Series & First Appearance
Kashuu Kiyomitsu is a character from the multimedia franchise "Touken Ranbu," which primarily includes a browser game, anime, and stage adaptations. He first appeared in the mobile game "Touken Ranbu -Online-" developed by DMM Games and Nitroplus in 2015. While the character does not have a specific anime episode linked to his debut, he is featured prominently in the anime adaptation produced by Ufotable in 2016.
Profile at a Glance
Kashuu Kiyomitsu is characterized as a young sword, appearing in his late teens, and is affiliated with the Touken-dan, a group of anthropomorphized swords tasked with protecting history from the forces of the Time Retrograde Army. His signature weapon is the uchigatana known to have been used by the famed samurai Okita Souji of the Shinsengumi. Kiyomitsu possesses a strong sense of beauty and aesthetics, believing that maintaining his appearance would ensure his owner’s affection.
Personality & Motivations
Kashuu Kiyomitsu is often portrayed as prideful and somewhat vain, stemming from his impoverished beginnings, which have instilled in him a desire for beauty and admiration. He consistently seeks to keep himself "pretty" to secure his worth in the eyes of his wielder. Despite his quarreling with fellow sword Yamatonokami Yasusada, their relationship is rooted in friendship, revealing a more vulnerable and loyal side to his character. One of his notable catchphrases is his insistence on beauty as a measure of worth.
Abilities / Powers
Kashuu Kiyomitsu specializes in swift and agile combat, emphasizing speed and finesse over brute strength. His abilities as a sword include enhanced reflexes, allowing him to engage enemy forces quickly and efficiently. He also exhibits skills in swordplay that he has honed through battles, particularly against the Time Retrograde Army. Despite his combat prowess, Kiyomitsu’s focus on aesthetics sometimes leads to an underestimation of his own strength, which can be a limitation in more dire situations. His powers evolve as he gains experience and develops deeper bonds with his allies.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the "Touken Ranbu" narrative, Kashuu Kiyomitsu undergoes significant character development, particularly in his interactions with Yamatonokami Yasusada. Their frequent bickering serves as both comedic relief and an exploration of deeper camaraderie, showcasing how their clashing personalities ultimately lead to mutual respect. Key arcs focus on team battles against the forces of time, where Kiyomitsu’s growth as both a warrior and a companion is highlighted, culminating in his realization that true beauty lies not just in appearance but also in the bonds he forges with his comrades.
Notable Relationships
Kashuu Kiyomitsu’s most significant relationship is with Yamatonokami Yasusada, his rival-turned-friend. Their dynamic is complex, often characterized by playful rivalry and arguments that ultimately reveal deep-seated care for each other. Other notable relationships include his interactions with fellow Touken-dan members, with whom he shares camaraderie and mutual respect, contributing to the overall team dynamic against common foes.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs during a battle against the Time Retrograde Army, where Kashuu Kiyomitsu displays a blend of elegance and raw skill, accurately reflecting his characterization. A striking quote that encapsulates his philosophy on beauty is when he asserts, "To be loved, one must first be beautiful," demonstrating his obsession with aesthetics and his motivations as a sword.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Kashuu Kiyomitsu’s design reflects the historical significance of his weapon, emphasizing aesthetics reminiscent of a traditional samurai. His portrayal in anime has been praised for vibrancy and attention to detail, aligning with fans’ expectations of character representation. The character is voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka in Japanese and has garnered significant popularity, listed among the top favorites in various polls related to "Touken Ranbu," with 225 member favorites. The name "Kiyomitsu" is inspired by historical figures, fitting the theme of the franchise, which revives legendary swords and their lore.
