The world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is filled with powerful swordsmen, legendary Hashira and warriors who dedicate their lives to protecting humanity from demons. Created by Koyoharu Gotouge, the series introduced fans to some of the most memorable anime characters of modern times.
What makes Demon Slayer special is that strength is not determined only by physical power. Experience, breathing techniques, battle intelligence, determination, and sacrifice all play major roles in deciding who stands at the top. Throughout the story, viewers witness ordinary demon slayers grow into heroes capable of fighting Upper Rank demons and even Muzan Kibutsuji himself.
In this ranking, we take a detailed look at the strongest and most important Demon Slayer characters in the series. The ranking considers their achievements, combat abilities, breathing styles, Demon Slayer Marks, and overall impact on the story.
Ranking Table
| Rank | Character | Breathing Style | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yoriichi Tsugikuni | Sun Breathing | Legendary Demon Slayer |
| 2 | Kokushibo (Former Demon Slayer) | Moon Breathing | Upper Rank One |
| 3 | Gyomei Himejima | Stone Breathing | Stone Hashira |
| 4 | Tanjiro Kamado | Sun & Water Breathing | Main Protagonist |
| 5 | Sanemi Shinazugawa | Wind Breathing | Wind Hashira |
| 6 | Obanai Iguro | Serpent Breathing | Serpent Hashira |
| 7 | Giyu Tomioka | Water Breathing | Water Hashira |
| 8 | Muichiro Tokito | Mist Breathing | Mist Hashira |
| 9 | Mitsuri Kanroji | Love Breathing | Love Hashira |
| 10 | Kanao Tsuyuri | Flower Breathing | Demon Slayer Corps |
| 11 | Zenitsu Agatsuma | Thunder Breathing | Demon Slayer Corps |
| 12 | Inosuke Hashibira | Beast Breathing | Demon Slayer Corps |
| 13 | Shinobu Kocho | Insect Breathing | Insect Hashira |
| 14 | Kyojuro Rengoku | Flame Breathing | Flame Hashira |
| 15 | Tengen Uzui | Sound Breathing | Sound Hashira |
| 16 | Kaigaku | Thunder Breathing | Former Demon Slayer |
| 17 | Genya Shinazugawa | Special Ability | Demon Slayer Corps |
| 18 | Murata | Water Breathing | Demon Slayer Corps |
Understanding Demon Slayer Rankings
Before looking at individual characters, it is important to understand how strength works in Demon Slayer. Unlike many anime series, power levels are not based solely on raw force. Several factors determine a character’s effectiveness in battle.
- Breathing Style Mastery
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Battle Experience
- Physical Strength
- Speed and Reflexes
- Special Abilities
- Combat Intelligence
- Achievements Against Upper Rank Demons
Characters who mastered multiple advanced abilities such as the Transparent World, Bright Red Blade, and Selfless State naturally rank higher than those who relied only on basic breathing techniques.
18. Murata
Murata is often overlooked because he lacks flashy battles and dramatic power-ups. However, he deserves recognition as one of the most reliable members of the Demon Slayer Corps.
Unlike many unnamed slayers who disappear after a single mission, Murata remains active throughout several major arcs. He survives dangerous encounters that wipe out countless corps members and continues fighting despite overwhelming odds.
Murata uses Water Breathing, though his mastery is much weaker than Giyu Tomioka’s. According to supplementary material, his water effects are so faint that they are nearly invisible compared to other Water Breathing users.
Despite his limitations, Murata demonstrates courage and determination. He may not be among the strongest fighters, but he represents the ordinary demon slayers who risk their lives every day.
Strengths
- Excellent survival instincts
- Reliable support fighter
- Experienced corps member
- Uses Water Breathing
Weaknesses
- Limited combat feats
- Below Hashira level
- Lacks advanced techniques
17. Genya Shinazugawa
Genya is one of the most unusual fighters in Demon Slayer because he cannot use breathing techniques. While nearly every elite slayer relies on breathing styles, Genya fights using a completely different method.
After consuming demon flesh, Genya temporarily gains demonic abilities. These powers dramatically increase his strength, durability, regeneration, and combat effectiveness.
As the younger brother of Wind Hashira Sanemi Shinazugawa, Genya grows up in a tragic environment filled with loss and suffering. His relationship with Sanemi becomes one of the most emotional storylines in the series.
