By: Prince Lammy

Welcome to our in-depth character analysis of Sakonji Urokodaki from the popular anime series Demon Slayer, also known as Kimetsu no Yaiba. As a former Water Hashira and mentor to the protagonist Tanjiro Kamado, Urokodaki's role in the story is significant and influential. 

In this article, we will delve into the depths of Urokodaki's character analysis, exploring his wisdom, teachings, and impact on the overall narrative. Join us as we uncover the insights and secrets behind this revered mentor, shedding light on his role in shaping the Demon Slayer Corps and guiding Tanjiro on his perilous journey to become a skilled demon slayer.

Profile

Name: Sakonji Urokodaki

Kanji: 鱗滝 左近次

Race: Human

Gender: Male

Hair Color: Gray

Breathing Technique: Water Breathing

Occupation: Former Water Hashira

Demon Slayer Corps Mentor/Trainer

Status: Retired

Debut: Episode 2

Urokodaki-san's Background And History

Urokodaki's origins date back to his early days as a Demon Slayer. He was a skilled swordsman who rose through the ranks and eventually became the Water Hashira (of his time), the elite group of swordsmen within the Demon Slayer Corps. However, after an encounter with a powerful demon that resulted in the death of his apprentice, Urokodaki withdrew from active demon slaying and secluded himself in the mountains.

Despite withdrawing from active demon slaying, Urokodaki remained respected in the Demon Slayer Corps. He took on the responsibility of training and mentoring young potential demon slayers, including Tanjiro Kamado, the series' protagonist. Urokodaki's training methods are rigorous and demanding, focusing on physical strength, mental fortitude, and discipline. Through his training, Urokodaki instills in his disciples the importance of perseverance, determination, and unwavering resolve in the face of challenges.

Urokodaki's accomplishments as a mentor are noteworthy. He has produced several skilled demon slayers who have gone on to become formidable fighters (even though he's somewhat troubled, as demons have gobbled up some of his students during the final selection), including Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko. His training has equipped his disciples with the skills and mindset to confront demons and protect humanity from their threat.

Appearance

Sakonji Urokodaki is an elderly man of decent height with short grey hair. Although it was revealed later that Sakonji's face has a lovely and tranquil frame, it is never represented or featured anywhere in the manga or anime. This is even though Sakonji's face has a charming and serene appearance. As portrayed in art, he is often seen with a tengu mask that covers his entire face.

He is always dressed in a jinbei kimono featuring a cloud design and blue pants with white kyahan guards at the shins. Moreover, he wears black tabi stockings and sandals, almost the same as Tanjiro's, with the difference that the straps on his sandals are blue. On the few times when Sakonji is forced to go somewhere else, he wraps a white scarf over his head and neck, extending down to his chest.

Urokodaki's Connection to The Demon Slayer Corps

Having once held the esteemed title of Water Hashira, Urokodaki's skills and knowledge are highly regarded by the Corps. Despite his retirement from active demon slaying, Urokodaki continues to be respected by his fellow Hashiras and serves as an advisor and mentor to the current generation of demon slayers.

His role as a mentor further strengthens Urokodaki's connection to the Demon Slayer Corps. He takes on the responsibility of training and guiding young demon slayers, imparting his expertise and experience to prepare them for the dangerous and relentless battle against demons. Urokodaki's mentorship is highly valued, and his disciples deeply respect and admire him.

As a former Water Hashira, Urokodaki's role goes beyond being a mentor. He is also a source of wisdom, guidance, and inspiration for the other members of the Corps. His insights, teachings, and techniques are sought after by both his disciples and fellow demon slayers, making him a revered figure within the Demon Slayer Corps.

Urokodaki's experience as a Water Hashira also shapes his approach to training and preparing demon slayers. He understands the importance of physical strength, mental fortitude, and discipline in facing demons. His emphasis on perseverance, determination, and unwavering resolve reflects his journey as a Hashira and the challenges he has overcome.

Urokodaki's Motivations, Beliefs, and Values

One of Urokodaki's key motivations is his unwavering commitment to protecting humanity from demons. He has a deep sense of duty to eliminate demons and prevent them from causing harm to innocent people. His own past experiences and losses drive this motivation at the hands of demons, which fuels his resolve to eradicate them from the world.

