Why is Shunsui’s Bankai Banned in Bleach? Explanation

In the enchanting universe of Bleach, the Bankai is known as the most powerful and formidable manifestation of a Shinigami’s Zanpakuto. Despite the immense strength of many Bankai abilities, there are some that are considered too dangerous for regular use. Within this category of forbidden or “banned”Bankai is the one belonging to the former Captain-Commander, Shunsui Kyoraku.

Shunsui Kyoraku is highly respected as one of the strongest Shinigami in the Bleach universe. His Bankai, named Katen Kyokotsu: Karamatsu Shinjū, is renowned for its immense power and is considered one of the most formidable in existence. However, due to its indiscriminate nature, the Central 46 has enforced strict limitations on its usage, deeming it a prohibited Bankai within the Seireitei.

Shunsui’s Bankai and the Ban on Its Use in Bleach, Explained

Kyoraku Shunsui unleashes his bank account (Image via Shueisha)

Shunsui’s Bankai, Katen Kyokotsu: Karamatsu Shinjū, is a complex and multifaceted ability that presents great dangers to both the user and their allies. When Shunsui activates his Bankai, he holds his two swords in front of him with their blades pointed downwards, touching the ground. This powerful Bankai consists of multiple “acts”or techniques, each possessing its own distinct and potentially devastating effects.

The first event, known as Ichidanme: Tameraikizu no Wakachiai, solidifies a joint future between Shunsui and his foe. Any harm dealt to one is reflected onto the other, and vice versa. This demonstrates that Shunsui and his adversary are intricately linked, their destinies intertwined.

The second act, Nidanme: Zanki no Shitone, builds upon the idea of a shared fate. In the event that Shunsui is injured during the first act, he will be afflicted with an incurable ailment that causes black dots to appear all over his body. Essentially, this act serves as a punishment for any harm inflicted upon either Shunsui or his opponent.

Kyoraku Shunsui as the head of the Gotei 13 (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The final stage of Shunsui’s Bankai, called Sandanme: Dangyo no Fuchi, is possibly the most destructive. After enduring the intense emotions and mental strain of the earlier phases, the opponent is compelled to end their own life by falling into the “rising waters.”This results in both Shunsui and the opponent being submerged underwater, causing their spiritual energy to gradually diminish.

In the last phase, known as Shime no Dan: Itokiribasami Chizome no Nodobue, Shunsui has the ability to use a white thread to bind his adversary’s throat. From there, he is able to cut it off using his spiritual energy or by completely decapitating them.

Shunsui and Ukitake go up against Starrk (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The rationale for Shunsui’s Bankai restriction stems from its indiscriminate nature and the potential danger it poses to his allies. As referenced by Ukitake, when Shunsui attempted to use it against Starrk, the Bankai’s effects were far-reaching and could harm both enemies and friends. This poses a risk to those around Shunsui, as he could unintentionally injure or even fatally harm his fellow Shinigami if he were to activate his Bankai in their proximity.

The governing body of the Soul Society, known as the Central 46, acknowledged the immense power and potential danger of Shunsui’s Bankai. In order to regulate its use, strict limitations were placed upon it. Shunsui himself was well aware of these restrictions and was cautious about using his Bankai in the presence of allies, as the consequences could be catastrophic.

Examining Shunsui’s Bankai Usage in Bleach

Shunsui uses his Bankai on Lillie Barro (Image via Shueisha)

Despite the limitations placed on his Bankai, Shunsui was eventually compelled to utilize it in his fight against Lille Barro, a formidable Quincy warrior. Confronted with an adversary who appeared to be invincible, Shunsui came to the realization that he had no other option but to unleash the complete power of his Bankai.

Upon activation, Shunsui’s Bankai, Katen Kyokotsu: Karamatsu Shinjū, demonstrated its full potential. This resulted in both Shunsui and Lille Barro being afflicted with a crippling illness and being submerged. The Bankai effectively showcased its immense strength and adaptability.

Despite its power, utilizing this Bankai carried potential dangers. Shunsui had to meticulously strategize and plan, taking great care to ensure that none of his allies would be harmed by its effects. His precise maneuvering and calculated use of the Bankai proved instrumental in defeating Lille Barro, but the inherent risks were always a concern.

Conclusion

Kyoraku Shunsui as shown in Bleach TYBW (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The use of Shunsui Kyoraku’s Bankai, Katen Kyokotsu: Karamatsu Shinjū, is a powerful and heavily limited skill in the Bleach universe. Its destructive consequences, such as a shared destiny, incurable illness, and compelled self-destruction, deem it a Bankai that should be handled with care.

The Central 46’s ruling to prohibit or limit the use of Shunsui’s Bankai exemplifies the immense power and peril it holds, not only for his adversaries but also for his comrades. By utilizing this Bankai strategically and thoughtfully against Lille Barro, Shunsui demonstrates his true skill and willingness to make sacrifices in order to defend the Soul Society.