The second season of the popular anime series, Rurouni Kenshin, subtitled Kyoto Disturbance, has just released its fifth promotional video, revealing a brand new ending theme song. The series, a reboot of the classic manga, continues to captivate audiences with its blend of historical drama and action-packed sword fights.
New Ending Theme: “Tada Hitotsu”
The new ending theme song, titled “Tada Hitotsu” (Just One), is performed by the talented singer-songwriter Zarame. This song will debut with the show’s second cour (quarter of a year) starting on January 9, 2025. The announcement came alongside the release of the fifth full promotional video for the series. The shift to a new ending theme marks a transition in the storytelling, as the series delves deeper into the Kyoto arc, one of the most beloved storylines from the original manga.
Zarame’s Unique Sound
Zarame brings a unique musicality to the series, differing from the previous ending theme. This change in musical direction highlights the anime’s ability to blend the classic feel of the original Rurouni Kenshin with a fresh, modern sound. Fans are eagerly anticipating how “Tada Hitotsu” will complement the intense and emotional scenes of the Kyoto arc.
Kyoto Disturbance: The Second Season
The Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance anime is the second television series adaptation of Nobuhiro Watsuki’s manga. The first season aired from July to December 2023, consisting of 24 episodes. The second season, which began in October 2024, is set to run for two consecutive cours, totaling 23 episodes. This new season focuses on the Kyoto arc, where Kenshin Himura, the wandering swordsman, confronts Makoto Shishio, a formidable villain seeking to overthrow the Meiji government.
Plot Overview
Set in the Meiji era, the story follows Kenshin, a former assassin known as “Hitokiri Battōsai”, who now wields a reverse-bladed sword, vowing never to kill again. His peaceful life is disrupted when he learns of Shishio’s plot, leading him on a journey to Kyoto. This season is packed with new characters and intense battles, exploring themes of redemption, justice, and the weight of one’s past.
Key Characters and Voice Cast
The series boasts a talented voice cast, bringing the beloved characters to life. Key cast members include:
- Sōma Saitō as Kenshin Himura.
- Rie Takahashi as Kaoru Kamiya.
- Makoto Koichi as Yahiko Myōjin.
New characters introduced in the Kyoto arc include:
- Makoto Furukawa as Makoto Shishio
- Daiki Yamashita as Seta Sojiro
- Aya Yamane as Misao Makimachi
- Yuichi Nakamura as Hiko Seijuro.
Production Team
The second season is directed by Yuki Komada, with Hideyuki Kurata handling the series composition and screenplay. The animation is produced by Liden Films, which has been praised for its high-quality animation and faithful adaptation of the manga. The music for the series is composed by Yū Takami.
Music in Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance
The music plays a vital role in setting the tone of the series. Here are the theme songs for the second season:
- Opening Theme 1: “Chained” (also known as “Iranai Mono“) performed by Tatsuya Kitani x natori. This song captures the internal conflicts and struggles of the main characters.
- Ending Theme 1: “Suikōsetten” performed by Nomelon Nolemon. This song, featured in the early episodes, is a powerful and emotional track that sets the mood for the series.
- Opening Theme 2: “BURN” by yama x WurtS
- Ending Theme 2: “Tada Hitotsu” by Zarame, which marks a shift in tone and the direction of the story as it enters its second cour.
These musical pieces enhance the emotional depth of the series and are essential in portraying the intense narrative of the Kyoto arc.
Where to Watch
The Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance anime is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The English dub of the series premiered on October 24, 2024.
A Look Back at the Original Series
The original Rurouni Kenshin anime series, which aired from 1996 to 1998, is a beloved classic that many consider a milestone in anime history. It consisted of 95 episodes. This new adaptation seeks to introduce the timeless tale to a new generation while honoring the source material that has captivated fans for decades.
The Enduring Legacy
The manga series, written and illustrated by Nobuhiro Watsuki, was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1994 to 1999. It remains a cornerstone of the shonen genre, recognized for its compelling characters, dynamic action sequences, and engaging storyline. In addition, the franchise has expanded to include 5 live-action adaptations. The new anime aims to capture the essence of the manga and bring it to life for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Conclusion
The Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Disturbance anime continues to be a must-watch for fans of action, historical drama, and compelling storytelling. The introduction of Zarame’s new ending theme, “Tada Hitotsu,” signals a new phase of the series, promising more intense moments and emotional depth. With a strong production team, talented cast, and a well-loved story, this series is set to be a memorable addition to the Rurouni Kenshin legacy. The show’s availability on Crunchyroll also makes it accessible to a global audience. As the Kyoto arc unfolds, viewers can expect an exhilarating and heartfelt journey with Kenshin and his companions.