During the battle against Kokushibo, Genya proves his worth by contributing significantly against the strongest Upper Rank demon. Few demon slayers can claim such an achievement.
Strengths
- Can absorb demon powers
- Exceptional durability
- Uses firearms alongside swords
- Can fight Upper Rank demons
Weaknesses
- No breathing style
- Relies heavily on consuming demons
- Less refined swordsmanship
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16. Kaigaku
Kaigaku represents one of the greatest betrayals in Demon Slayer history. Originally a disciple of Thunder Breathing, he trained alongside Zenitsu Agatsuma under the former Thunder Hashira.
Unlike Zenitsu, who only mastered the First Form, Kaigaku learned Forms Two through Six. His natural talent was undeniable, and many believed he would become the next Thunder Hashira.
Everything changed when he encountered Kokushibo. Faced with death, Kaigaku chose to become a demon rather than remain human.
After transforming into Upper Rank Six, his Thunder Breathing became even more dangerous because it combined with demonic powers and black lightning attacks.
Strengths
- Master of Thunder Breathing
- Enhanced by demon abilities
- Fast and aggressive fighter
- Upper Rank-level strength
Weaknesses
- Limited experience as a demon
- Defeated by Zenitsu
- Less skilled than elite Hashira
15. Tengen Uzui
Tengen Uzui is one of the most charismatic characters in Demon Slayer. As the Sound Hashira, he brings a unique combination of shinobi training, explosive combat techniques, and larger-than-life confidence. Everything about Tengen is flashy, from his appearance to his fighting style.
Before joining the Demon Slayer Corps, Tengen was raised as a ninja. His harsh upbringing forced him to watch his siblings die during brutal training. Because of this, he developed a strong belief that life should be valued above all else. Unlike many warriors who chase glory, Tengen places the safety of his comrades first.
His biggest moment comes during the Entertainment District Arc, where he battles the Upper Rank Six siblings, Gyutaro and Daki. This fight becomes one of the most intense battles in the entire series.
Tengen’s Sound Breathing is derived from Thunder Breathing and focuses on speed, explosions, and battlefield analysis. His most powerful ability, the Musical Score Technique, allows him to read an opponent’s movements like a song and predict their attacks.
Although he retires after losing an arm and an eye, Tengen remains one of the strongest Hashira in the series.
Strengths
- Master shinobi training
- Exceptional poison resistance
- Musical Score Technique
- Dual Nichirin blades
- Explosive combat style
Weaknesses
- Retired before the final battle
- Never unlocked the Demon Slayer Mark
- Less effective in prolonged battles
14. Kyojuro Rengoku
Kyojuro Rengoku is one of the most beloved characters in Demon Slayer. As the Flame Hashira, he represents courage, honor, and unwavering determination.
Rengoku’s positive attitude inspires everyone around him. Even in the face of impossible odds, he refuses to abandon his duty. His words and actions leave a lasting impact on Tanjiro, who continues carrying Rengoku’s ideals long after his death.
During the Mugen Train Arc, Rengoku faces Upper Rank Three Akaza alone. Despite lacking a Demon Slayer Mark and fighting without assistance, he pushes Akaza harder than most Hashira ever could.
His Flame Breathing style emphasizes powerful, direct attacks. Every strike is explosive and filled with overwhelming force. The Ninth Form, Rengoku, showcases the true power of Flame Breathing.
Many fans believe Rengoku could have become significantly stronger had he survived longer and unlocked advanced abilities such as the Demon Slayer Mark.
Strengths
- Exceptional physical strength
- Master Flame Breathing user
- Elite swordsmanship
- Strong leadership qualities
- Extraordinary determination
Weaknesses
- No Demon Slayer Mark
- Died early in the story
- Limited opportunity to grow stronger
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13. Shinobu Kocho
Shinobu Kocho is unlike any other Hashira. While most Demon Slayers rely on strength to decapitate demons, Shinobu lacks the physical power required to cut through a demon’s neck.
Instead of accepting this weakness, she transformed it into a strength. Shinobu developed a unique combat style based on poisons created from wisteria flowers.
Behind her constant smile lies a deep hatred of demons. After losing her sister Kanae and many loved ones to demon attacks, Shinobu dedicates her life to destroying Muzan’s forces.
Her Insect Breathing focuses on speed, precision, and poison delivery. Rather than overpowering enemies, she injects lethal toxins directly into their bodies.
