The world of high school kendo is making a comeback! Masahiro Totsuka and Aguri Igarashi’s beloved manga series, Bamboo Blade, is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special two-part one-shot manga. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting revival.
A Nostalgic Return to the Dojo
Bamboo Blade, a popular manga and anime series that originally ran from 2004 to 2010, captivated audiences with its blend of sports action, comedy, and slice-of-life storytelling. The series follows Toraji “Kojiro” Ishida, a down-on-his-luck high school kendo instructor, who makes a bet with his former upperclassman: if Kojiro’s all-girls team can beat his senpai’s team, he’ll win a year’s worth of free sushi. With only one active member, Kojiro must quickly assemble and train a team, leading him to the gifted but initially uninterested Tamaki Kawazoe.
The 20th Anniversary One-Shot: What to Expect
The 20th-anniversary one-shot is being published in two parts in Square Enix’s Young Gangan magazine. The first part was released in the magazine’s 12th issue on June 6, 2025. Fans won’t have to wait long for the conclusion, as the second part will be in the next issue.
Episode Titles Hint at Familiar Faces
The titles of the two parts offer a glimpse into what the one-shot has in store:
- Part 1: “Muroe Kōkō Kendō-bu to ○-nen Ato” (Muroe High School Kendō Club and __ Years Later). This suggests a reunion with the kendo club members, catching up on their lives after the events of the original series.
- Part 2: “Honki Kojirō to Gachi Tama” (Serious Kojirō and Earnest Tamaki). This title hints at a return to the dynamic between the coach, Kojiro, and the talented Tamaki, perhaps with a new challenge or competition that requires their utmost dedication.
Where to Read
- Young Gangan Magazine: The one-shot is being published in Square Enix’s Young Gangan magazine. Check their website for digital options.
A Look Back at Bamboo Blade
For those unfamiliar with the series, or those wanting a refresher, here’s a deeper dive into the world of Bamboo Blade:
Story and Premise
Bamboo Blade centers around the Muroe High School kendo club and their journey to become a competitive force. The story blends elements of:
- Sports: Kendo is a central focus, with detailed depictions of training, matches, and the techniques involved in the martial art.
- Comedy: The series is known for its humor, often stemming from Kojiro’s antics, the personalities of the kendo club members, and the everyday situations they find themselves in.
- Slice of Life: Bamboo Blade explores the lives of the characters outside of kendo, showcasing their friendships, struggles, and personal growth.
Key Characters
- Toraji “Kojiro” Ishida: The kendo instructor at Muroe High School. He is often irresponsible and in debt but deeply cares about his students.
- Tamaki Kawazoe: A gifted kendo practitioner with a quiet and reserved personality. She is the daughter of a kendo master and initially hesitant to join the kendo club.
- Kirino Chiba: The energetic and determined president of the Muroe High School kendo club.
- Miyako Miyazaki: A skilled and somewhat mischievous member of the kendo club.
- Sayako Kuwahara: A kind and supportive member of the kendo club, often seen with a guitar.
- Eiga Danjuro: A cheerful and supportive member of the kendo club.
Anime Adaptation
Bamboo Blade was adapted into a 26-episode anime series by AIC A.S.T.A, which aired in Japan from October 2007 to April 2008. The anime covers the initial part of the manga storyline.
Why Bamboo Blade Resonates with Fans
Bamboo Blade has garnered a dedicated fanbase for several reasons:
- Relatable Characters: The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique personalities, motivations, and struggles.
- Balance of Genres: The series effectively blends sports, comedy, and slice-of-life elements, creating a well-rounded and engaging experience.
- Inspirational Themes: Bamboo Blade explores themes of perseverance, teamwork, and personal growth, inspiring viewers to pursue their goals.
- Accurate Depiction of Kendo: The series showcases kendo in a respectful and informative manner, highlighting the discipline, technique, and spirit of the martial art.
Where to Watch the Anime
- Funimation: Funimation licensed the anime for distribution in North America. Check Funimation’s website for streaming options.
Other Bamboo Blade Manga Series
- Bamboo Blade B: A spin-off manga series written by Masahiro Totsuka and illustrated by Neko Sutajio, which ran in Square Enix’s Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine from 2009 to 2013.
- Bamboo Blade C: A second spin-off manga, Bamboo Blade C by Totsuka and Jingu Takao, which launched in Square Enix’s Monthly Big Gangan in 2013.
- BB Deformer: A four-panel spin-off comic by Totsuka and illustrator Saki Azumi, also launched in Monthly Big Gangan in 2013.
A Slice-of-Life Kendo Classic
With its engaging story, relatable characters, and blend of genres, Bamboo Blade has solidified its place as a beloved manga and anime series. The 20th-anniversary one-shot is a testament to the series’ enduring popularity and a welcome return to the world of Muroe High School’s kendo club. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, now is the perfect time to pick up a shinai and experience the world of Bamboo Blade!
