Episodes
From Bleach Wiki
This is a list of episodes for the ongoing Bleach anime series. This list is broken into several story arcs and includes a summary of each story arc and the original broadcast date for each episode. With the exception of the two arcs focusing on the Bount, New Captain Shūsuke Amagai and Zanpakutō Unknown Tales, each arc is an adaptation of the original Bleach manga by Tite Kubo. The Bount arcs, The New Captain Shūsuke Amagai and Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arcs are anime-only arcs that were produced to allow time for Tite Kubo to advance the storyline in the manga. Most of the later English titles are translations from the Japanese titles. Those episodes with official English titles have the title shown above the translation of its Japanese equivalent.
Episode list
Agent of the Shinigami arc
Main article: The Shinigami Saga
Also known by its English adaptation title, "The Substitute" arc, the first Bleach story arc is twenty episodes in length, and initially aired in Japan from October 2004 through February 2005 and in the US from September 2006 to January 2007.
Ichigo Kurosaki is a 15 year old teenager with an unwanted talent for seeing ghosts. This talent allows him to spot the Shinigami Rukia Kuchiki, whom he inadvertently interferes with during her duties. When Rukia is injured by a Hollow that attacks Ichigo's home, Ichigo is forced to temporarily take her Shinigami powers to defeat the Hollow. The next day, Rukia shows up at Ichigo's school as a normal human. She tells him that she has lost all of her powers, rather than merely the fraction she intended to give him, and cannot carry out her duties. Ichigo must take her place as Karakura Town's Shinigami while she recovers, guiding souls to the afterlife and defending people from attacking Hollows.
Ichigo's spiritual power as a Shinigami is surprisingly large, attracting hungry Hollows and even affecting nearby humans by awakening any spiritual powers they possess. His powers also attract an enemy of another type: Uryū Ishida, one of the few remaining Quincy, a race of spiritually-empowered humans who were butchered by the Shinigami long ago. In order to prove the Quincy are better than Shinigami, he challenges Ichigo to a Hollow hunting contest. This goes horribly awry, as the bait Uryū uses to start the contest is far more effective than intended, summoning legions of Hollows. During this contest, Yasutora "Chad" Sado and Orihime Inoue, two of Ichigo's friends, have their own spiritual abilities awakened when they are assaulted by Hollows. Uryū and Ichigo eventually ally to drive off the Hollows.
As the remainder of the school year passes, Ichigo, Rukia, Chad, Orihime, and Uryū become close friends. Rukia begins to grow comfortable with life in the living world but realizes that she needs to leave. Having already spent too much time in the living world without permission, she has become a wanted criminal. Her superiors in Soul Society send two elite Shinigami, Renji Abarai and Byakuya Kuchiki, to arrest her. Ichigo tries to prevent the arrest, but his efforts are in vain. Not only is he defeated, but Byakuya strips him of the Shinigami powers Rukia had given him. Rukia is taken to Soul Society, where she is put on death row.
Kisuke Urahara, a mysterious shopkeeper and ex-Soul Society resident, approaches Ichigo with a way to recover his powers and save Rukia: Ichigo must die, and then find the Shinigami powers hidden within his own soul before he becomes a Hollow. Ichigo narrowly succeeds in this endeavor, but emerges from the training stronger than he ever was before. Ichigo, Chad, Orihime, and Uryū then set off for Soul Society, led by one of Urahara's friends, a talking cat named Yoruichi.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "The Day I Became a Shinigami"
"Shinigami ni natchatta hi" (死神になっちゃった日) | October 5, 2004 | September 8, 2006 |
| "The Shinigami's Work"
"Shinigami no oshigoto" (死神のお仕事) | October 12, 2004 | September 15, 2006 |
| "The Older Brother's Wish, the Younger Sister's Wish"
"Ani no omoi, imōto no omoi" (兄の想い、妹の想い) | October 19, 2004 | September 22, 2006 |
| "Cursed Parakeet"
"Noroi no inko" (呪いのインコ) | October 26, 2004 | September 29, 2006 |
| "Beat the Invisible Enemy!"
"Mienai teki o nagure!" (見えない敵を殴れ!) | November 2, 2004 | October 6, 2006 |
| "Fight to the Death! Ichigo vs. Ichigo"
"Shitō! Ichigo vs Ichigo" (死闘！一護VSイチゴ) | November 9, 2004 | October 13, 2006 |
| "Greetings from a Stuffed Lion"
"Nuigurumi kara KONnichiwa" (ぬいぐるみからコンにちは) | November 16, 2004 | October 20, 2006 |
| "June 17, Memories in the Rain"
"Rokugatsu jūnananichi, ame no kioku" (6月17日、雨の記憶) | November 23, 2004 | October 27, 2006 |
| "Unbeatable Enemy"
"Taosenai teki" (倒せない敵) | November 30, 2004 | November 3, 2006 |
| "Assault on Trip at Sacred Ground!"
"Burari reiba totsugeki no tabi!" (ぶらり霊場突撃の旅!) | December 7, 2004 | November 10, 2006 |
| "The Legendary Quincy"
"Densetsu no Kuinshī" (伝説のクインシー) | December 14, 2004 | November 17, 2006 |
| "A Gentle Right Arm"
"Yasashii migiude" (やさしい右腕) | December 21, 2004 | November 24, 2006 |
| "Flower and Hollow"
"Hana to horō" (花とホロウ) | December 28, 2004 | December 1, 2006 |
| "Back to Back, a Fight to the Death!"
"Senaka awase no shitō!" (背中合わせの死闘!) | January 11, 2005 | December 8, 2006 |
| "Kon's Great Plan"
"Kon no UHAUHA daisakusen" (コンのウハウハ大作戦) | January 18, 2005 | December 15, 2006 |
| "The Encounter, Abarai Renji!"
"Abarai Renji, misan!" (阿散井恋次、見参!) | January 25, 2005 | December 22, 2006 |
| "Ichigo Dies!"
"Ichigo, shisu!" (一護、死す!) | February 1, 2005 | January 5, 2007 |
| "Reclaim! The Power of the Shinigami"
"Torimodose! Shinigami no chikara!" (取り戻せ! 死神の力!) | February 8, 2005 | January 12, 2007 |
| "Ichigo Becomes a Hollow!"
"Ichigo, horō ni ochiru!" (一護、ホロウに墜ちる!) | February 15, 2005 | January 19, 2007 |
| "Ichimaru Gin's Shadow"
"Ichimaru Gin no kage" (市丸ギンの影) | February 22, 2005 | January 26, 2007 |
Soul Society: The Sneak Entry arc
This story arc is twenty-one episodes long, and aired in Japan between March 2005 and July 2005. Subtitled the "The Entry" in the US, it aired from February 2007 to July 2007.
Ichigo, Chad, Orihime, Uryū, and Yoruichi arrive in Soul Society, but are stopped from entering the gate of the Shinigami citadel Seireitei by Shinigami captain Gin Ichimaru, and must seek another entrance. Yoruichi takes the group to the home of her old friend Kūkaku Shiba, who owns a giant cannon usually used for fireworks, but is capable of launching other objects anywhere. Kūkaku agrees to fire them into Seireitei, and sends an assistant with their group, her brother Ganju Shiba, who has hated the Shinigami organization ever since his Shinigami elder brother Kaien Shiba was killed by another Shinigami during a mission. The cannon is a partial success and the party lands in Seireitei, albeit with its members split up.
Meanwhile, the flashy entrance attracts the attention of the highest Shinigami military command, which issues orders mandating the immediate capture of the intruders. Ichigo and company all continue to advance through Seireitei regardless, making short work of the rank-and-file Shinigami and lower officers who oppose them. This lasts until Ichigo and Ganju, who landed together, encounter lieutenant Renji Abarai. Ichigo defeats hims, alarming the Shinigami command enough that the captains themselves are sent out to pursue them. Another captain, Sōsuke Aizen, is found brutally murdered the next morning, sparking an internal conflict among the Shinigami, several of whom suspect other Shinigami officers of the murder.
Ichigo and Ganju are met by Kenpachi Zaraki, a bloodthirsty captain with the reputation of being unbeatable, as they are approaching Rukia's prison. Ichigo sends Ganju on to break Rukia out of jail, while he duels Kenpachi alone. Kenpachi and Ichigo fight until they are both nearly dead, both ultimately admitting defeat and collapsing. After the fight, Ichigo is healed by Yoruichi who then reveals that he is not a cat but a woman, and that she and Urahara are both actually ex-Shinigami.
Ganju reaches Rukia's prison, where he discovers that she is the Shinigami who killed his brother, Kaien. A flashback scene ensues, in which it is shown that Rukia killed Kaien only after his body had been completely taken over by a Hollow, but that Rukia still feels guilty for his death. They are interrupted by the arrival of captain Byakuya Kuchiki, who noticed the prison being opened. Byakuya defeats Ganju, but Ichigo comes flying to the rescue, and a brief battle takes place. Yoruichi arrives on the scene but knocks Ichigo unconscious to end the fight.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Enter! The World of the Shinigami"
"Totsunyū! Shinigami no sekai" (突入！死神の世界) | March 1, 2005 | February 2, 2007 |
| "The Man who Hates Shinigami"
"Shinigami o nikumu otoko" (死神を憎む男) | March 8, 2005 | February 9, 2007 |
| "14 Days Before Rukia's Execution"
"Rukia shokei, jūyokka mae" (ルキア処刑、14日前) | March 15, 2005 | February 16, 2007 |
| "Assemble! The 13 Divisions"
"Kesshū! Gotei jūsantai" (結集！護廷13隊) | March 22, 2005 | February 23, 2007 |
| "Penetrate the Center with an Enormous Bombshell?"