Urokodaki's beliefs and values are rooted in the traditional teachings of the Demon Slayer Corps. He places great importance on discipline, training, and adherence to the Demon Slayer code. He believes in the value of hard work, perseverance, and mastering the techniques of the Water Breathing style. Urokodaki also values camaraderie and teamwork, as he recognizes the strength in unity and cooperation among demon slayers.

These motivations, beliefs, and values shape Urokodaki's actions and interactions with other characters. He is strict and demanding in his training, pushing his disciples to their limits and instilling the values he holds dear in them. He also shows a deep sense of care and responsibility towards his disciples, treating them like family and providing guidance and support.

His wisdom and experience characterize Urokodaki's interactions with other characters. He serves as a mentor, offering advice, encouragement, and guidance to fellow demon slayers, including Tanjiro and his friends. His interactions are also marked by a sense of stoicism and composure, as he remains composed even in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, Urokodaki's motivations, beliefs, and values also influence his actions outside of combat. He is known for his compassion and willingness to help others, often providing shelter and support to those in need. His selflessness and dedication to the Demon Slayer inspire those around him and earn him the respect and admiration of his peers.

Personality And Traits

Sakonji Urokodaki's personality and traits are essential to understanding his character in the Demon Slayer anime. He is often portrayed as stern, disciplined, and serious, but he also shows moments of warmth and compassion toward his disciples.

Urokodaki's demeanor is typically no-nonsense, with a stern and strict exterior. He maintains a calm and composed attitude, even in challenging situations, and exudes a sense of discipline and seriousness. He upholds the traditional teachings of the Demon Slayer Corps and places a high value on hard work, perseverance, and mastering the Water Breathing techniques.

In terms of behavior, Urokodaki is known for his adherence to the principles of honor, integrity, and selflessness. He instills these qualities in his disciples through his teachings and leads by example. He is also patient and understanding, recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of his disciples and tailoring his training approach accordingly.

Urokodaki's characteristics as a former Water Hashira include experience and wisdom. He possesses a keen sense of observation and analysis, allowing him to assess situations quickly and respond effectively. He is also known for his deep knowledge and love of the natural world, particularly flowers and trees, which adds depth to his character.

Despite his tough exterior, Urokodaki shows moments of warmth and compassion towards his disciples, demonstrating paternal care for their well-being. He offers encouragement and guidance when needed and shows genuine concern for their growth as demon slayers. This adds a layer of complexity to his character, showcasing his multifaceted nature. 

Strengths And Weaknesses

Sakonji Urokodaki possesses several strengths that make him stand out as a character in the Demon Slayer anime. His exceptional skills as a former Water Hashira make him a formidable fighter and mentor. He is highly proficient in Water Breathing techniques and can easily demonstrate advanced combat skills. His expertise in demon slaying and his vast knowledge of demons and their weaknesses contribute to his strength as a mentor and trainer.

Urokodaki's unwavering commitment to the principles of honor, integrity, and selflessness is another notable strength. He upholds the teachings of the Demon Slayer Corps and instills these values in his disciples, guiding them to become skilled and honorable demon slayers. His disciplined nature and a strong sense of duty make him a respected figure among the Demon Slayer Corps members.

Moreover, Urokodaki's experience and wisdom are evident in his ability to assess situations quickly and respond effectively. He possesses a keen sense of observation and analysis, allowing him to make strategic decisions in battle. His understanding of the natural world, particularly flowers, and trees, adds a unique quirk to his character, showcasing his depth and knowledge beyond demon slaying.

However, Urokodaki also has his weaknesses. His strict and stern demeanor can sometimes come across as cold and unapproachable, which may be intimidating to some. Adherence to traditional values and methods may also limit his flexibility and adaptability in certain situations. Additionally, his deep attachment to his disciples, particularly Tanjiro, can be seen as a vulnerability, putting him at emotional risk.

Urokodaki's unique quirks and strengths make him a standout character despite these weaknesses. His exceptional skills, unwavering commitment to honor and integrity, and wisdom gained from experience contribute to his character's depth and complexity. His quirks, such as his knowledge of flowers and trees, add distinctiveness to his personality, making him a memorable character in the Demon Slayer anime.

Abilities

Stealth: Sakonji Urokodaki can walk or even run at more-than-normal speeds without making a single sound.

