This summer, one of the most anticipated titles among Japanese moviegoers—Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc the Movie – Part 1: Akaza—will finally hit the big screen on July 18, 2025. As the beginning of the anime’s final arc, this film marks a major turning point in the story, following the events of the “Mugen Train,” “Entertainment District Arc,” and “Swordsmith Village Arc.” With a runtime of 155 minutes, the movie takes viewers into the enemy’s stronghold—Infinity Castle—and launches the climactic showdown between the Demon Slayer Corps and the demons.

【来場御礼入場者特典 第11弾】
劇場版「鬼滅の刃」無限城編
第一章 猗窩座再来

本日より、
新たな入場者特典の配布が開始。

「原作者・吾峠呼世晴 描き下ろし鑑賞御礼メッセージボード」
全国100万名様限定で配布いたします。https://t.co/wOeA2mb7oR#鬼滅の刃 #無限城編 pic.twitter.com/uuNNxoxamE

— 鬼滅の刃公式 (@kimetsu_off) November 28, 2025

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc the Movie

Part 1 of the Infinity Castle Arc continues the storyline from the anime, in which protagonist Tanjiro Kamado joins the Demon Slayer Corps alongside Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira in a quest to turn his demon-transformed sister, Nezuko, back into a human. After intense battles through the Mugen Train, Entertainment District, and Swordsmith Village Arcs, Tanjiro builds strong bonds with the Hashira. While the Corps undergoes joint Hashira Training in preparation for a final battle against Muzan Kibutsuji, Muzan suddenly appears at the Ubuyashiki estate, pulling Tanjiro and the Hashira into the mysterious realm of Infinity Castle—marking the beginning of a point-of-no-return endgame.

This film is not only a new high point for the Demon Slayer series but is also expected to be one of the biggest box office hits in Japan this summer. For fans who have followed the anime, it serves as an emotional and visual culmination. Even those unfamiliar with earlier arcs can enjoy the movie thanks to its consistently high-quality action scenes and special effects.

Release Date & Runtime for Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc

The official release date for Part 1 of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc is Friday, July 18, 2025. A special “World Premiere Screening” will be held at midnight (0:00 AM) on that day, limited to 24 theaters across 11 prefectures in Japan. Regular screenings will begin the same day at 443 theaters nationwide, including 53 IMAX-equipped locations, offering an enhanced viewing experience with immersive visuals and sound.

Ticket pre-sales vary slightly by theater, but most begin about three days prior to the release. For the World Premiere Screening, tickets went on sale starting at 12:00 AM on Monday, July 14, and quickly sold out. While some cinema chains like TOHO Cinemas usually offer early ticket access to members (typically four days in advance), this benefit does not apply to Demon Slayer screenings.

Viewers can search for showtimes and locations on the official websites or apps of major theater chains such as TOHO Cinemas, 109 Cinemas, and United Cinemas. Tickets can also be purchased on-site via self-service machines. Although most cinema websites are in Japanese, they feature icon-based navigation that works well with Google Translate. If you plan to watch the film in Japan, it’s recommended to check nearby theaters in advance and reserve your seats early.

Should You Watch the Previous Arcs First? Who Is This Movie For?

As the start of the anime’s final chapter, the Infinity Castle Arc directly follows the “Swordsmith Village Arc” and “Hashira Training Arc,” making it highly dependent on the audience’s understanding of character development, power progression, and the conflict between the Demon Slayer Corps and demons. To fully appreciate the emotional depth and storyline, it’s recommended to at least watch the latest season (Hashira Training Arc), which is available on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Bahamut Anime. Ideally, fans should start from Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc to experience the full narrative evolution.

That said, even viewers unfamiliar with the full series can still enjoy the film’s stunning animation and cinematic-quality action. With ufotable once again handling production, the film maintains the franchise’s top-tier visuals and choreography—making it a spectacle that’s enjoyable on its own.

This movie is perfect for:

• Fans who’ve followed the anime and are anticipating the final arc
• Viewers familiar with the story and looking to catch the latest movie hype
• Tourists in Japan who haven’t watched the series but enjoy action-packed anime with excellent sound and visuals
• Those who’ve seen the previous movie (Mugen Train) and are curious about theatrical anime

Even if you haven’t kept up with the anime but are curious due to the buzz, you’ll still be able to follow the movie, as the first half includes enough exposition and atmosphere-building to ease new viewers into the story.

Are Subtitles Available for Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc?