"Kyodai hōdan de chūō toppa?" (巨大砲弾で中央突破?) | March 29, 2005 | March 2, 2007 |
| "Formation! The Worst Tag"
"Kessei! Saiaku no taggu" (結成! 最悪のタッグ) | April 5, 2005 | March 9, 2007 |
| "Release the Death Blow!"
"Hissatsu no ichigeki o hanate!" (必殺の一撃を放て!) | April 12, 2005 | March 25, 2007 |
| "Orihime Targeted"
"Nerawareta Orihime" (狙われた織姫) | April 19, 2005 | April 8, 2007 |
| "Breakthrough! The Shinigami's Encompassing Net"
"Toppaseyo! Shinigami hōimō" (突破せよ! 死神包囲網) | April 26, 2005 | April 15, 2007 |
| "Renji's Confrontation"
"Tachihadakaru Renji" (立ちはだかる恋次) | May 3, 2005 | April 22, 2007 |
| "The Resolution to Kill"
"Kiru tame no kakugo" (斬る為の覚悟) | May 10, 2005 | April 29, 2007 |
| "Stars and the Stray"
"Hoshi to norainu" (星と野良犬) | May 17, 2005 | May 6, 2007 |
| "Miracle! The Mysterious New Hero"
"Kiseki! Nazo no shinhīrō" (奇跡！謎の新ヒーロー) | May 26, 2005 | May 13, 2007 |
| "Tragedy of Dawn"
"Yoake no sangeki" (夜明けの惨劇) | June 1, 2005 | May 20, 2007 |
| "Aizen Assassinated! The Darkness which Approaches"
"Aizen ansatsu! Shinobiyoru yami" (藍染暗殺！忍び寄る闇) | June 7, 2005 | May 27, 2007 |
| "Zaraki Kenpachi Approaches!"
"Zaraki Kenpachi semaru!" (更木剣八、迫る!) | June 14, 2005 | June 9, 2007 |
| "Motive of the Fist"
"Ken no riyū" (拳の理由) | June 21, 2005 | June 16, 2007 |
| "Desperation! The Broken Zangetsu"
"Zettaizetsumei! Orareta Zangetsu" (絶対絶命! 折られた斬月) | June 28, 2005 | June 23, 2007 |
| "The Immortal Man"
"Fujimi no otoko" (不死身の男) | July 5, 2005 | June 30, 2007 |
| "The Shinigami whom Ganju Met"
"Ganju no mita Shinigami" (岩鷲の見た死神) | July 12, 2005 | July 7, 2007 |
| "Reunion, Ichigo and Rukia"
"Saikai, Ichigo to Rukia" (再会、一護とルキア) | July 19, 2005 | July 14, 2007 |
Soul Society: The Rescue arc
The third Bleach story arc is presented in a series of twenty-two episodes, and ran from July 2005 to January 2006 in Japan and in the US from July 2007 to May 2008.
Yoruichi knocks Ichigo unconscious when he refuses to leave, and manages to escape Byakuya with Ichigo. After Ichigo regains consciousness, Yoruichi begins to train him to use his Bankai, the most powerful form of Zanpakutō. Renji later joins to train with them as well, bringing news that Rukia's execution date has again changed. Meanwhile, Uryū and Orihime are confronted by Shinigami captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi. Uryū battles him but is quickly disabled by the shikai of Mayuri's Zanpakutō. Even after Uryū overcomes this with the Quincy technique Ransōtengai, Mayuri is still too much for Uryū, who is forced to remove his Sanrei glove. Uryū then completely overwhelms Mayuri, even after Mayuri uses his Bankai, but is unable to finish him, as Mayuri escapes by turning himself into a liquid.
Meanwhile, Shinigami officers are fighting throughout Seireitei. Shinigami captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya confronts fellow captain Gin Ichimaru, whom Hitsugaya believes killed Aizen, and battles him. Ichimaru retreats after lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto arrives. The next day, Kenpachi rescues Ichigo's comrades, but is stopped by Shinigami captains Sajin Komamura and Kaname Tōsen. Kenpachi manages to defeat Tōsen, even after Tōsen uses his Bankai. Elsewhere, Renji attempts to rescue Rukia, but is stopped by Byakuya. Renji, despite using his newly acquired Bankai, is defeated by Byakuya. Finally, Rukia's execution begins, but she is saved by Ichigo and sympathetic captains Shunsui Kyōraku and Jūshirō Ukitake.
While Rukia is spirited away by Renji, numerous Shinigami officers start to battle each other. Ichigo defeats three lieutenants that were pursuing Renji and is then engaged by Byakuya. Ichigo was about to die in the battle but his Hollow self takes control of him and attacks Byakuya with more powerful attacks. Ichigo then manages to retake control of himself in the battle. Using his Bankai, Ichigo manages to battle Byakuya on even footing, and narrowly defeats him. Kyōraku and Ukitake flee the execution area for a more secluded place to battle Captain-Commander Shigekuni Yamamoto-Genryūsai. Yamamoto incinerates the surrounding area with his Shikai, and begins to battle his former students. Captain Soifon is similarly accosted by Yoruichi, her former mentor. In a tearful encounter, Yoruichi defeats her using the Shunkō technique, but was underestimated earlier because of her avoidance of battle for many years.
Hitsugaya, while searching the Central 46 Chambers, discovers that Aizen is alive, and is the mastermind behind the events that have transpired in Soul Society. Aizen then effortlessly defeats Hitsugaya and travels to the execution area. As Rukia has been sent there by Tōsen, Aizen's accomplice, Aizen extracts the Orb of Distortion from her, despite the efforts of Renji, Ichigo and Captain Komamura. However, before Aizen can flee, the entire officer corps of the Gotei 13 stops him. However, the arrival of several Menos Grande enable Aizen and his accomplices to escape to Hueco Mundo. Ichigo and his friends then return to the real world, leaving Rukia behind on her request.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Yoruichi, Goddess of Flash, Dances!"
"Shunshin Yoruichi, mau!" (瞬神夜一、舞う!) | July 26, 2005 | July 21, 2007 |
| "The Despicable Shinigami"
"Hiretsu na Shinigami" (卑劣な死神) | August 2, 2005 | July 28, 2007 |
| "Ishida's Ultimate Power!"
"Ishida, kyokugen no chikara!" (石田、極限の力!) | August 9, 2005 | August 4, 2007 |
| "Overcome Your Limits!"
"Genkai o koero!" (限界を越えろ!) | August 16, 2005 | August 11, 2007 |
| "Authentic Records! School of Shinigami"
"Jitsuroku! Shinigami no gakkō" (実録! 死神の学校) | August 23, 2005 | August 18, 2007 |
| "The Avengers"
"Adautsu monotachi" (仇討つ者たち) | August 30, 2005 | September 1, 2007 |
| "Hitsugaya Howls!"
"Hitsugaya, hoeru!" (日番谷、吼える!) | September 6, 2005 | September 8, 2007 |
| "Rukia's Nightmare"
"Rukia no akumu" (ルキアの悪夢) | September 13, 2005 | September 15, 2007 |
| "The Reviving Lion"
"Yomigaeru shishi" (よみがえる獅子) | September 20, 2005 | September 22, 2007 |
| "Morning of the Sentence"
"Shokei no asa" (処刑の朝) | September 27, 2005 | October 6, 2007 |
| "Renji, Oath of the Soul! Death Match with Byakuya"
"Renji, tamashii no chikai! Byakuya to no shitō" (恋次、魂の誓い! 白哉との死闘) | October 4, 2005[1] | October 13, 2007 |
| "Gin Ichimaru's Temptation, Resolution Shattered"
"Ichimaru Gin no yūwaku, kuzusareta kakugo" (市丸ギンの誘惑、崩された覚悟) | October 4, 2005[1] | March 2, 2008 |
| "An Accomplished Oath! Get back Rukia!"
