The Thousand-Year Blood War arc in Bleach introduced fans to a plethora of new and evolved Bankai, pushing the limits of what these ultimate Zanpakuto releases could achieve. While raw power is a key factor, speed often dictates the flow of battle. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 fastest Bankai showcased during this epic conflict, ranked by their demonstrated or stated speed capabilities.
1. Kamishini no Yari (Gin Ichimaru)
Gin Ichimaru’s Kamishini no Yari is arguably the fastest Bankai in the entire Bleach series, not just the TYBW arc. Its primary function is to extend and retract at an astonishing speed of 500 times the speed of sound. This blinding speed allows Gin to deliver devastating attacks in the blink of an eye. Moreover, the blade briefly turns to dust during extension and contraction, adding a deadly element of surprise. Gin’s strategy often involved using the sheer speed and length of his blade to overwhelm and confuse opponents. This Bankai, while only seen briefly, has made a lasting impression on fans, solidifying its place as the fastest.
2. Jakuho Raikoben (Soi Fon)
Soi Fon’s Jakuho Raikoben is a testament to speed and precision. This Bankai manifests as a massive missile launcher worn on her right arm. While the explosion’s destructive power is considerable, it’s the firing speed of the missile that earns it a high ranking. Soi Fon is a master of shunpo, and this ability translates to her Bankai’s speed, allowing her to launch projectiles with incredible swiftness. In addition to its speed, the missile’s destructive power is immense, making it a fearsome weapon in her arsenal.
3. Tensa Zangetsu (Ichigo Kurosaki)
Ichigo Kurosaki’s Tensa Zangetsu is a compact, highly mobile Bankai. The smaller blade allows for faster, more agile movements. Ichigo’s speed is not just about the weapon itself, but also about how his speed enhances his overall combat ability, allowing him to deliver powerful attacks with blinding speed. Ichigo’s speed is consistently a threat throughout the series, and his Bankai directly contributes to this. Tensa Zangetsu is not just about raw power, but about how it allows Ichigo to move with enhanced speed and agility.
4. Hakka no Togame (Rukia Kuchiki)
Rukia Kuchiki’s Hakka no Togame is a Bankai that focuses on manipulating temperature to reach absolute zero. While the freezing process itself isn’t instantaneous, the speed at which she can lower the temperature and flash-freeze her opponents is very high. This sudden and drastic change in temperature can incapacitate enemies almost immediately. The speed at which the freezing occurs, combined with its wide area of effect, makes it a formidable Bankai in terms of speed and impact.
5. Senbonzakura Kageyoshi (Byakuya Kuchiki)
Byakuya Kuchiki’s Senbonzakura Kageyoshi is a visually stunning Bankai where his sword transforms into thousands of tiny blades. While the sheer number of blades is impressive, their movement speed is what earns them a spot on this list. Byakuya is able to control the blades with exceptional speed, forming intricate patterns and launching rapid-fire attacks. He can also increase the speed of the blades by incorporating hand motions into his control, enhancing their lethality. His mastery over the blade petals gives him a unique advantage in both offense and defense.
6. Tekken Tachikaze (Kensei Muguruma)
Kensei Muguruma’s Tekken Tachikaze transforms his Zanpakuto into a pair of knuckle blades. While not focused on travel speed, the speed at which Kensei can deliver a flurry of punches with the Bankai is remarkable. This Bankai concentrates the destructive power of his Shikai into focused, high-speed strikes. Although he only uses the Bankai once, the speed and force of his punches are a testament to its capabilities.
7. Unnamed Bankai (Kenpachi Zaraki)
Kenpachi Zaraki’s Bankai, while unnamed, is a manifestation of his raw, unrestrained power. It transforms him into a demon-like being with incredible strength. His speed isn’t about finesse or agility, but rather about pure, overwhelming force delivered at high speed. When Kenpachi releases his Bankai, his reaction and combat speed skyrocket, allowing him to close distances and deliver devastating blows rapidly. The sheer speed and power behind his attacks make him a formidable force in battle.
8. Minazuki (Retsu Unohana)
Retsu Unohana’s Bankai, Minazuki, is unique in that it primarily functions as a healing and corrosive force. However, when used offensively, it can deliver a rapid, corrosive strike that can quickly melt away opponents. The speed at which it can break down an opponent’s body makes it a noteworthy contender. While it’s not a speed-focused Bankai in the traditional sense, its quick application of corrosive energy earns it a place on this list.
9. Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Korogi (Kaname Tosen)
Kaname Tosen’s Bankai, Suzumushi Tsuishiki: Enma Korogi, creates a sensory deprivation dome, with Tosen being able to perceive everything inside it. While the initial setup of the dome isn’t about speed, the quickness with which Tosen can attack from within using his enhanced senses and attacks is noteworthy. The area inside the dome becomes a black void where Tosen can move and attack with great speed due to his sensory advantage.
10. Unnamed Bankai (Shunsui Kyoraku)
Shunsui Kyoraku’s Bankai, while unnamed, is a complex ability that involves enacting a series of “acts” on the battlefield. While the speed is not its primary focus, Shunsui can still move quickly and make rapid, calculated attacks. His Bankai does not rely solely on speed, however it does have swift and efficient attacks, placing it within the fastest Bankai of the TYBW.
Conclusion
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc showcased an array of powerful and diverse Bankai. While raw power is often the most talked about aspect, speed is just as crucial in combat. These 10 Bankai represent the pinnacle of speed within the Bleach universe, each with its unique application and impact. Gin Ichimaru’s Kamishini no Yari reigns supreme as the fastest Bankai, while others like Tensa Zangetsu and Senbonzakura Kageyoshi highlight the importance of agility and precision in a battle. The variety of combat styles and approaches to battle speed makes this a compelling aspect to the series.
