In the intricate world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, breathing styles are fundamental to a demon slayer’s combat prowess. These styles, derived from natural elements and principles, empower demon slayers with extraordinary abilities. Tanjiro Kamado, the series’ protagonist, is a prime example of someone who has mastered multiple breathing styles. So, how many breathing styles does Tanjiro know, and how do they shape his journey?
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Water Breathing: The Foundation

Tanjiro Kamado’s story begins with the Water Breathing style. Trained by Sakonji Urokodaki, Tanjiro learns this style, which is renowned for its flowing, fluid movements. Water breathing consists of several forms that mimic the nature and flow of water. Each form allows Tanjiro to strike with precision, making him an agile and effective fighter.
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Water-breathing forms are essential for Tanjiro’s early battles. They provide him with the skills needed to handle the demons he encounters. For instance, the First Form, “Water Surface Slash,” is vital for its sharp and powerful strikes. Similarly, the Fourth Form, “Striking Tide,” helps Tanjiro make rapid and effective attacks against enemies.
Tanjiro’s initial training in water breathing lays the groundwork for his development as a demon slayer. This style helps him build a solid combat foundation and prepares him for the challenges that lie ahead. The precision and agility offered by water breathing are crucial for handling the fast and dangerous demons that he faces.
Hinokami Kagura (Sun Breathing): The Legendary Style

As Tanjiro’s journey unfolds, he discovers the Hinokami Kagura, also known as Sun Breathing. This breathing style is legendary, believed to be the original technique from which all other breathing styles are derived. Tanjiro learns this technique from the traditional dance of his family, a rite passed down through generations.
Sun breathing is characterized by its intense, fiery attacks. The style includes several forms, each with powerful and swift movements that resemble the sun’s blazing fury. The First Form, “Dance,” and the Second Form, “Clear Blue Sky,” are especially significant in Tanjiro’s combat strategy. These forms provide him with powerful offensive capabilities, crucial for confronting powerful demons.
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The discovery of Hinokami Kagura marks a major turning point in Tanjiro’s development. It represents a deep connection to his family’s legacy and the ancient techniques used by previous generations. Transitioning from water breathing to sun breathing signifies a significant evolution in his combat abilities and his understanding of demon-slaying techniques.
Advanced Techniques and Forms
Tanjiro’s mastery extends beyond the primary styles of water breathing and sun breathing. As he faces increasingly formidable opponents, he refines and incorporates advanced techniques and forms into his combat repertoire. These advanced techniques build upon the basics, allowing him to adapt and overcome new challenges.
For example, Tanjiro develops advanced forms of water breathing, such as the Seventh Form, “Luminous Jade.” This technique showcases his ability to adapt traditional water breathing techniques to suit new and complex combat scenarios. Similarly, Tanjiro’s understanding of Sun Breathing evolves as he discovers and practices additional forms, enhancing his effectiveness in battles.
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These advanced techniques are not just variations but represent a deeper understanding of the breathing styles. They reflect Tanjiro’s growth as a demon slayer and his ability to adapt his skills to various situations and adversaries.
Training and Mastery
Tanjiro’s proficiency in these breathing styles is the result of extensive training and relentless dedication. His journey begins with rigorous training under Urokodaki, who instills the basics of water breathing. This foundational training is crucial for Tanjiro’s early success and his ability to handle the demons he encounters.
Mastery of sun breathing involves a different kind of learning. Tanjiro’s discovery of this technique is deeply personal, as he learned it through his family’s traditions and personal practice. His growth in sun breathing reflects not only his physical training but also his connection to his family’s heritage and the ancient demon-slaying techniques.
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Each challenge Tanjiro faces contributes to his growth. His battles, training sessions, and experiences help refine his understanding and execution of both water breathing and sun breathing. This continuous development is essential for his effectiveness as a demon slayer.
The Role of Breathing Styles in Combat
Breathing styles are crucial for Tanjiro’s success in combat. How many breathing styles does Tanjiro know? He starts with Water Breathing, which enhances his agility and precision. This style allows him to handle fast and agile opponents effectively. Water Breathing provides him with the tools needed to strike precisely and evade attack.
Sun Breathing offers powerful and sweeping attacks. This style, another of how many breathing styles Tanjiro knows, is essential for defeating strong and resilient demons. The intensity and force of Sun Breathing attacks are particularly effective against formidable adversaries, making them a key component of Tanjiro’s combat strategy.
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The combination of water breathing and sun breathing exemplifies how many breathing styles Tanjiro knows and enables him to develop a versatile fighting approach. By switching between these styles, he can adapt to different enemies and combat situations. This adaptability is crucial for his success as a demon slayer and his ability to overcome the diverse challenges he faces.
The Connection Between Breathing Styles and Character Development
Tanjiro’s mastery of various breathing styles is closely tied to his character’s development throughout the series. His water breathing represents his initial training and growth, showcasing his determination and foundational skills. It highlights his early development as a demon slayer and his ability to handle initial challenges.
Sun breathing, on the other hand, signifies a deeper connection to his family’s legacy and the ancient techniques used by previous generations. This style represents Tanjiro’s evolution and his growing understanding of the broader history and tradition of demon-slaying.
As Tanjiro progresses, his mastery of these styles reflects his overall growth as a character. Each style he learns contributes to his development, enhancing his combat abilities and his personal journey.
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The Impact of Breathing Styles on the Series
Tanjiro’s proficiency in different breathing styles significantly impacts the Demon Slayer series. His ability to master and adapt various techniques adds depth to the combat scenes, making them more dynamic and engaging. The different styles highlight the diversity and complexity of the series’ combat system.
Additionally, the breathing styles contribute to the rich world-building in Demon Slayer. They offer insights into the history and evolution of demon-slaying techniques, enriching the series’ lore and narrative. The exploration of these styles adds layers to the story, providing a deeper understanding of the world in which Tanjiro operates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tanjiro Kamado is skilled in multiple breathing styles, each playing a unique role in his combat effectiveness and development. So, how many breathing styles does Tanjiro know? He starts with water breathing, advances to hinokami kagura (sun breathing), and gradually incorporates advanced techniques. His mastery of these styles showcases his growth and versatility as a demon slayer.
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The combination of water breathing and sun breathing highlights Tanjiro’s adaptability and strength. His training, battles, and experiences shape his skills, making him a formidable fighter. Understanding how many breathing styles Tanjiro knows adds depth to the series, enhancing both the narrative and Tanjiro’s character arc. Through his journey, Tanjiro exemplifies how mastering various techniques can lead to profound personal and professional growth.