"Hatasareru chikai! Rukia dakkan naru ka!" (果たされる誓い! ルキア奪還なるか) | October 18, 2005 | March 9, 2008 |
| "The Strongest Shinigami! Ultimate Confrontation Between Teacher and Students"
"Saikyō no Shinigami! Kyūkyaku no shitei taiketsu" (最強の死神! 究極の師弟対決) | October 25, 2005 | March 16, 2008 |
| "Supersonic Battle! Determine the Goddess of Battle"
"Chōsoku no tatakai! Bu no megami, kessu" (超速の戦い! 武の女神、決す) | November 1, 2005 | March 23, 2008 |
| "Senbonzakura, Crushed! Zangetsu Thrusts through the Sky"
"Senbonzakura, funsai! Ten o tsuku zangetsu" (千本桜、粉砕! 天を衝く斬月) | November 8, 2005 | March 30, 2008 |
| "Unseal! The Black Blade, the Miraculous Power"
"Kaihō! Kuroki yaiba, kiseki no chikara" (開放! 黒き刃、奇跡の力) | November 15, 2005 | April 6, 2008 |
| "Conclusion of the Death Match! White Pride and Black Desire"
"Shitō ketchaku! Shiroki hokori to kuroki omoi" (死闘決着! 白き誇りと黒き想い) | November 22, 2005 | April 13, 2008 |
| "Reality of the Despair, the Assassin's Dagger is Swung"
"Zetsubō no shinjitsu, furiorosareta kyōjin" (絶望の真実、振り下ろされた凶刃) | December 6, 2005 | April 20, 2008 |
| "Aizen Stands! Horrible Ambitions"
"Aizen, tatsu! Osorubeki yabō" (藍染、立つ! 恐るべき野望) | December 13, 2005 | April 27, 2008 |
| "Gather Together! Group of the Strongest Shinigami!"
"Shūketsu seyo! Saikyō no Shinigami shūdan" (集結せよ! 最強の死神集団) | December 20, 2005 | May 4, 2008 |
 [2]
| "Rukia's Resolution, Ichigo's Feelings"
"Rukia no ketsui, Ichigo no omoi" (ルキアの決意、一護の想い) | January 10, 2006 | May 11, 2008 |
The Bount arc
Main article: The Bount arc
The Bount arc is an anime-only arc made to allow Tite Kubo to publish more material. It contains twenty-eight episodes, and aired in Japan from January 2006 to August 2006 and in the US from May 2008 to December 2008.
Ichigo and his friends (without Rukia) return to the real world, where they resume their daily lives. Renji then arrives, and Orihime and Chad are spirited away by three mysterious figures. They lure Ichigo and his friends into a game, with the lives of his friends in jeopardy. After a series of escapades, the three figures are revealed to be modified souls made by Kisuke Urahara. Urahara tells Ichigo and his friends of the Bount, a group of empowered humans that can live forever via absorbing souls. Shortly afterwards, Ichigo fights the Bount Yoshino Sōma. Yoshino manages to defeat Ichigo, and nearly kills him until Rukia arrives just in time.
The reunion is short lived since Ichigo and his group then encounter another Bount, Ryō Utagawa. Utagawa fights Ichigo and his friends, and manages to capture Uryū and escape. However, Yoshino rescues Uryū and reveals that the Bount require a Quincy for their plans. She then drops Uryū at a hospital, where he is attacked by the Bount twins Hō and Ban. The arrival of Ganju Shiba and Hanatarō Yamada results in the death of both Bounts. In Soul Society, the presence of the Bount has alarmed the higher echelons of the Gotei 13, who begin to research the Bount threat. Meanwhile, Ichigo and his friends have located the Bount's base. Ichigo fights Utagawa, but their fight is halted when Utagawa attempts to betray Jin Kariya, the Bount leader. Maki Ichinose, a Shinigami deserter from the 11th Division, kills Utagawa and begins to fight Ichigo.
Ichinose's fight with Ichigo is quickly halted by Kariya, who fights Ichigo and easily defeats him. Ichigo is depressed after this fight, but Renji and Ganju fight him to raise his spirits. Meanwhile, Yoshino desperately attempts to kill Kariya, but is killed in turn, enabling Kariya to create the bitto. The bitto capture and concentrate living human souls for the Bount, enabling them to increase their power. Bounts engage Ichigo, his friends, and Shinigami reinforcements all over Karakura Town. After a series of difficult battles, the Bounts retreat to a cave, where they have constructed a gate to enter Soul Society. The Bount Ugaki slows down the Shinigami pursuers, but he is defeated by Renji's bankai.
Elsewhere, Uryū is confronted by Shinigami lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi, who gives Uryū a battle accessory to restore his lost powers. Ichigo then comes upon the Bount and fights Kariya once more. He is easily defeated, but after activating his bankai, he is able to fight Kariya evenly. Finally, Uryū arrives and shoots an arrow into a gate the Bount have created, allowing them to enter Soul Society, but for a good reason.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "New School Term, Renji has Come to the Material World?!"
"Shingakki, gense ni Renji ga yatte kita!?" (新学期、現世に恋次がやって来た！？) | January 17, 2006 | May 18, 2008 |
| "Creeping Terror, the Second Victim"
"Shinobi yoru kyōfu, nibanme no giseisha" (忍び寄る恐怖、２番目の犠牲者) | January 24, 2006 | May 25, 2008 |
| "Break Through! The Trap Hidden in the Labyrinth"
"Toppa seyo! Meikyū ni hisomu wana" (突破せよ！迷宮に潜む罠) | January 31, 2006 | June 1, 2008 |
| "Death Game! The Missing Classmate"
"Shi no gēmu! Kieru kurasumeito" (死のゲーム！消えるクラスメイト) | February 7, 2006 | June 8, 2008 |
| "True Identity of the Devil, the Secret which is Revealed"
"Akuma no shōtai, akasareta himitsu" (悪魔の正体、明かされた秘密) | February 14, 2006[3] | June 15, 2008 |
| "Bount! The Ones Who Hunt Souls"
"Baunto! Tamashī o karu mono tachi" (バウント！魂を狩る者たち) | February 14, 2006[3] | June 22, 2008 |
| "Rukia's Return! Revival of the Substitute Team!"
"Rukia no kikan! Daikō chīmu fukkatsu" (ルキアの帰還！代行チーム復活) | February 21, 2006 | June 29, 2008 |
| "The Moment of Collision! An Evil Hand Draws Near to the Quincy"
"Gekitotsu no toki! Kuinshī ni semaru ma no te" (激突の時！クインシーに迫る魔の手) | March 7, 2006 | July 6, 2008 |
| "Water Attack! Escape from the Shutdown Hospital"
"Mizu no kōgeki! Tozasareta byōin kara no dasshutsu" (水の攻撃！閉ざされた病院からの脱出) | March 14, 2006 | July 13, 2008 |
| "Gathering at the Place of Fortune! The Man Who Makes His Move"
"Ba un to shūketsu! Ugoki dasu otoko" (場運と集結！動き出す男) | March 28, 2006[4] | July 20, 2008 |
| "Memories of an Eternally Living Clan"
"Eien o ikiru ichizoku no kioku" (永遠を生きる一族の記憶) | March 28, 2006[4] | July 27, 2008 |
| "Earth-Shattering Event at 11th Squad! The Shinigami who Rises Again"
"Jūichibantai gekishin! Yomigaetta Shinigami" (十一番隊激震！よみがえった死神) | April 4, 2006[5] | August 3, 2008 |
| "Crashing force! Furido vs. Zangetsu"
"Chikara no gekitotsu! Furīdo vs Zangetsu" (力の激突！フリードＶＳ斬月) | April 4, 2006[5] | August 10, 2008 |
| "Unfading Grudge! The Shinigami whom Kenpachi Killed"
"Kienu onnen! Kenpachi ga kitta Shinigami" (消えぬ怨念！剣八が斬った死神) | April 11, 2006 | August 24, 2008 |
| "Shocking Revelations for the 13 Divisions! The Truth Buried in History"
"Gotei jūsantai kyōgaku!! Rekishi ni uzumoreta shinjitsu" (護廷十三隊驚愕！！ 歴史に埋もれた真実) | May 2, 2006 | August 31, 2008 |
| "Yoshino's Decision of Death"
"Yoshino, shi o kaketa omoi" (芳野、死をかけた想い) | May 9, 2006 | September 7, 2008 |
| "Assault From a Formidable Enemy! A Tiny Final Line of Defense?!"
"Kyōteki no kyūshū! Chiisana saishū bōei sen!?" (強敵の急襲！小さな最終防衛線！？) | May 16, 2006 | September 13, 2008 |
| "Hitsugaya Moves! The Attacked City"
"Hitsugaya ugoku! Osowareta machi" (日番谷動く！襲われた街) | May 23, 2006 | September 20, 2008 |
| "Ichigo vs. Dalk! Appearance of the Faded Darkness"
"Ichigo VS Daruku! Shirakigami no shutsugen" (一護ＶＳダルク！白き闇の出現) | May 30, 2006 | October 4, 2008 |
| "Grey Shadow, the Secret of the Dolls"
"Haiiro no kage, dōru no himitsu" (灰色の影、ドールの秘密) | June 6, 2006 | October 11, 2008 |
| "Dissension in the Substitute Team? Rukia's Betrayal"
"Daikō chīmu bunretsu? Uragitta Rukia" (代行チーム分裂？裏切ったルキア) | June 13, 2006[6] | October 18, 2008 |
| "Deadly Battle of Tears! Rukia vs. Orihime"
"Namida no shitō! Rukia VS Orihime" (涙の死闘！ルキアＶＳ織姫) | June 13, 2006[6] | October 25, 2008 |
| "Rangiku, dances! Slice the invisible enemy!"
