English Dub Review: Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho “The Garden of Happiness Part 1”

Overview

In the fall of 1853, a samurai by the name of Naotsugu Miura grew concerned about his missing brother. However, everyone insists that he doesn’t have a brother.




Our Take

A new mystery unfolds as Jinya is approached to investigate a strange disappearance—one that seems to defy memory itself. Despite his initial reluctance, the connection to familiar faces and a growing sense of responsibility draw him into the case. As subtle clues emerge, including unusual symbols and hints tied to nature…

What makes the episode engaging isn’t just the central mystery, but the small, character-driven moments throughout. Jinya’s continued growth is evident as he begins to open up more, balancing his stoic nature with signs of warmth and humor which help the proceedings feel meaningful, helping to ground the story even when the plot takes a slower, more reflective turn.

Overall, this episode leans into atmosphere and quiet tension, favoring setup over action. While some may find its pace unhurried, it offers intriguing new questions and emotional nuance that build anticipation for what’s to come. With its soft melancholy and glimpses of deeper themes, the show continues to evolve gently, layering in depth while maintaining its calm, thoughtful tone. The question now is, what will happen in Part 2?