Universal Studios Japan is set to revive the much-loved Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba theme park attraction, inspired by the “soul-trembling” film Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train. This thrilling news was disclosed by Universal Studios Japan on X, marking the return of the Demon Slayer-themed XR (extended reality) roller coaster that offers an immersive experience aboard the Mugen Train locomotive alongside beloved characters Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and the iconic Flame Hashira, Rengoku.
Originally debuting at USJ in 2021, the attraction garnered immense popularity but saw closure in early 2022 as part of the temporary Demon Slayer exhibits. Now, Universal Studios plans to bring back this enchanting ride, promising more details, including a release date, to be unveiled on their official website.
The ride is an extension of the narrative presented in Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train, the sequel film following the first season of the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba anime series. The franchise, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, revolves around Tanjiro Kamado’s journey as a demon slayer seeking vengeance for his family’s tragic fate while battling supernatural forces and bonding with fellow demon slayers.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba initially gained widespread acclaim as a manga series in Weekly Shōnen Jump in 2016, propelled by its captivating storytelling and visually stunning art style. The subsequent anime adaptation by Ufotable in 2019 catapulted the series to international stardom, becoming one of the decade’s most popular and well-received anime productions.
Demon Slayer the Movie: Mugen Train premiered in Japan in 2020 and became a global phenomenon despite pandemic-related challenges. The film explores Tanjiro’s quest, accompanied by his sister and fellow demon slayers, as they confront perilous demons within the confines of a train while delving into their own past traumas and growth.
A pivotal character introduced in the film is the Flame Hashira, Rengoku, whose memorable battle against the Third Upper Moon demon Akaza and inspirational words—”No matter how devastated you may be by your own weakness or uselessness… set your heart ablaze”—resonated deeply with fans. The film, capturing the essence of a “soul-trembling feeling,” went on to become the most successful anime film of all time and the highest-grossing film globally in 2020.
With the anime’s third season, the “Swordsmith Village Arc,” concluding in June, Demon Slayer enthusiasts eagerly await the announced fourth season adapting the “Hashira Training Arc.” Meanwhile, Japanese fans can immerse themselves in the Mugen Train experience at Universal Studios Japan.
For fans worldwide, all anime seasons of Demon Slayer are available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, and Crunchyroll. As the Demon Slayer saga continues to captivate audiences, the revival of the theme park attraction promises a nostalgic and thrilling journey for fans both in Japan and around the globe.