"Rangiku, mau! Mienai teki o kire!" (乱菊舞う！見えない敵を斬れ) | June 20, 2006 | November 1, 2008 |
| "Byakuya is summoned! The Gotei 13 start to move!"
"Byakuya shōshū! Ugokidasu gotei 13" (白哉召集！動き出す護廷十三隊) | July 4, 2006 | November 8, 2008 |
| "Annihilation of the Lieutenants!? Trap in the Underground Cave"
"Fukutaichō zenmetsu!? Chikadōkutsu no wana" (副隊長全滅！？地下洞窟の罠) | July 11, 2006 | November 15, 2008 |
| "Rematch?! Ishida vs. Nemu"
"Saisen!? Ishida VS Nemu" (再戦！？石田ＶＳネム) | July 18, 2006 | November 22, 2008 |
| "Renji Abarai, bankai of the Soul!"
"Abarai Renji, tamashii no bankai!" (阿散井恋次、魂の卍解！) | July 25, 2006 | November 29, 2008 |
| "Shinigami and Quincy, the Reviving Power"
"Shinigami to kuinshī, yomigaeru chikara" (死神とクインシー、よみがえる力) | August 1, 2006 | December 6, 2008 |
Bount Assault on Soul Society arc
This anime-only story arc was created to allow Tite Kubo to publish more material. It has eighteen episodes, and aired from August 2006 to January 2007 and the US from December 2008 to April 2009.
This arc goes through the numerous attacks on Soul Society, all centered around the Bount. They are not easily defeated though, because of their ability to absorb the spirit particles Soul Society is made up of to heal their wounds. In the end, a fierce battle between Kariya and Ichigo takes place. Kariya loses the battle and disintegrates. But he is not the last Bount alive. Gō Koga apologizes for the Bount's actions and remains with Ran'Tao. The last episode focuses on the groups reminiscing of their lives before they met each other.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Invasion of the Shinigami World, Again"
"Shinigami sekai e no totsunyū, futatabi" (死神世界への突入、再び) | August 8, 2006 | December 13, 2008 |
| "The Bount Assault! The Gotei 13 of Destructive Earthquake"
"Baunto kyōshū! Gekishin no gotei jūsantai" (バウンド強襲！激震の護廷十三隊) | August 15, 2006 | December 20, 2008 |
| "Hitsugaya's Decision! The Clash Approaches"
"Hitsugaya no ketsui! Gekitotsu no tokisemaru" (日番谷の決意！激突の時迫る) | August 22, 2006 | December 27, 2008 |
| "Byakuya Takes the Field! Dance of the Wind-Splitting Cherry Blossoms"
"Byakuya shutsujin! Kaze o saku sakura no mai" (白哉出陣！風を裂く桜の舞) | September 5, 2006 | January 3, 2009 |
| "Ichigo・Byakuya・Kariya, The Battle of the Three Extremes!"
"Ichigo・Byakuya・Kariya, sankyoku no tatakai!" (一護・白哉・狩矢、三極の戦い !) | September 12, 2006 | January 10, 2009 |
| "Hitsugaya Strikes! Slice the Enemy in the Middle of the Forest"
"Hitsugaya Shutsugeki! Mori no naka no teki o kire!" (日番谷出撃！森の中の敵を斬れ) | September 19, 2006 | January 17, 2009 |
| "Clash! Kenpachi Zaraki vs. Maki Ichinose"
"Gekitotsu! Zaraki Kenpachi VS Ichinose Maki" (激突！更木剣八VS一之瀬真樹) | October 4, 2006 | January 24, 2009 |
| "Shinigami Vs. Shinigami! The Uncontrollable Power"
"Shinigami VS Shinigami! Bōsō suru chikara" (死神VS死神！暴走する力) | October 11, 2006 | January 31, 2009 |
| "Soifon Dies? The Last of the Special Forces"
"Soifon shisu? Onmitsukidō no saigo" (砕蜂死す？隠密機動の最後) | October 18, 2006 | February 07, 2009 |
| "Mayuri's bankai!! Sawatari・Clash of the Demon"
"Mayuri bankai!! Sawatari・Akuma no gekitotsu" (マユリ卍解!!沢渡・悪魔の激突) | November 1, 2006 | February 14, 2009 |
| "The Last Quincy! The Exploding Power"
"Saigo no kuinshī! Bōhatsu suru chikara" (最後のクインシー！暴発する力) | November 8, 2006 | February 21, 2009 |
| "Ishida, exceeding the limits to attack!"
"Ishida, genkai o koete ute!" (石田、限界を超えて撃て！) | November 15, 2006 | February 28, 2009 |
| "10th Division's Death Struggle! The Release of Hyōrinmaru"
"Shitō jū ban tai! Hyōrinmaru o hanate" (死闘十番隊！氷輪丸を放て) | November 22, 2006 | March 07, 2009 |
| "Kariya! Countdown to the Detonation"
"Kariya! Bakuhatsu e no kauntodaun" (狩矢！爆発へのカウントダウン) | November 29, 2006 | March 14, 2009 |
| "Life and Revenge! Ishida, the Ultimate Choice"
"Inochi to fukushū! Ishida, kyūkyoku no sentaku" (命と復讐！石田、究極の選択) | December 6, 2006 | March 21, 2009 |
| "The Swung-Down Edge! The Moment of Ruin"
"Furiorosareta ha! Hametsu no shunka" (振り下ろされた刃！破滅の瞬間) | December 13, 2006 | March 28, 2009 |
| "The Wailing Bount! The Last Clash"
"Dōkoku no baunto! Saigo no gekitotsu" (慟哭のバウント！最後の激突) | December 20, 2006 | April 4, 2009 |
| "Ichigo and Rukia, Thoughts in the Revolving Sky"
"Ichigo to Rukia, kaiten suru omoi" (一護とルキア、廻天する想い) | January 4, 2007 | April 11, 2009 |
The Arrancar arc
Main article: The Arrancar Saga
This 34 episode arc returns mostly to the plot of the manga. It was aired in Japan from January 2007 to October 2007. US air date from April 2009 to August 2009 since two episodes from this arc are showing every night presumably to help close the gap between the US and Japanese broadcasts.
This arc starts off with Shinji Hirako introduced as a transfer student in Ichigo's school, but his true motive is to recruit Ichigo into the Vizard, a group of Shinigami who have gained Hollow powers. Meanwhile, Kon (inhabiting Ichigo's body) is attacked by Grand Fisher and Uryū is attacked by another imperfect Arrancar. Uryū is saved by his father, Ryūken Ishida, while Kon is saved by Isshin Kurosaki, who has regained his Shinigami powers. Soon after that, two Arrancar, Yammy and Ulquiorra Cifer, appear at Karakura Town. Yammy begins draining all of the surrounding souls. Only Tatsuki Arisawa survives. When Chad and Orihime interfere, Yammy injures them gravely, but Ichigo arrives in time to protect them. Upon confronting the Arrancar, his inner Hollow demands that Ichigo switches with him, sinisterly stating that he would be able to finish them off with ease. Ichigo however, denies his request, causing his inner Hollow to interfere. His inner Hollow prevents him from being able to fight and he is severely beaten until Kisuke Urahara and Yoruichi Shihōin arrive to rescue them.
Hitsugaya's team is later dispatched to patrol Karakura Town. The team consists of Renji Abarai, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, Rangiku Matsumoto, Ikkaku Madarame, Yumichika Ayasegawa and Rukia Kuchiki, all of whom are posing as new students at Ichigo's school. When Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez and his Arrancar attack, they each fight their own separate battles. Ikkaku reveals a surprise bankai to defeat his opponent while Hitsugaya's squad have difficulty battling the Arrancar and are on the verge of defeat before Soul Society allows them to remove their limiters. While this occurs, Ichigo is fighting a losing battle against Grimmjow. After being severely beaten, he manages to launch a devastating Getsuga Tenshō blast that scars Grimmjow. The battle is then abruptly ended by Kaname Tōsen who orders Grimmjow to return to Hueco Mundo for violating orders. After this, Ichigo realizes he can no longer fight adequately with his inner Hollow constantly seeking to take control of him and he goes to train with the Vizard. Meanwhile, Hitsugaya's team fend off various Arrancar and Hollows, while Rukia and Orihime go to Soul Society to train.