During the Infinity Castle Arc, Shinobu sacrifices herself in one of the most important moments of the series. Her plan becomes a key factor in the defeat of Upper Rank Two, Doma.
Strengths
- Fastest Hashira-level movement
- Poison specialist
- Brilliant strategist
- Medical expertise
- Deadly precision attacks
Weaknesses
- Physically weaker than other Hashira
- Cannot naturally decapitate demons
- Relies heavily on poison effectiveness
12. Inosuke Hashibira
Inosuke Hashibira is one of the most unpredictable fighters in Demon Slayer. Raised in the mountains by wild boars, he developed a unique worldview and combat style that differs completely from traditional swordsmen.
At first glance, Inosuke appears reckless and arrogant. He constantly challenges stronger opponents and rarely thinks before acting. However, beneath his wild behavior is an incredibly talented warrior.
Unlike most breathing styles that originated from Sun Breathing, Beast Breathing was created entirely by Inosuke himself. The style mimics the instincts of wild animals and focuses on aggression, flexibility, and unpredictable movement.
His senses are among the best in the series. Inosuke can detect enemies through vibrations in the air and identify danger before it arrives.
He also possesses extraordinary flexibility, allowing him to dislocate joints, bend his body in unnatural ways, and survive injuries that would kill ordinary people.
By the end of the series, Inosuke is strong enough to fight alongside Hashira-level warriors against the most dangerous demons in existence.
Strengths
- Creator of Beast Breathing
- Exceptional instincts
- Extreme flexibility
- Enhanced senses
- Unpredictable fighting style
Weaknesses
- Impulsive decision-making
- Limited tactical planning
- Can underestimate opponents
11. Zenitsu Agatsuma
Zenitsu Agatsuma may appear cowardly, but beneath his fear lies one of the fastest fighters in Demon Slayer.
Zenitsu spends much of the series doubting himself and panicking whenever danger appears. However, when pushed to his limits, he demonstrates extraordinary talent.
Unlike other Thunder Breathing users, Zenitsu mastered only the First Form. Rather than seeing this as a weakness, he perfected it to an unbelievable level.
His signature technique, Thunderclap and Flash, becomes increasingly powerful with each variation. By the end of the story, he develops his own original Seventh Form.
The battle against Kaigaku represents Zenitsu’s greatest achievement. Facing his former senior and a newly created Upper Rank demon, Zenitsu proves that hard work and determination can surpass natural talent.
His speed is so incredible that many opponents are defeated before they even realize he has moved.
Strengths
- Lightning-fast movement
- Master of Thunderclap and Flash
- Created a unique Seventh Form
- Outstanding reaction speed
- Strong growth throughout the story
Weaknesses
- Lacks confidence
- Fear can affect performance
- Relies heavily on speed
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10. Kanao Tsuyuri
Kanao Tsuyuri begins her journey as a quiet and emotionally distant girl who struggles to make decisions for herself. Years of abuse left her unable to express emotions or trust her own judgment.
Everything changes after meeting Tanjiro. Gradually, Kanao learns to think independently and embrace her feelings.
As a fighter, she is one of the most talented Demon Slayers outside the Hashira. Trained by Kanae and Shinobu Kocho, Kanao possesses exceptional speed, swordsmanship, and battle awareness.
Her Flower Breathing techniques emphasize elegance and precision. The most powerful technique in her arsenal is Equinoctial Vermilion Eye, which dramatically enhances her visual perception and reaction speed.
This ability allows Kanao to read an opponent’s movements with incredible accuracy, though it comes at the cost of damaging her eyesight.
Her performance against Doma proves that she possesses strength comparable to many Hashira.
Strengths
- Elite reaction speed
- Flower Breathing mastery
- Extraordinary eyesight
- Highly disciplined fighter
- Hashira-level combat ability
Weaknesses
- Less experienced than senior Hashira
- Special technique damages eyesight
- Limited physical power compared to top-ranked fighters
9. Mitsuri Kanroji
Mitsuri Kanroji, the Love Hashira, is one of the most unique fighters in the Demon Slayer Corps. While her cheerful personality often makes people underestimate her, Mitsuri possesses some of the most impressive physical abilities among all Hashira.
From a young age, Mitsuri was born with muscles that were far denser than those of a normal human. Despite her slim appearance, she possesses monstrous strength that surprises both allies and enemies. This unusual body structure allows her to perform feats that most Demon Slayers could never achieve.
