How old is Hotaru Haganezuka in Demon Slayer? The Swordsmith’s Age Explained

The fandom has been buzzing about Hotaru Haganezuka’s age in Demon Slayer since the character’s face was revealed during the Swordsmith Village Arc.

Despite his youthful appearance, fans speculate that Haganezuka’s anger issues may be due to his advanced age. This theory is supported by the fact that his age, 37 years old, has been revealed multiple times in the manga and a light novel of the series.

In addition, despite his advanced age, Haganezuka maintains a well-toned physique, which can be attributed to his occupation as a swordsmith for the Demon Slayer Corps.

Demon Slayer: Uncovering the Age of Legendary Swordsmith Hotaru Haganezuka

Haganezuka's appearance when he wears a mask (Image via Ufotable)
Haganezuka’s appearance when he wears a mask (Image via Ufotable)

Haganezuka was first introduced in episode 5/chapter 9 of the series as a supporting character. This happened after Tanjiro returned to Urokodaki’s home. He is a swordsmith affiliated with the Demon Slayer Corps and he paid a visit to Tanjiro to present him with his very first Nichirin Sword.

Initially, he appeared calm but as time passed and Tanjiro’s sword revealed its black attribute, his demeanor deteriorated. Although this did not hint at anything foreboding, it did irritate Haganezuka as he had anticipated a crimson red color from Tanjiro’s sword.

Haganezuka revealing his age in the manga (Image via Shueisha)
Haganezuka revealing his age in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

Despite Tanjiro’s annoyance, Haganezuka proceeded to express his disappointment while striking him. Tanjiro then inquired about Haganezuka’s age, to which he received a blunt response. Despite the playful exchange, Tanjiro was still given his first mission as a demon slayer.

So, what is the age of Hotaru Haganezuka from Demon Slayer? According to the official source material and the light novel of the series, he is 37 years old. This information has been confirmed in both sources.

The Funny Yet Scary Character of Haganezuka

Haganezuka's hot-blooded demeanor (Image via Ufotable)
Haganezuka’s hot-blooded demeanor (Image via Ufotable)

After his initial appearance, Haganezuka reappeared when Tanjiro returned from a mission in which he had damaged his Nichirin sword. As a man who deeply cares about swords, Haganezuka scolded Tanjiro for breaking something that he had put so much effort into creating.

From a young age, his fiery temperament was a defining trait. His parents struggled to handle it, leading them to entrust him to the care of Tecchin Tecchikawahara, the chief of Swordsmith Village. It was the village chief who bestowed upon him the name Hotaru.

Haganezuka's face reveal (Image via Ufotable)
Haganezuka’s face reveal (Image via Ufotable)

During the Swordsmith Village arc, Tanjiro stumbled upon the 300-year-old sword and was suddenly approached by Haganezuka, who swiftly took the sword from him before vanishing without a trace.

During Gyokko’s rampage, the Upper Moon Five Demon, he destroyed a shed in the village, exposing Haganezuka who was admiring and polishing the sword he had taken from Tanjiro.

Despite Gyokko’s attempts to distract him, Haganezuka remained focused and steadfast in his work. The demon’s assault persisted until he finally succeeded in breaking the swordsmith’s mask, revealing his face. To everyone’s surprise, Haganezuka’s face was that of a young man, despite his old age.

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