After defeating his inner Hollow, Ichigo continues to train with the Vizard to increase his mask usage time. Yumichika and Rangiku attempt to learn their bankai, but are interrupted by four Arrancar (Yammy, Luppi, Grimmjow and Wonderwice Margera) who are ordered to distract the Shinigami team. In Soul Society, Rukia decides to go back first, while Orihime requires a special gate. Ichigo fights Grimmjow with his newly acquired Hollow mask transformation, but when his mask breaks, Grimmjow gains the upper hand; however, he is subsequently fended off by Rukia and Shinji. When Orihime goes through the gate, her guards are attacked by Ulquiorra and he demands that she follows him back to Hueco Mundo. She agrees, as Ulquiorra threatened to kill her friends if she responded otherwise. The battle is ended by Ulquiorra, and Orihime is brought to Hueco Mundo after she bids Ichigo goodbye.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Reopening of the Substitute Business! The Terrifying Transfer Student"
"Daikōgyō saikai! Kyōfu no tenkōsei" (代行業再開！恐怖の転校生) | January 10, 2007 | April 18, 2009 |
| "Shock! The True Characters of the Fathers"
"Kyōgaku! Oyajitachi no shōtai" (驚愕！親父達の正体) | January 17, 2007 | April 18, 2009 |
| "The Commencement of War, Vizard and Arrancar"
"Tatakai no hajimari, vaizādo to arankaru" (戦いの始まり、仮面の軍勢と破面) | January 24, 2007 | May 2, 2009 |
| "Prelude to the Apocalypse, The Arrancar's Attack"
"Sekai hōkai e no jokyoku, arankaru shūrai" (世界崩壊への序曲、アランカル襲来！) | January 31, 2007 | May 2, 2009 |
| "Reunion, Ichigo and Rukia and Shinigami"
"Saikai, Ichigo to Rukia to Shinigami tachi" (再会、一護とルキアと死神たち) | February 7, 2007 | May 9, 2009 |
| "Mission! The Shinigami Have Come"
"Tokumei! Yatte kita Shinigamitachi" (特命！やってきた死神たち) | February 14, 2007 | May 9, 2009 |
| "The Evil Eye, Aizen Again"
"Ashiki hitomi, Aizen futatabi" (悪しき瞳、藍染再び) | February 21, 2007 | May 16, 2009 |
| "Rukia's Battle Commences! The Freezing White Blade"
"Rukia sentō kaishi! Kōritsuku shiroi yaiba" (ルキア戦闘開始！凍りつく白い刃) | February 28, 2007 | May 16, 2009 |
| "Ikkaku's bankai! The Power that Breaks Everything"
"Ikkaku bankai! Subete o kudaku chikara" (一角卍解！全てを砕く力) | March 7, 2007 | May 23, 2009 |
| "Zaraki Division's Secret Story! The Lucky Men"
"Zaraki tai hiwa! Tsuite iru otokotachi" (更木隊秘話！ツイている男たち) | March 21, 2007 | May 23, 2009 |
| "Hitsugaya Scatters! The Broken Hyōrinmaru"
"Hitsugaya chiru! Kudaketa Hyōrinmaru" (日番谷散る！砕けた氷輪丸) | March 28, 2007 | May 30, 2009 |
| "Clash! The Person Who Protects vs. The Person Who Suffers"
"Gekitotsu! Mamoru mono VS kōmuru mono" (激突！護る者VS被る者) | April 11, 2007 | May 30, 2009 |
| "Vizard! The Power of the Awakened"
"Vaizādo! Mezameshi monotachi no chikara" (ヴァイザード！目覚めし者たちの力) | April 18, 2007 | June 6, 2009 |
| "Ichigo, complete Hollowification!?"
"Ichigo, kanzen horō-ka!?" (一護、完全ホロウ化!?) | April 25, 2007 | June 6, 2009 |
| "Collision! Black bankai and white bankai"
"Gekitotsu! Kuroi bankai to shiroi bankai" (激突！黒い卍解と白い卍解) | May 2, 2007 | June 13, 2009 |
| "Urgent Report! Aizen's Terrifying Plan!"
"Kinkyū hōkoku! Aizen no osorubeki keikaku!" (緊急報告！藍染の恐るべき計画) | May 9, 2007 | June 13, 2009 |
| "Uryū vs. Ryūken! Clash of the parent-child Quincies"
"Uryū VS Ryūken! Gekitotsu kuinshī oyako" (雨竜VS竜弦！激突クインシー親子) | May 16, 2007 | June 20, 2009 |
| "Urahara's Decision, Orihime's Thoughts"
"Urahara no ketsudan, Orihime no omoi" (浦原の決断、織姫の想い) | May 30, 2007 | June 20, 2009 |
| "The Nightmare Arrancar! Team Hitsugaya Moves Out"
"Akumu no arankaru! Hitsugayatai shutsugeki" (悪夢のアランカル！日番谷隊出撃) | June 6, 2007 | June 27, 2009 |
| "The Swooping Descent of the Dark Emissary! The Propagation of Malice"
"Maiorita yami no shisha! Zōshoku suru akui" (舞い降りた闇の使者！増殖する悪意) | June 13, 2007 | June 27, 2009 |
| "The Invisible Enemy! Hitsugaya's Merciless Decision"
"Mienai teki! Hitsugaya, hijō na ketsudan" (見えない敵！日番谷、非情な決断) | June 20, 2007 | July 4, 2009 |
| "Rangiku's Tears, the Sorrowful Parting of Brother and Sister"
"Rangiku no namida, kanashiki kyōdai no wakare" (乱菊の涙、哀しき兄妹の別れ) | June 27, 2007 | July 4, 2009 |
| "Hitsugaya, Karin and Soccer Ball"
"Hitsugaya to Karin to sakkābōru" (日番谷と夏梨とサッカーボール) | July 4, 2007 | July 11, 2009 |
| "Ikkaku's Hot-Blooded Kendo Tale"
"Ikkaku, nekketsu kendō monogatari" (一角、熱血剣道物語) | July 11, 2007 | July 11, 2009 |
| "The Beautiful Patissier, Yumichika!"
"Utsukushiki patishie, Yumichika!" (美しきパティシエ、弓親！) | July 18, 2007 | July 18, 2009 |
| "Kon is Deceived! Rangiku on the Lookout.."
"Hakarareta Kon! Rangiku wa mite ita" (はかられた、コン！乱菊は見ていた・・) | July 25, 2007 | July 18, 2009 |
| "Hueco Mundo civil war! Ulquiorra's death"
"Weko Mundo nairan! Urukiora no shi" (ウェコムンド内乱！ウルキオラの死) | August 8, 2007 | July 25, 2009 |
| "Battle of bad faith, Aizen's trap"
"Akui no tatakai, Aizen no wana" (悪意の戦い、藍染の罠) | August 22, 2007 | July 25, 2009 |
| "Second move of Hueco Mundo! Hitsugaya vs Yammy"
"Weko Mundo saidō! Hitsugaya vs Yamī" (ウェコムンド再動!日番谷vsヤミー) | August 29, 2007 | August 1, 2009 |
| "Ichigo vs Grimmjow, 11 second battle!"
"Ichigo vs Gurimujō, 11 byō no tatakai!" (一護vsグリムジョー、 11秒の戦い) | September 5, 2007 | August 1, 2009 |
| "Ulquiorra's Scheme, the Moment when the Sun Sets!"
"Sakubō no Urukiora, taiyō ga shizumu toki" (策謀のウルキオラ、太陽が沈む時) | September 12, 2007 | August 8, 2009 |
| "Goodbye..., Kurosaki-kun"
"Sayonara..., Kurosaki-kun" (さよなら…、黒崎くん) | September 19, 2007 | August 8, 2009 |
| "Order! Forbid rescue of Orihime Inoue"
"Genmei! Inoue Orihime no kyujutsu o kinzu" (厳命！井上織姫ノ救出ヲ禁ズ) | September 26, 2007 | August 15, 2009 |
| "Grimmjow Revived"
"Fukkatsu no Gurimujō" (復活のグリムジョー) | October 3, 2007 | August 15, 2009 |
The Hueco Mundo arc
This story arc is twenty-three episodes long and aired between October 2007 and April 2008 in Japan.
The first three episodes cover Ichigo and his friends' entry into Hueco Mundo, followed by a three-episode anime-only arc - "Forest of the Menos" - then their entry to Las Noches. After breaking in, Ichigo's group find themselves at a five-way fork. After vowing to stay alive and return, they split up and take one path each. Ichigo and Nel encounter the Privaron Espada Dordonii Alessandro Del Socacchio, where Ichigo engages in battle with him. At first, Ichigo is proving no match for Dordonii because he does not wish to use his bankai. After Dordonii continually pesters Ichigo and attacks Nel, Ichigo is forced to use his bankai and Hollow mask to defeat him.
Meanwhile, other members of the group are having their own battles. Uryū fights with the Arrancar Cirucci Thunderwitch and defeats her using his energy sword, Seele Schneider. Rukia runs into the Espada Aaroniero Arruruerie, who after removing his mask reveals the face of the deceased Shinigami Kaien Shiba. After initially believing to be the real Kaien Shiba, Rukia exposes him as an imposter and the two do battle. Overwhelmed by Aaroniero's released form, Rukia is impaled through the stomach. She flashes back to her training with Kaien and regains her resolve. She uses her zanpakutō's third dance to impale the Aaroniero through his upper skull. As Aaroniero dies, she compares Orihime's current situation to her own when she was a prisoner in Soul Society. Though she attempts to keep moving, her injuries get the better of her and she collapses.
Elsewhere, Chad is fighting with Gantenbainne Mosqueda, whom he is unable to harm. After many damaging blows, Chad realizes how to access his full power, transforming his arm into a giant shield, Brazo Derecha del Gigante. When Gantenbainne releases his zanpakutō to match up, Chad reveals that his right arm is only meant to defend. His left arm, meant for attack, is known as Brazo Izquierda del Diablo. With his newly awakened powers, Chad easily defeats him. However, his victory is short-lived as Espada Nnoitra Jiruga arrives at the scene and disables Chad with a single attack.