Mitsuri originally struggled with her identity because society viewed her extraordinary strength as strange. Joining the Demon Slayer Corps eventually helped her embrace who she truly was.
Her Love Breathing style evolved from Flame Breathing and perfectly matches her flexible body. Using a whip-like Nichirin Blade, she launches attacks from impossible angles and overwhelms opponents with rapid strikes.
During the Swordsmith Village Arc and the final battle against Muzan, Mitsuri proves why she earned the title of Hashira. Even Muzan himself acknowledges her remarkable physical capabilities.
Strengths
- Extraordinary physical strength
- Exceptional flexibility
- Unique whip-like sword
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Outstanding speed and agility
Weaknesses
- Less battle experience than senior Hashira
- Can be emotionally vulnerable
- Relies heavily on mobility
8. Muichiro Tokito
Muichiro Tokito is widely regarded as one of the greatest prodigies in Demon Slayer history. Despite being only fourteen years old, he became a Hashira after training for just two months.
At first, Muichiro appears detached and emotionally distant. However, this personality stems from the trauma of losing his twin brother and suppressing painful memories.
Once he regains his memories, Muichiro begins showing his true personality and becomes more connected to the people around him.
As the Mist Hashira, Muichiro specializes in speed, deception, and unpredictable movement. His Mist Breathing techniques confuse opponents and make it difficult to track his location.
One of Muichiro’s greatest achievements is defeating Upper Rank Five Gyokko entirely on his own after awakening his Demon Slayer Mark. Very few Hashira can claim a solo victory against an Upper Rank demon.
Later, he becomes one of the key fighters against Kokushibo. Despite suffering horrific injuries, Muichiro continues fighting until the very end.
Strengths
- Unmatched natural talent
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Transparent World
- Exceptional speed
- Upper Rank-level combat ability
Weaknesses
- Young and less experienced
- Physically smaller than most Hashira
- Can rely too much on natural talent
7. Giyu Tomioka
Giyu Tomioka is the first Hashira introduced in the series and one of the most respected members of the Demon Slayer Corps. Calm, serious, and disciplined, Giyu embodies the principles of a true swordsman.
Although he often appears emotionless, Giyu carries deep feelings of guilt and responsibility. The loss of his sister and best friend shaped his outlook on life and influenced his dedication to protecting others.
As the Water Hashira, Giyu is considered one of the greatest Water Breathing users of his generation. His mastery is so advanced that he developed an entirely new technique known as Dead Calm.
Dead Calm allows him to neutralize incoming attacks with near-perfect efficiency, making him extremely difficult to overwhelm.
During the Infinity Castle Arc, Giyu fights Upper Rank Three Akaza alongside Tanjiro. Even Akaza praises Giyu’s skill and acknowledges him as one of the strongest swordsmen he has encountered.
Strengths
- Master Water Breathing user
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Dead Calm technique
- Exceptional combat intelligence
- Outstanding endurance
Weaknesses
- Less physically powerful than Gyomei or Sanemi
- Can be emotionally withdrawn
- Not as explosive offensively as some Hashira
6. Obanai Iguro
The Serpent Hashira, Obanai Iguro, is one of the most underestimated fighters in the series. His harsh personality and strict standards often make him appear cold, but beneath that exterior lies a deeply loyal individual.
Obanai’s tragic childhood left him with emotional scars that shaped much of his worldview. Despite his suffering, he devoted his life to protecting others from demons.
His Serpent Breathing style focuses on unpredictable movements that mimic the motions of a snake. Opponents often struggle to predict the direction of his attacks.
One of Obanai’s greatest strengths is his partnership with Kaburamaru, a snake that assists him during combat. Even after suffering severe injuries and losing his eyesight during the final battle, Obanai continues fighting effectively.
His performance against Muzan is among the most impressive displays of determination in the entire series.
Strengths
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Transparent World
- Red Nichirin Blade
- Exceptional precision
- Remarkable endurance
Weaknesses
- Lower physical strength than some Hashira
- Shorter reach in combat
- Less destructive attack power
5. Sanemi Shinazugawa
Sanemi Shinazugawa is one of the fiercest warriors in the Demon Slayer Corps. As the Wind Hashira, he combines incredible combat instincts with relentless aggression.
At first glance, Sanemi appears hostile and reckless. However, much of his anger comes from the trauma of losing family members to demons.