Please note that Japanese theaters generally do not offer foreign-language subtitle options, even for internationally popular anime like Demon Slayer. However, according to the official announcement, Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc – Part 1 will have Japanese subtitles (barrier-free screenings) available from Saturday, August 2 to Tuesday, August 5, specifically for viewers with hearing difficulties. Some of the theaters offering these subtitle screenings include:

[Tokyo]
Shinjuku Wald 9 / TOHO Cinemas Kinshicho / TOHO Cinemas Nishiarai / Tachikawa Cinema City

[Osaka]
TOHO Cinemas Umeda / TOHO Cinemas Namba / TOHO Cinemas Kuzuha Mall / TOHO Cinemas Otori

Other regions also offer limited subtitle screenings. Please check the official website or local theater listings for full details.

How to Buy Movie Tickets in Japan: A Practical Guide

For travelers watching a movie in Japan for the first time, the ticketing process is easier than you might expect. Whether reserving online or buying on-site, most major theater chains have clear user interfaces. Here’s how it works:

1. Online Reservation (Recommended)

Most theaters start selling tickets online around three days before the release date. Popular showings may sell out even earlier. It’s best to reserve via official websites or apps, such as:

• TOHO Cinemas (supports credit cards, PayPay, Apple Pay, etc.)
• 109 Cinemas
• MOVIX
• AEON Cinema

Online purchases usually accept only credit cards or carrier billing via Japanese mobile plans. TOHO Cinemas also supports PayPay and Apple Pay.

Note: Most websites are in Japanese, but you can use browser translation tools to navigate them.

2. On-Site Purchase via Self-Service Kiosks

If online booking isn’t convenient, you can buy tickets at self-service machines located near the theater entrance. These kiosks are easy to use and support multiple payment methods including cash, credit cards, and IC cards like Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA.

3. Choose Your Seat and Ticket Type

All movie tickets in Japan are for reserved seating. Whether buying online or in person, you must choose your seat. Tickets are categorized by type (adult, student, child), so select the appropriate pricing.

4. Use a QR Code or Printed Ticket for Entry

If you purchased online, you’ll receive a QR code or reservation number. Scan the QR code at the entrance or print a physical ticket at the machine when you arrive.

FAQ: What You Should Know Before Watching a Movie in Japan

Q: Are there English or foreign-language subtitles?

Generally, Japanese theaters do not offer foreign-language subtitles. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc – Part 1 will have Japanese subtitles (for the hearing impaired) from August 2–5 in select theaters, but there are no English or Chinese subtitles. Basic Japanese listening skills or prior familiarity with the story is recommended.

Q: Can I buy tickets at the theater last minute?

Yes, but popular screenings (especially weekends, evenings, and IMAX) often sell out. It’s better to check seat availability on TOHO Cinemas, 109 Cinemas, or other sites and book in advance.

Q: Can I pay in cash?

Online bookings don’t accept cash; you’ll need a credit card or Japanese mobile payment. However, theaters’ ticket machines and box offices usually accept cash and IC cards like Suica, so last-minute movie plans are still feasible.

Q: I don’t speak Japanese—can I still enjoy the movie?

For the most part, yes. While theater websites are in Japanese, Google Translate makes booking manageable. Inside the theater, signage is easy to understand. If you’re familiar with the series or just want to enjoy the animation and fight scenes, the experience is still very enjoyable even without understanding the language.

Q: Are there Demon Slayer merchandise for sale after the movie?

Depends on the theater. Large cinemas (e.g., TOHO, 109) often sell exclusive merchandise. You can also check out stores like Animate, Jump Shop, or GU for Demon Slayer goods.

Special Reminder for Fans Visiting Japan: Book Tickets Early!

Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Arc – Part 1 is launching during Japan’s summer travel peak, and the franchise’s massive popularity means that many screenings—even weekday evenings—may sell out quickly during opening week. Premium formats like IMAX or Dolby Cinema are especially competitive, so travelers planning to watch the movie should reserve in advance.

You can look up nearby theaters (like TOHO Cinemas or 109 Cinemas) before your trip and pick showtimes that fit your schedule. Most theaters support credit card payments for online bookings, and you can also use self-service machines to buy tickets with cash or IC cards like Suica or ICOCA after arrival—very convenient.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan specifically for Demon Slayer, don’t miss this chance to experience the emotional start of the final chapter alongside Japanese fans in the cinema.

Final Thoughts: A Must-See Experience for Demon Slayer Fans

As the anime series approaches its climax, Infinity Castle Arc – Part 1 is not only a narrative milestone but also a feast for both the eyes and the heart. Whether you’ve followed Demon Slayer since Season 1 or are simply curious due to the hype, this film offers the franchise’s signature blend of emotional storytelling and visual impact.

If you’re traveling to Japan, why not include this movie in your itinerary? Watching the final battle unfold with a packed Japanese audience in a theater could become a once-in-a-lifetime memory for any anime fan.

Relating Passage: Post Card: Demon Slayer(Kimetsu no Yaiba) the Movie: Mugen Train On Sale

Pictures from: fashion-press