting Muzan in the final battle (Image via Shueisha)
Tanjiro fighting Muzan in the final battle (Image via Shueisha)

The final part of the show happens very quickly. The war against Muzan and the Upper Moons reaches its climax, and the Corps goes into an all-out battle. There is little time for promotions or formal titles.

Tanjiro helps immensely in these final bouts, fighting alongside the Hashira and ultimately landing the killing blow against Muzan. His actions are nothing short of heroic. Fans everywhere fully agree that although he never received the title, he deserved the respect and recognition of a Hashira.

After the war, the world of demons comes to an end. The Demon Slayer Corps disbands, and peace is restored. Since there is no longer a need for Hashira, Tanjiro’s journey as a demon slayer comes to a close without him ever officially joining their ranks.


Ultimately, Demon Slayer proves that names don't mean much. Tanjiro may not officially be a Hashira, but true Hashira qualities lie within him. His strength and bravery make him a true Hashira at heart. His journey of growth, sacrifice, and love shows you don’t need a title to be a true hero.

Edited by Anshika Jain