His relationship with his younger brother Genya is one of the most emotional storylines in Demon Slayer. Although he often pushes Genya away, Sanemi does so because he wants to protect him.
In battle, Sanemi is a nightmare for demons. His rare Marechi blood is especially intoxicating to demons and can disrupt their concentration.
During the fight against Kokushibo, Sanemi demonstrates why he is considered one of the strongest Hashira. Even after suffering severe injuries, he continues battling one of the most powerful demons in existence.
Strengths
- Elite combat instincts
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Marechi blood
- Exceptional endurance
- Master Wind Breathing user
Weaknesses
- Aggressive personality
- Can take unnecessary risks
- Less tactical than some fighters
4. Tanjiro Kamado
Tanjiro Kamado is the heart of Demon Slayer. Unlike many protagonists who are driven by revenge, Tanjiro is motivated by compassion and the desire to protect others.
After his family is slaughtered and Nezuko becomes a demon, Tanjiro begins a journey that transforms him from an ordinary boy into one of the strongest Demon Slayers in history.
Throughout the series, Tanjiro continuously evolves. He masters Water Breathing, learns the Hinokami Kagura, awakens the Demon Slayer Mark, accesses the Transparent World, and eventually unlocks the true potential of Sun Breathing.
What makes Tanjiro exceptional is his adaptability. He learns from every battle and consistently finds ways to overcome stronger opponents.
By the final arc, he is capable of fighting Upper Rank demons and even Muzan himself, placing him among the greatest Demon Slayers ever produced by the Corps.
Strengths
- Sun Breathing mastery
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Transparent World
- Selfless State
- Extraordinary adaptability
Weaknesses
- Less experienced than legendary slayers
- Can push his body beyond safe limits
- Still developing compared to Yoriichi
3. Gyomei Himejima
Gyomei Himejima stands at the pinnacle of the modern Demon Slayer Corps. Revered by both allies and enemies, the Stone Hashira is widely recognized as the strongest active Demon Slayer during the events of the series.
Despite his massive build and intimidating appearance, Gyomei is a deeply compassionate person. He is highly religious, constantly carries prayer beads, and often sheds tears when reflecting on the suffering of others. His kindness contrasts sharply with the overwhelming power he displays on the battlefield.
Gyomei’s tragic past shaped his unwavering determination. Before joining the Demon Slayer Corps, he cared for orphaned children at a temple. After a devastating demon attack changed his life forever, he dedicated himself to protecting humanity.
Unlike most Demon Slayers who wield swords, Gyomei fights using a chained flail and axe. This unique weapon combination allows him to attack from multiple angles while maintaining tremendous power.
During the battle against Kokushibo, even Upper Rank One acknowledges Gyomei as the strongest warrior he had encountered in centuries. Such praise from the most powerful demon beneath Muzan speaks volumes about Gyomei’s abilities.
After awakening his Demon Slayer Mark and accessing the Transparent World, Gyomei becomes even more dangerous. His strength, speed, and combat awareness reach levels that few humans could ever hope to achieve.
Strengths
- Strongest active Hashira
- Demon Slayer Mark
- Transparent World
- Bright Red Nichirin Weapon
- Extraordinary physical strength
- Elite battle awareness
Weaknesses
- Limited mobility compared to faster fighters
- Large frame can make him a bigger target
- Relies heavily on close-range combat
2. Kokushibo
Kokushibo is not only the strongest Upper Rank demon but also one of the most tragic characters in the entire series.
Long before becoming a demon, Kokushibo was known as Michikatsu Tsugikuni, the older twin brother of Yoriichi Tsugikuni. Although Michikatsu was an exceptionally talented swordsman, he spent his entire life living in the shadow of his younger brother’s genius.
This jealousy slowly consumed him. Unable to accept Yoriichi’s overwhelming superiority, Michikatsu eventually abandoned his humanity and became a demon under Muzan Kibutsuji.
As Upper Rank One, Kokushibo possesses nearly five centuries of combat experience. His mastery of Moon Breathing creates devastating crescent-shaped attacks that fill entire battlefields.
His speed, durability, and regeneration far surpass those of ordinary demons. Even multiple Hashira fighting together struggle to withstand his attacks.
One of Kokushibo’s most terrifying abilities is his capacity to evolve during combat. His living flesh sword, demonic enhancements, and mastery of advanced techniques make him nearly impossible to defeat.