Renji and Dondochakka run into Szayel Aporro Granz. Renji attempts to use his bankai, but it shatters almost instantly. Szayel Aporro explains to Renji that the room they are in has nullified his bankai. He reveals that he gathered the data using parasites stored in the body of his older brother, Yylfordt Granz. With only his shikai, Renji is proved no match for Szayel. Just then, Uryū steps in to assist Renji in the battle. However, Uryū finds that Szayel Aporro expected his arrival, and his attacks are useless against both the Espada and his minions. With Renji's help, Uryū maneuvers Szayel into a trap, catching him in a massive explosion. Though the trap is very damaging, it fails to kill him. Szayel then completely heals himself by eating one of his subordinates. However, rather than retaliate, he leaves, wanting to replace his damaged clothing and allow Renji and Uryū to formulate a new plan.
Meanwhile, Ulquiorra appears before Ichigo to inform him of Rukia's death. Ichigo says she’s still alive and attempts to leave, but Ulquiorra goads him into fighting by revealing that it was he who forced Orihime to Hueco Mundo. Ichigo decides to end the fight quickly by using his bankai and Hollow mask. Even after using his most powerful attacks, Ichigo proves to be no match for Ulquiorra. Ichigo, however, refuses to give up, believing Ulquiorra to be the top-ranked Espada. Ulquiorra reveals his "4" tattoo, proving otherwise, and stabs Ichigo in the chest with his hand. Later, Grimmjow brings Orihime to Ichigo, wanting him healed so he may have his own fight with him. Before she can finish her work, however, Ulquiorra arrives. Using a special device called Caja Negación, Grimmjow traps Ulquiorra in an alternate dimension which will take him several hours to escape. Once Ichigo is healed, their battle begins.
Ichigo, using his bankai and Hollow mask, and Grimmjow, now in his resurrección form, face off in a destructive battle across Las Noches while Orihime and Nel look on. Ichigo is slowly beaten back by Grimmjow, despite managing to maintain his Hollow mask for much longer than he previously could. Orihime is scared to watch, seeing the same look in his eyes as her brother had when he became a Hollow. At Nel's insistence, she overcomes her fear and cheers Ichigo on. Ichigo summons the last of his strength, swearing that he will defeat Grimmjow, Ulquiorra, Aizen, and bring back all of his friends safely, and launches the finishing blow to Grimmjow. Ichigo returns to Orihime, who is glad to see that he is not really a Hollow as she feared. Nel clumsily jumps into Ichigo, overcome with tears that he is all right. The series moves into another anime-only arc at this point.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Ishida・Chad, the Quickening of a New Power"
"Ishida・Chado, atarashiki chikara no taidō" (石田・チャド、新しき力の胎動) | October 17, 2007 | August 22, 2009 |
| "The Espada Gather! Aizen's Royal Assembly"
"Esupāda shūketsu! Aizen no gozen kaigi" (エスパーダ集結！藍染の御前会議) | October 24, 2007 | August 22, 2009 |
| "Her Name is Nel! The Appearance of the Strange Arrancar"
"Sono na wa Neru! Fushigi na arankaru tōjō" (その名はネル！不思議なアランカル登場) | October 31, 2007 | August 29, 2009 |
| "Forest of Menos! The Search for the Missing Rukia"
"Menosu no mori! Kieta Rukia o sagase" (メノスの森！ 消えたルキアを探せ) | November 7, 2007 | September 12, 2009 |
| "Ashido, the Shinigami Who Came from the Past"
"Ashido, kako kara kita Shinigami" (アシド、過去から来た死神) | November 14, 2007 | September 12, 2009 |
| "Through the Crumbling Forest, a Million Menos"
"Kuzureyuku mori, hyakuman no Menosu" (崩れ行く森、百万のメノス) | November 21, 2007 | September 19, 2009 |
| "Oath! Back Here Alive Again"
"Chikai! Futatabi ikite kono basho e" (誓い！再び生きてこの場所へ) | November 28, 2007 | September 19, 2009 |
| "The Raging Storm! Encounter with the Dancing Arrancar"
"Fukiareru bōfū! Odoru arankaru to no sōgū" (吹き荒れる暴風！踊るアランカルとの遭遇) | December 5, 2007 | September 26, 2009 |
| "Ichigo Strikes Back! This is my Bankai"
"Ichigo hangeki! Koitsu ga ore no bankai da" (一護反撃！こいつが俺の卍解だ) | December 12, 2007 | September 26, 2009 |
| "The Devilish Research! Szayel Aporro's Plan"
"Akuma no kenkyū! Zaeruaporo no takurami" (悪魔の研究！ザエルアポロの企み) | December 19, 2007 | October 3, 2009 |
| "Rukia and Kaien, the Sorrowful Reunion"
"Rukia to Kaien, kanashimi no saikai" (ルキアと海燕、哀しみの再会) | December 26, 2007 | October 3, 2009 |
| "Rukia Retaliates! Release the Desperate Kidō"
"Rukia hangeki! Kesshi no kidō o hanate" (ルキア反撃！決死の鬼道を放て) | January 9, 2008 | October 10, 2009 |
| "Ishida & Pesche, the United Attack of Friendship?"
"Ishida & Pesshe, yūjō no gattai kōgeki" (石田＆ペッシェ、友情の合体攻撃？) | January 16, 2008 | October 10, 2009 |
| "Ishida's Trump Card, the Cutter of Souls"
"Ishida no kirifuda, tamashī o kirisaku mono" (石田の切り札、魂を切り裂くもの) | January 23, 2008 | October 17, 2009 |
| "Right Arm of the Giant, Left Arm of the Devil"
"Kyojin no uwan, akuma no sawan" (巨人の右腕、悪魔の左腕) | January 30, 2008 | October 17, 2009 |
| "Yasutora Sado dies! Orihime's Tears"
"Sado Yasutora shisu! Orihime no namida" (茶渡泰虎死す！織姫の涙) | February 6, 2008 | October 24, 2009 |
| "Testament, Your Heart is Right Here..."
"Yuigon, kokoro wa koko ni" (遺言、心は此処に・・・) | February 13, 2008 | October 24, 2009 |
| "The Cruel Arrancar, Ulquiorra's Provocation"
"Zankoku na arankaru, Urukiora no chōhatsu" (残酷な破面、ウルキオラの挑発) | February 20, 2008 | October 31, 2009 |
| "Szayel Aporro Laughs, The Net Trapping Renji is Complete"
"Warau Zaeruaporo, Renji hōi ami kansei" (笑うザエルアポロ、恋次包囲網完成) | February 27, 2008 | October 31, 2009 |
| "Shinigami and Quincy, the Battle of Madness"
"Shinigami to kuinshī, kyōki to no tatakai" (死神とクインシー、狂気との戦い) | March 5, 2008 | November 7, 2009 |
| "Ishida's Strategy, the 20-second Offense and Defense"
"Ishida no sakusen, Nijū byō no kōbō" (石田の作戦、２０秒の攻防) | March 12, 2008 | November 7, 2009 |
| "Murderous Intent! The Joyful Grimmjow"
"Satsui futtō! Kanki no Gurimujō" (殺意沸騰！歓喜のグリムジョー) | March 19, 2008 | November 14, 2009 |
| "Desperate Effort vs. Desperate Effort! The Hollowized Ichigo"
"Shiryoku vs. shiryoku! Horōkashita Ichigo" (死力ＶＳ死力！ホロウ化した一護) | April 9, 2008 | November 14, 2009 |
| "The Moment of Conclusion, the End of Grimmjow"
"Kecchaku no toki, Gurimujō no saigo" (決着の時、グリムジョーの最後) | April 16, 2008 | November 21, 2009 |
The New Captain Shūsuke Amagai arc
Starting from episode 168, the Hueco Mundo arc diverts to an anime-only arc in order to allow Tite Kubo time to publish more material. It contains twenty-two episodes, and aired in Japan from April 2008 to October 2008. It is a side story focusing on the new captain, Shūsuke Amagai, who takes the empty position as captain of the 3rd Division of the Gotei 13. Meanwhile, three new characters—Princess Rurichiyo Kasumiōji and her two Shinigami guardians, Kenryū and Enryū—arrive in the real world and become Ichigo's new neighbors and classmates. Ichigo and Rukia Kuchiki get involved in their problems, suddenly faced with protecting the princess from assassins wielding strange energy-sapping swords with great power. The princess gets kidnapped and Ichigo becomes hunted by the 2nd Division while trying to break up Rurichiyo's marriage. Rukia manages to break up a battle between Soifon and Ichigo, leaving Soifon behind a wall of ice. Amagai and the 3rd Division confront Ichigo, but Amagai joins Ichigo and Rukia after becoming aware of the real reason why they kidnapped Rurichiyo's groom-to-be. Kira discovers Kibune is actually working for Komui, the man planning on stealing Rurichiyo's kingdom. Kira barely manages to defeat Kibune, and Renji takes Kibune's infested weapon to Yamamoto-Genryūsai. The Gotei 13 steadily become aware of corruption in the House of Kasumiōji and infiltrate the manor. Ichigo and Rukia reach the House of Kasumiōji while Amagai fights Hitsugaya. Rukia leaves the team to distract Rangiku. Ichigo catches up to Komui, but a smirking Amagai appears, slays Komui, kidnaps Rurichiyo, and reappears behind Yamamoto-Genryūsai. It is then revealed that Amagai has been the true puppet master behind all the events of the arc (on realising this, Captain Hitsugaya remarks that Amagai has "made the Gotei 13 look like fools") It becomes apparent that he seeks to murder Yamamoto-Genryūsai to avenge the death of his father, a Shinigami killed by Yamamoto.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "The New Captain Appears! His Name is Shūsuke Amagai"
"Shin taichō tōjō! Sono na wa Amagai Shūsuke" (新隊長登場！その名は天貝繍助) | April 23, 2008 | |
| "New Development, the Dangerous Transfer Student Appears!"
