Rurouni Kenshin Season 2 Episodes 1-2: The Kyoto Uprising Begins

Forget waiting for Jump Festa announcements—Rurouni Kenshin’s second season is finally here, and it’s kicking off with a bang. Titled Kyoto Uprising, these first two episodes drop us right into the chaos of Meiji-era Japan, where Kenshin Himura’s past as the legendary assassin Battousai isn’t just haunting him—it’s about to burn everything down.

The Setup: Kenshin’s Fateful Mission

After the heart-wrenching Season 1 finale (where Minister Okubo was assassinated by Shishio’s men), Kenshin is forced to leave the Kamiya Dojo behind. Episode 1, “To Kyoto,” opens with our favorite red-haired rurouni boarding a ship, his reverse-blade sword heavy at his side. The government needs him to stop Makoto Shishio—a former assassin left for dead by the very regime he helped build—who’s now plotting to overthrow the Meiji government from Kyoto.

Liden Films doesn’t waste time with filler. The animation is crisp, with vibrant colors that pop (though some fans miss the 90s’ darker, grittier tone). But let’s be real—those fight scenes? Chef’s kiss. When Kenshin clashes with Shishio’s lieutenants in Episode 2, “On the East Sea Road,” every slash of his sword feels impactful, thanks to dynamic camera angles and bone-crunching sound effects. You can practically feel the tension in the air as he faces off against enemies who know his every move.

The Shishio Tease: A Villain Worth Waiting For

Shishio himself is only glimpsed briefly, but those moments are chilling. His charred face (a reminder of the fire that should’ve killed him) and cold, calculating smile hint at a villain far more menacing than any Kenshin’s faced before. Fans are already losing it over his introduction—one MyAnimeList user called him “the best villain in the series,” and honestly? We can see why. Shishio isn’t just evil; he’s a mirror to Kenshin, a man who let his rage consume him instead of choosing redemption.

The Emotional Core: Kenshin’s Goodbye

But it’s not all action. The scenes between Kenshin and Kaoru are the real gut-punch. When he hugs her before leaving, you can see the pain in his eyes—he’s terrified of losing her, but he knows he can’t run from his past anymore. Some fans argue the 90s version’s goodbye was more heartfelt, but there’s something raw about this remake’s take. It’s less melodramatic, more real—like watching a friend leave for a battle they might not return from.

Fan Reactions: Nostalgia vs. New Blood

The internet is split, and that’s okay. Longtime fans are comparing every frame to the original, with some complaining the remake feels “too happy” (the bright color palette does take some getting used to). But new viewers? They’re obsessed. One TikTok user raved, “I’ve never seen the original, but this has me hooked!” And honestly, that’s the point of a remake—introducing a classic to a new generation while giving old fans something to debate.

Why You Can’t Miss This

Kyoto Uprising isn’t just a sequel—it’s a turning point. Kenshin’s journey from assassin to hero is about to get personal, and Shishio’s rebellion threatens everything he’s fought to protect. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the fights, or the feels, these first two episodes deliver.

So grab your popcorn, charge your phone (for those mid-episode TikTok reactions), and get ready. The road to Kyoto is paved with swords, secrets, and a whole lot of heart. And trust us—you don’t want to miss what happens next.

Rurouni Kenshin: Kyoto Uprising is streaming now. Let the chaos begin. ⚔️🔥