Speed: It has been shown that Sakonji possesses incredible speed, as seen in how he walks and even while training Tanjiro.

Sense of Smell: just like Tanjiro Kamado, Sakonji Urokodaki has a keen sense of smell and often boasts about it. He'd once said that by smelling a demon, he could tell the number of humans it has consumed and that his sense of smell becomes more precise and better the more he trains.

Breathing Technique and Forms

Sakonji Urokodaki's mastery of the Water Breathing Technique is second to none, and with it comes the ten different forms of this technique, namely:

First Form: Surface Slash - This form focuses on swift and precise strikes, mimicking the water flow on the surface. It is used for quick and agile attacks, allowing the user to swiftly defeat opponents with precise and efficient movements.

Second Form: Water Wheel - This form utilizes circular motions, creating a powerful spinning attack to deflect and repel enemy attacks. It is often used as a defensive technique, allowing the user to counter and deflect incoming attacks easily.

Third Form: Flowing Dance - This form incorporates graceful and flowing movements, allowing the user to transition between offense and defense seamlessly. It is known for its versatility and adaptability, making it a formidable technique in various combat situations.

Fourth Form: Striking Tide - This form focuses on robust and sweeping strikes, mimicking the forceful impact of a tidal wave. It is a high-impact form that delivers devastating blows, capable of overwhelming opponents with sheer brute force.

Fifth Form: Blessed Rain - This form is characterized by its precise and controlled movements, allowing the user to deliver pinpoint strikes to vital points on an opponent's body. It is known for its lethal and accurate attacks, capable of dealing fatal blows to demons.

Sixth Form: Whirlpool - The Whirlpool form of the Water Breathing technique allows the user to create a spinning motion with his sword, generating a powerful water vortex that can slice through demons with great speed and force. This form is particularly effective in close combat situations, allowing the user to quickly dispatch multiple opponents.

Seventh Form: Slashing Rain - The Slashing Rain form of the Water Breathing technique enables the user to make rapid and precise slashes in a downward motion, mimicking the falling raindrops. This form is known for its speed and accuracy, allowing the user to target specific demon weak points precisely and efficiently.

Eighth Form: Raging Waves - The Raging Waves form of the Water Breathing technique involves the user making sweeping horizontal slashes, creating a wave-like motion with his sword. This form is known for its wide range and destructive power, making it effective against larger and more powerful demons.

Ninth Form: Soaring Waterfall - The Soaring Waterfall form of the Water Breathing technique allows the user to deliver a powerful upward slash, mimicking the motion of a waterfall rising against gravity. This form is known for its upward momentum and ability to launch the user into the air, allowing him to reach higher demon targets or escape from dangerous situations.

Tenth Form: Dragon of Change - The Tenth Form, also known as the Dragon of Change, is the pinnacle of the Water Breathing technique. It is a powerful and complex form that combines all the previous forms, requiring exceptional skill and mastery. It allows the user to unleash an overwhelming offensive power capable of dealing significant damage to even the strongest demons.

His Role As A Mentor

As a former Water Hashira and esteemed member of the Demon Slayer Corps, Sakonji Urokodaki plays a crucial role as a mentor to young demon slayers. His experience, skills, and unwavering commitment to honor and integrity make him a trusted guide and teacher for those under his tutelage.

Urokodaki's role as a mentor is multifaceted. He not only trains his disciples in the physical aspects of demon slaying but also instills in them the values of the Demon Slayer Corps, such as courage, loyalty, and selflessness. He serves as a guiding figure, imparting his knowledge and wisdom from years of experience battling demons.

As a mentor, Urokodaki is known for his strict and disciplined approach to training. He pushes his disciples to their limits, challenging them physically and mentally to hone their skills and develop their potential. He teaches the Water Breathing techniques, helping them master the swordsmanship required to fight demons effectively.

Furthermore, Urokodaki's mentorship goes beyond combat training. He also provides guidance on strategy, tactics, and the understanding of demons, helping his disciples to develop a comprehensive knowledge of their foes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding demons' weaknesses and the need to control one's emotions in battle.

Urokodaki's role as a mentor is not limited to training in the physical and tactical aspects of demon slaying but also encompasses imparting valuable life lessons. He teaches his disciples the importance of perseverance, resilience, and self-sacrifice, instilling in them a sense of duty and responsibility as demon slayers.

