Tokyo, Japan – September 15, 2025 – Fans of the hit action-comedy anime Sakamoto Days can now stream Episode 21, which premiered on September 15, 2025, on Netflix globally. This latest installment plunges deeper into the intense JCC Transfer Examination arc, featuring a high-stakes battle against the formidable Shinaya, controlled remotely by Gaku.
The episode, which aired in Japan on September 16 at 12:00 AM JST, became available to international audiences simultaneously, with release times including 6:00 a.m. PST, 7:00 a.m. MST, 8:00 a.m. CST, and 9:00 a.m. EST in the US.
Episode 21: A Desperate Stand Against Shinaya
Episode 21 picks up with X (Slur) and his faction actively seeking new recruits, setting a dangerous backdrop for the ongoing JCC Transfer Exams. The core of the episode revolves around the chaotic rampage of Shinaya within the examination venue. Shinaya, a cyborg under the remote control of the cunning Gaku, relentlessly attacks both examinees and examiners, throwing the entire event into disarray.
Amidst the chaos, Shin takes a determined stand, bravely facing the overwhelming power of Shinaya. He is joined by Mafuyu, Toramaru, and the usually reserved Kaji, forming a united front against the formidable foe. Despite their combined efforts, Shinaya proves to be a significantly stronger opponent, pushing Shin and his allies into a perilous situation.
Strategic Combat and Sakamoto’s Intervention
The episode highlights intense combat sequences as Shin leverages his clairvoyance, initially struggling to keep pace with Shinaya’s speed. Kaji also reveals a unique ability to mimic opponents’ attacks based solely on sound, adding a crucial layer to their defense. However, Gaku’s ruthless control over Shinaya pushes the cyborg beyond its limits, resulting in Kaji sustaining severe injuries.
Just as hope seems to wane for Shin and his companions, the legendary ex-hitman Taro Sakamoto makes a dramatic entrance. His arrival immediately shifts the tide of battle, momentarily freezing enemies and bringing relief to the beleaguered heroes. Sakamoto confronts Gaku, delivering a stern warning, and quickly engages in a display of his unparalleled combat prowess, reaffirming his status as the world’s most feared assassin despite his current appearance.
The Anime Adaptation of Sakamoto Days
The Sakamoto Days anime, produced by TMS Entertainment, began its broadcast in January 2025. The first season is split into two cours, with the initial 11 episodes airing from January 11 to March 22, 2025. The second cour, which includes Episode 21, premiered on July 15, 2025. Netflix secured the worldwide streaming rights, ensuring that new episodes are available globally shortly after their Japanese broadcast.
The anime adaptation brings to life Yuto Suzuki’s popular manga, which has been serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump since November 2020. The story follows Taro Sakamoto, a former legendary hitman who retires to lead a peaceful life as a convenience store owner with his family. However, his past continually catches up to him, forcing him to protect his loved ones using his extraordinary, albeit now somewhat out-of-shape, skills.
With the release of Episode 21, the conflict within the JCC Transfer Exam arc intensifies, setting the stage for future developments as Sakamoto and his allies confront formidable threats from his past.