"Shin tenkai, kiken na tenkōsei arawaru!" (新展開､危険な転校生現る！) | May 7, 2008 | |
| "Desperate Struggle Under the Moonlit Night, the Mysterious Assassin and Zanpakutō"
"Tsukiyo no shitou, nazo no shikaku to zanpakutō" (月夜の死闘、謎の刺客と斬魄刀) | May 14, 2008 | |
| "The Profusion of Blooming Crimson Flowers"
"Sakimidareru beni no hana" (咲き乱れる紅の華) | May 21, 2008 | |
| "Kibune, going to war!"
"Kibune, shutsujin!" (貴船、出陣！) | May 28, 2008 | |
| "The Appearance of the Great Evil! The Darkness in the House of Kasumiōji"
"Kyoaku no tōjō! Kasumiōji ka no yami" (巨悪の登場！霞大路家の闇) | June 4, 2008 | |
| "Break the Mirror's Boundary! Ichigo's Captivity"
"Kagami no kyōkai o yabure! Toraware no Ichigo" (鏡の境界を破れ！捕らわれの一護) | June 11, 2008 | |
| "The Revenging Assassin, Ichigo is Targeted"
"Fukushū no shikaku, nerawareta Ichigo" (復讐の刺客、狙われた一護) | June 18, 2008 | |
| "Mystery! The Sword-Consuming Assassin"
"Kaiki! Katana o kū ansatsusha" (怪奇！刀を喰う暗殺者) | June 25, 2008 | |
| "The Reversal of Rukia, the Rampaging Blade"
"Gyakuten no Rukia! Bōsōsuru katana" (逆転のルキア、暴走する刀) | June 25, 2008 | |
| "The Nightmare Which is Shown, Ichigo's Inside the Mirror"
"Miserareta akumu, kagami no naka no Ichigo" (見せられた悪夢、 鏡の中の一護) | July 2, 2008 | |
| "Confrontation?! Amagai vs. Gotei 13"
"Tairitsu!? Amagai VS Gotei jūsan tai" (対立！？ 天貝VS護廷十三隊) | July 9, 2008 | |
| "The Princess' Decision, the Sorrowful Bride"
"Hime no ketsui, kanashiki hanayome" (姫の決意、哀しき花嫁) | July 16, 2008 | |
| "The 2nd Division Sorties! Ichigo is Surrounded"
"Ni ban tai shutsugeki! Houi sareta Ichigo" (二番隊出撃！包囲された一護) | July 23, 2008 | |
| "Amagai's True Strength, zanpakutō is released!"
"Amagai no jitsuryoku, zanpakutō kaihou!" (天貝(あまがい)の実力、斬魄刀(ざんぱきとう)解放！) | July 30, 2008 | |
| "The Darkness Which Moves! Kibune's True Colors"
"Ugokidashita yami! Kibune no shōtai" (動き出した闇！貴船(きぶね)の正体) | August 6, 2008 | |
| "Kira and Kibune, Offense and Defense of 3rd Division"
"Kira to Kibune, sanbantai no kōbō" (吉良と貴船、三番隊の攻防) | August 20, 2008 | |
| "Ice and Flame! Fierce Fight of Amagai vs. Hitsugaya"
"Kōri to honō! Amagai VS Hitsugaya no gekitō" (氷と炎！天貝VS日番谷の激闘 ) | August 27, 2008 | |
| "Sortie Orders! Suppress the House of Kasumiōji"
"Shutsugeki shirei! Kasumiōji ka o seiatsu seyo" (出撃指令！霞大路家を制圧せよ) | September 3, 2008 | |
| "Ichigo Rages! The Assassin's Secret"
"Ichigo gekido! Ansatsusha no himitsu" (一護激怒！暗殺者の秘密) | September 10, 2008 | |
| "Duel! Amagai vs. Ichigo"
"Kettou! Amagai VS Ichigo" (決闘！天貝ＶＳ一護) | September 17, 2008 | |
| "The Fallen Shinigami's Pride"
"Ochi ta Shinigami no hokori" (堕ちた死神の誇り) | October 7, 2008 |
The Hueco Mundo arc Part 2
The Hueco Mundo arc, Part 2 is the tenth and upcomming airing season of the Bleach anime series. The episodes are directed by Noriyuki Abe and produced by TV Tokyo, Dentsu, and Studio Pierrot.
Three pieces of theme music are used for the episodes: one opening theme and two closing themes. The opening theme is "Velonica" by Aqua Timez whilst the first ending song is "Hitorira no Hanabira" by Stereo Pony. The second ending song is "Sky Chord" by Tsuji Shion.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Hueco Mundo Chapter, Restart!"
"Weko Mundo hen, saikai!" (ウェコムンド編、再開！) | October 14, 2008 | |
| "The Frightening Banquet, Szayel Aporro Theater"
"Kyōen, Zaeruaporo gekijō" (恐宴, ザエルアポロ劇場) | October 21, 2008 | |
| "Nel's Secret, a Big-Breasted Beauty Joins the Battle!?"
"Neru no himitsu, kyonyū bijo sansen!?" (ネルの秘密, 巨乳美女参戦！？) | October 28, 2008 | |
| "Irresistible, Puppet Show of Terror"
"Teikō funō, kyōfu no ningyōgeki" (抵抗不能、恐怖の人形劇) | November 4, 2008 | |
| "Nelliel's Past"
"Nerieru no kako" (ネリエルの過去) | November 11, 2008 | |
| "Pesche's Seriousness"
"Pesshe no honki" (ペッシェの本気) | November 18, 2008 | |
| "Joining the Battle! The Strongest Shinigami Army Appears"
"Sanzen! Saikyō Shinigami gundan tōjō" (参戦！最強死神軍団登場) | November 25, 2008 | |
| "Byakuya's Bankai, the Quiet Anger"
"Byakuya bankai, shizukanaru ikari" (白哉卍解、静かなる怒り) | December 2, 2008 | |
| "The Two Scientists, Mayuri's Trap"
"Futari no kagakusha, Mayuri no wana" (２人の科学者、マユリの罠) | December 9, 2008 | |
| "Holy Birth, the Resurrected Szayel Aporro"
"Seitan, Yomigaeru Zaeruaporo" (聖誕、蘇るザエルアポロ) | December 16, 2008 | |
| "The Hardest Body!? Cut Down Nnoitra!"
Saikō no karada!? Noitora o kire" (最硬の体！?ノイトラを斬れ) | December 23, 2008 | |
| "Nnoitra Released! Multiplying Arms"
"Noitora kaihō! Zōshokushita ude" (ノイトラ解放！増殖した腕) | January 06, 2009 | |
| "Fierce Fighting Conclusion! Who's the Strongest?"
"Gekitō kecchaku! Saikyō wa dare da" (激闘決着！最強は誰だ) | January 13, 2009 | |
| "Karakura Town Gathers! Aizen Versus Shinigami"
"Karakura-chō ni shūketsu! Aizen tai Shinigami" (空座町に集結！藍染対死神) | January 20, 2009 | |
| "Ichigo's Stomach-cutting Persuasion Strategy"
"Ichigo no seppuku settoku sakusen" (一護の切腹説得作戦☆) | January 27, 2009 | |
| "Thump! The Football Tournament of Hollows"
"Doki! Horō darake no kemari taikai" (ドキ！虚だらけの蹴鞠大会) | February 3, 2009 | |
| "The Past Chapter Begins! The Truth from 110 Years Ago"
"Kako hen kaishi! 110 nen mae no shinjitsu" (過去編開始！１１０年前の真実) | February 10, 2009 | |
| "12th Division's New Captain, Urahara Kisuke"
"Juu ni ban tai shin taichou, Urahara Kisuke" (十二番隊新隊長、浦原喜助) | February 17, 2009 | |
| "Aizen and the Genius Boy"
"Aizen to tensai shounen" (藍染と天才少年) | February 24, 2009 | |
| "Muguruma's 9th Division, Moves Out"
"Muguruma Kyūbantai, shutsudōse yo" (六車九番隊、出動せよ) | March 3, 2009 | |
| "Hiyori dies? The Beginning of Tragedy"
"Hiyori shisu? Higeki no hajimari" (ひよ里死す？悲劇の始まり) | March 10, 2009 | |
| "Betrayal! Aizen's Secret Maneuvers"
"Uragiri! Anyaku no Aizen" (裏切り！暗躍の藍染) | March 17, 2009 | |
| "Rescue Hirako! Aizen vs. Urahara"
"Hirako wo sukue! Aizen VS Urahara" (平子を救え！藍染VS浦原) | March 24, 2009 | |
| "The Soul Burial Detective, Karakuraizer is Born"
"Konsō keiji Karakuraizā tanjō" (魂葬刑事カラクライザー誕生) | March 31, 2009 | |
| "Karakuraizer's Last Day"
"Karakuraizā saigo no hi" (カラクライザー最後の日) | April 7, 2009 |
The Fake Karakura Town Arc
The episodes of the eleventh season of the Bleach anime series are directed by Noriyuki Abe and produced by TV Tokyo, Dentsu, and Studio Pierrot. They are based on Tite Kubo's Bleach manga series.