As a mentor, Urokodaki's impact on his disciples, particularly Tanjiro Kamado, is profound. He serves as a guiding force, shaping their character and instilling in them the values that will guide them on their path as demon slayers. His mentorship is revered and respected, as he is regarded as a master in the Demon Slayer Corps and a beacon of wisdom and guidance.

Relationships and Interactions

Sakonji Urokodaki's relationships with other characters in the Demon Slayer anime are complex and multifaceted. As a mentor and former Water Hashira, he shares a special bond with his disciples, particularly Tanjiro Kamado, the main protagonist.

Urokodaki's relationship with Tanjiro is one of deep respect and mentorship. He recognizes Tanjiro's potential and takes him under his wing, training him rigorously and imparting his knowledge and skills. Urokodaki serves as a guiding figure, offering advice, encouragement, and tough love when needed. He instills in Tanjiro the importance of family, determination, and the values of the Demon Slayer Corps, which shape Tanjiro's character and journey as a demon slayer.

Urokodaki's relationship with Nezuko, Tanjiro's demon sister, is also noteworthy. Despite Nezuko being a demon, Urokodaki recognizes her humanity and treats her with compassion and understanding. He acknowledges her unique abilities and supports Tanjiro in his quest to find a cure for her demon condition. Urokodaki's acceptance of Nezuko and willingness to help her showcase his compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to his disciples.

As a former Water Hashira, Urokodaki also shares a respectful relationship with other members of the Demon Slayer Corps. He is known for his wisdom, experience, and unwavering commitment to the Corps' values, earning him the respect and admiration of his fellow demon slayers. His guidance and mentorship have a lasting impact on other members of the Corps, and he is regarded as a revered figure among his peers.

However, Urokodaki's relationships are not limited to his disciples and fellow demon slayers. He also has a strained relationship with demons, as he is a demon slayer who has dedicated his life to eliminating them. His past encounters with demons, including the one who turned Nezuko into a demon, have shaped his perspective and approach towards them, as he views them as dangerous enemies that must be vanquished.

Themes and Symbolism

Sakonji Urokodaki's character in the Demon Slayer anime is rich with themes and symbolism that contribute to the overarching messages conveyed in the story. His role as a mentor embodies the theme of mentorship, where he takes Tanjiro under his wing and imparts his knowledge, skills, and values to help him on his journey. Urokodaki's mentorship highlights the importance of guidance, wisdom, and selfless support in shaping a young protagonist's growth and development.

Another significant theme associated with Urokodaki's character is perseverance. As a former Water Hashira, Urokodaki has experienced challenges and hardships in his demon-slaying career. Despite facing setbacks, he remains resolute and fights against demons, showcasing unwavering determination and resilience. Urokodaki's character represents the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the need to stay steadfast in pursuit of one's goals.

Sacrifice is another theme that is associated with Urokodaki's character. He has made personal sacrifices, such as dedicating his life to training and mentoring demon slayers, forsaking a more comfortable life, and facing the dangers of demon hunting. Urokodaki's selflessness and willingness to put others before himself exemplify the theme of sacrifice, underscoring the sacrifices that demon slayers must make in their quest to protect humanity from demons.

Furthermore, Urokodaki's character symbolizes the generational legacy and responsibility in the Demon Slayer anime. As a former Water Hashira, he represents the old guard of demon slayers, passing down his knowledge and skills to the younger generation, such as Tanjiro. Urokodaki's character embodies the idea of passing the torch, with the responsibility of upholding the legacy of the Demon Slayer Corps and ensuring its survival for future generations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sakonji Urokodaki's character analysis in the Demon Slayer anime reveals him as a mentor figure with a rich background, unique personality traits, and significant relationships with other characters. His strengths, weaknesses, and symbolic role in the series highlight themes of mentorship, perseverance, and generational legacy.

As a former Water Hashira, he's the ultimate sensei, imparting his wisdom to Tanjiro and other demon slayers while also showcasing his quirky side with his love for soba noodles and his bear-like appearance. So, let's raise a bowl of soba to Urokodaki, the ultimate mentor who leaves a lasting impression with his guidance, sacrifices, and bear-sized heart!