Sanemi Shinazugawa, the Wind Hashira of the Demon Slayer Corps, is a whirlwind of power and fury.

A formidable swordsman wielding the Breath of Wind, his fighting style is as ferocious as his personality.

Tanjiro Kamado in Demon Slayer season 1, a featured image for ONE Esports article "Here are all Demon Slayer episodes from every season and where to watch them"
Credit: ONE Esports, ufotable, Koyoharu Gotouge
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Created by manga artist Koyoharu Gotouge, Sanemi is a complex character whose troubled past fuels his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of justice.

This article delves into the life of this enigmatic slayer, exploring the inner demons that drive him.

Warning: Major spoilers for fans who have not watched the Demon Slayer anime or read the manga.

Who is Sanemi Shinazugawa in Demon Slayer?

The Wind Hashira’s first appearance in the manga and anime

Demon Slayer Season 4 Hashira Training arc promotional image of Sanemi Shinazugawa
Credit: ufotable

Sanemi is instantly recognizable. His tall, muscular build and wild, white hair starkly contrast to the standard Demon Slayer uniform. Sharp, pale purple eyes often hold a fierce glint, reflecting the many battles he’s endured.

Scars etch across his face and torso, a constant reminder of his past encounters with demons. This imposing figure makes his first appearance in chapter 45 of the manga and episode 23 of the anime, causing a stir among the other Hashira.

Demon Slayer watch order: How to watch the anime and movies in chronological order, a ONE Esports guide
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How to watch the anime and movies in chronological order

In fact, it’s Sanemi who vehemently argues for Nezuko Kamado’s execution, making him a controversial figure from the very beginning.

Sanemi Shinazugawa’s backstory

Sanemi’s upbringing was far from idyllic. Born the eldest of seven siblings, he shouldered the responsibility of protecting his family from a cruel and abusive father.

Demon Slayer supporting character Sanemi seen with his younger brother Genya Shinazugawa
Credit: ufotable, Shueisha, Koyoharu Gotouge, Crunchyroll

Tragedy struck early when their father was murdered. Despite the hardship, Sanemi and his younger brother, Genya, found solace in their loving mother and a newfound sense of unity within the family.

However, darkness descended once more. One fateful night, Sanemi discovered a horrifying truth — his mother had become a demon.

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Who is the weakest Hashira?

Consumed by the bloodlust, she attacked their siblings. Wracked with grief and a desperate need to protect his remaining brother, Sanemi was forced to make an agonizing choice of killing their mother.

This harrowing event left an indelible scar — both physically, on his face, and emotionally, shaping him into the stoic and often abrasive swordsman we see today.

How old is Sanemi Shinazugawa?

Despite his imposing stature and battle-hardened demeanor, Sanemi is surprisingly young, at 21.

How tall is Sanemi Shinazugawa?

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Does Tanjiro become a Hashira?

Sanemi stands at 5’10” (179 cm), making him one of the tallest Hashira.

Does Sanemi Shinazugawa die?

Demon Slayer manga key visual with main characters and Hashira in ONE Esports featured image "Demon Slayer manga ending explained: Breaking down the events after the final arc"
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Manga ending explained: Breaking down the events after the final arc

Sanemi skirts the edge of death throughout the series, but fortunately for fans of the Wind Hashira, the answer is no, he does not die.

The Wind Pillar faces numerous near-death experiences during the series, particularly the grueling battles against Upper Moons Kokushibo and Muzan Kibutsuji, the series’ main antagonist.

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He sustains severe injuries and even falls unconscious at various points. However, through sheer willpower and the combined efforts of his fellow demon hunters, Sanemi manages to pull through.

How strong is Sanemi Shinazugawa?

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Who is the strongest Hashira?

Sanemi ranks among the strongest demon hunters within the Demon Slayer Corps. His mastery of the Breath of Wind and unwavering determination make him a formidable opponent, capable of battling Upper Moons—the most powerful demons—on equal footing.

Alongside the Stone Hashira Gyomei Himejima, Sanemi managed to land significant blows on Kokushibo, a demon of immense power. His incredible speed allowed him to keep pace with Kokushibo’s lightning-fast attacks, showcasing his exceptional reflexes and combat prowess.

READ MORE: Full list of all Hashira: Titles, first appearance, voice actors