The season has begun airing on April 14, 2009 in Japan on TV Tokyo. The English adaptation of the Bleach anime is licensed by Viz Media, which has yet to announce when the series will air.
The episodes use two pieces of theme music: one opening theme and one closing themes. The opening theme is "Shōjo S" by Scandal. The ending theme is "Kimi wo Mamotte, Kimi wo Aishite" by Sambomaster, used for episode 215 onwards.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Defend Karakura Town! Entire Appearance of the Shinigami"
"Karakura-chō o mamore! Shinigami sōtōjō" (空座町を護れ！死神総登場) | April 14, 2009 | |
| "Elite! The Four Shinigami"
"Seiei! Yonnin no Shinigami" (精鋭！四人の死神) | April 21, 2009 | |
| "Beautiful Little Devil Charlotte"
"Utsukushiki koakuma Sharurotte" (美しき小悪魔シャルロッテ) | April 28, 2009 | |
| "Kira, The Battle Within Despair"
"Kira, zetsubō no naka de no tatakai" (吉良、絶望の中での戦い) | May 5, 2009 | |
| "Hisagi's Shikai! The Name is..."
"Hisagi shikai! Sono na wa..." (檜佐木始解！その名は…) | May 12, 2009 | |
| "Ikkaku Falls! The Shinigami's Crisis"
"Ikkaku taoreru! Shinigami no kiki" (一角倒れる！死神の危機) | May 19, 2009 | |
| "The Full Showdown! Shinigami vs. Espada"
"Zenmen taiketsu! Shinigami VS Esupāda" (全面対決！死神VS十刃) | May 26, 2009 | |
| "The Most Evil Tag!? Soifon & Ōmaeda"
"Saikyō taggu!? Soifon & Ōmaeda" (最凶タッグ！？砕蜂＆大前田) | June 2, 2009 | |
| "A Miraculous Body! Ggio Releases"
"Kyōi no nikutai! Jio kaihō" (驚異の肉体！ジオ解放) | June 9, 2009 | |
| "3 vs. 1 Battle! Rangiku's Crisis"
"3 vs 1 no sentou! Pinchi no Rangiku" (３vs１の戦闘！ピンチの乱菊) | June 16, 2009 | |
| "All Lieutenants Annihilated! The Terrifying Demonic Beast"
"Fuku taichou zenmetsu! Kyoufu no yōjū" (副隊長全滅！恐怖の妖獣) | June 23, 2009 | |
| "Fierce Fighting Concludes? Towards a New Battle!"
"Gekitou shūketsu? Arata naru tatakai he!" (激闘終結？新たなる戦いへ！) | June 30, 2009 | |
| "Wonderful Error"
"Wandafuru erā" (ワンダフル·エラー) | July 7, 2009 | |
| "Summer! Sea! Swimsuit Festival!!"
"Natsu da! Umi da! Mizugi sai!!" (夏だ！海だ！水着祭！！) | July 14, 2009 | |
| "Cry of the Soul? The Rug Shinigami is Born!"
"Tamashii no sakebi? Zura Shinigami tanjou!" (魂の叫び？ヅラ死神誕生！) | July 21, 2009 |
Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc
Main article: Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc
The Zanpakutō Unknown Tales arc is an anime-only arc which was created to allow Tite Kubo to publish more material. It forms the twelfth season of Bleach and is directed by Noriyuki Abe and produced by TV Tokyo, Dentsu, and Studio Pierrot. The season began airing on July 28, 2009 in Japan on TV Tokyo. The English adaptation of the Bleach anime is licensed by Viz Media, which has yet to announce when the series will air.
The episodes use two pieces of theme music: two opening themes and two closing themes. The first opening theme is "Shōjo S" by Scandal from episode 230-242. The second opening theme is "Anima Rossa" by Porno Graffitti from episode 243 onwards. The first ending theme is "Mad Surfer" by Kenichi Asai used for episode 230-242. The second ending theme is "Sakurabito" by SunSet Swish from episode 243 onwards.
| # | Title | Original airdate | English airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| "A New Enemy! The Materialization of Zanpakutō"
"Arata naru teki! Zanpakutō jittai-ka" (新たなる敵！斬魄刀実体化) | July 28, 2009 | |
| "Byakuya, Disappearing with the Cherry Blossoms"
"Byakuya, sakura totomo ni shō yu" (白哉、桜と共に消ゆ) | August 4, 2009 | |
| "Sode no Shirayuki vs. Rukia! Confused Heart"
"Sode no Shirayuki VS Rukia! Kokoro no madoi" (袖白雪vsルキア！心の惑い) | August 11, 2009 | |
| "Zangetsu Becomes an Enemy"
"Teki to natta Zangetsu" (敵となった斬月) | August 18, 2009 | |
| "Renji Surprised?! The Two Zabimaru"
"Renji kyougaku!? Futari no Zabimaru" (恋次驚愕!? 2人の蛇尾丸) | August 25, 2009 | |
| "Clash! Hisagi vs. Kazeshini"
"Gekitotsu! Hisagi vs Kazeshini" (激突！檜佐木ＶＳ風死) | September 01, 2009 | |
| "Release! The New Getsuga Tenshō"
"Hanate! Arata naru Getsuga Tenshō" (放て！新たなる月牙天衝) | September 08, 2009 | |
| "Soifon, Surrounding the Zanpakutō"
"Soi Fon, zanpakutō o hōi seyo" (砕蜂、斬魄刀を包囲せよ) | September 15, 2009 | |
| "Friendship? Hatred? Haineko & Tobiume"
"Yūjō? Keno? Haineko & Tobiume" (友情？嫌悪？灰猫＆飛梅) | September 22, 2009 | |
| "The Awakening Hyōrinmaru! Hitsugaya's Fierce Fight"
"Mezameyo Hyōrinmaru! Hitsugaya gekitou" (目覚めよ氷輪丸！日番谷激闘) | September 29, 2009 | |
| "Byakuya's Betrayal"
"Uragiri no Byakuya" (裏切りの白哉) | October 06, 2009 | |
| "For the Sake of Pride! Byakuya vs. Renji"
"Hokori no tame ni! Byakuya VS Renji" (誇りのために！白哉VS恋次) | October 13, 2009 | |
| "Shinigami and Zanpakutō, Total Sortie"
"Shinigami & zanpakutō, sou shutsugeki" (死神＆斬魄刀、総出撃) | October 20, 2009 | |
| "One-on-one! Ichigo vs. Senbonzakura"
"Ikkiuchi! Ichigo VS Senbonzakura" (一騎打ち!一護VS千本桜) | October 27, 2009 | |
| "The long awaited... Kenpachi appears!"
"Man o jishite... kenpachi toujou!" (満を持して…剣八登場) | November 03, 2009 |
Specials
| OVA# | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | "BLEACH Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour: Memories in the Rain" |
This special, shown in Japan at the Jump Festa 2004 Anime Tour and later released on DVD, is a pilot episode for the show. As a different, one episode version of episodes 8-9, this special focuses more on Ichigo's feelings regarding his mother's death. Tite Kubo, the creator of Bleach, voices Kon in this special for only two lines instead of Mitsuaki Madono, the original seiyū of Kon. This special is around 30 minutes long.
| OVA# | Title |
|---|---|
| 2 | "BLEACH Jump Festa 2005 Anime Tour: The Sealed Sword Frenzy" |
This special, shown in Japan at the Jump Festa 2005 Anime Tour, is set after the events of the Soul Society arc (episode 63). Baishin, who was sealed by Soul Society long ago, is set free on Earth. A fateful encounter with Baishin leaves Ichigo with half his spiritual power drained. Rukia, Renji, and other Shinigami soon arrive from Soul Society to give him a hand to stop the destructive Baishin. This special is 33 minutes long.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Episodes 52 and 53 originally aired together as a one hour special.
- ↑ Episode 63 was an hour-long special.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Episodes 68 and 69 originally aired together as a one hour special.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Episodes 73 and 74 originally aired together as a one hour special.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 Episodes 75 and 76 originally aired together as a one hour special.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 Episodes 84 and 85 originally aired together as a one hour special due to the 2006 World Cup.