The battle against Gyomei, Sanemi, Muichiro, and Genya demonstrates just how overwhelming his power truly is. It takes the combined efforts of several elite fighters to bring him down.
Despite his immense strength, Kokushibo’s story ultimately revolves around regret. In his final moments, he realizes that his pursuit of power cost him everything that truly mattered.
Strengths
- Strongest Upper Rank demon
- Moon Breathing mastery
- Centuries of experience
- Near-limitless regeneration
- Transparent World
- Monstrous physical abilities
Weaknesses
- Emotional attachment to his past
- Internal conflict and regret
- Ultimately surpassed by Yoriichi
1. Yoriichi Tsugikuni
At the very top of the rankings stands Yoriichi Tsugikuni, the greatest Demon Slayer in history.
No other character comes close to matching his achievements. Even centuries after his death, his name remains legendary among both Demon Slayers and demons.
Yoriichi was born with extraordinary gifts. He naturally possessed the Demon Slayer Mark, the Transparent World, and abilities that exceeded human limitations.
As a child, he demonstrated talent that astonished experienced warriors. Later, he would create Sun Breathing, the original breathing style from which all other breathing techniques evolved.
The greatest demonstration of his power came during his encounter with Muzan Kibutsuji. Yoriichi nearly killed the Demon King in a single battle and inflicted scars that never healed, even hundreds of years later.
Muzan, who feared no other human, spent centuries terrified that another warrior like Yoriichi might appear.
Even in old age, Yoriichi remained unbelievably powerful. During his final encounter with Kokushibo, he nearly defeated Upper Rank One despite being over eighty years old.
What truly separates Yoriichi from everyone else is that his strength was matched by his compassion. He never sought power for personal gain and remained humble despite possessing abilities beyond imagination.
His legacy continues through the Sun Breathing techniques eventually inherited by Tanjiro Kamado.
Strengths
- Strongest Demon Slayer in history
- Creator of Sun Breathing
- Demon Slayer Mark from birth
- Transparent World
- Selfless State
- Unmatched speed and swordsmanship
- Nearly killed Muzan alone
Weaknesses
- No significant combat weaknesses shown
- Human lifespan eventually caught up to him
Strongest Hashira Ranking
| Rank | Hashira | Breathing Style |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gyomei Himejima | Stone Breathing |
| 2 | Sanemi Shinazugawa | Wind Breathing |
| 3 | Giyu Tomioka | Water Breathing |
| 4 | Obanai Iguro | Serpent Breathing |
| 5 | Muichiro Tokito | Mist Breathing |
| 6 | Mitsuri Kanroji | Love Breathing |
| 7 | Kyojuro Rengoku | Flame Breathing |
| 8 | Tengen Uzui | Sound Breathing |
| 9 | Shinobu Kocho | Insect Breathing |
Origin of the Breathing Styles
Every breathing style in Demon Slayer originates from Sun Breathing, the technique created by Yoriichi Tsugikuni.
Because most swordsmen could not replicate Sun Breathing’s complexity, alternative styles were developed. These eventually became the core breathing techniques used by the Demon Slayer Corps.
| Breathing Style | Derived From | Main User |
|---|---|---|
| Sun Breathing | Original Style | Yoriichi, Tanjiro |
| Water Breathing | Sun Breathing | Giyu |
| Flame Breathing | Sun Breathing | Rengoku |
| Wind Breathing | Sun Breathing | Sanemi |
| Stone Breathing | Sun Breathing | Gyomei |
| Thunder Breathing | Sun Breathing | Zenitsu |
| Mist Breathing | Wind Breathing | Muichiro |
| Love Breathing | Flame Breathing | Mitsuri |
| Serpent Breathing | Water Breathing | Obanai |
| Insect Breathing | Flower Breathing | Shinobu |
| Beast Breathing | Self-Created | Inosuke |
| Moon Breathing | Sun Breathing | Kokushibo |
| Sound Breathing | Thunder Breathing | Tengen |
Yoriichi Tsugikuni is the strongest character in Demon Slayer. He created Sun Breathing, possessed the Demon Slayer Mark from birth, and nearly killed Muzan Kibutsuji in a single battle.
Gyomei Himejima, the Stone Hashira, is widely recognized as the strongest Hashira. Even Kokushibo acknowledged his incredible power and combat abilities.
By the end of the series, Tanjiro reaches a level comparable to the strongest Hashira. However, he does not clearly surpass fighters like Gyomei or prime Yoriichi.