Bankai
The second and full release of a Soul Reaper's zanpakutō.
Bankai is the second transformation of a zanpakutō in Bleach. It is usually seen in Soul Reaper captains, takes at least ten years to master, and unlocks the sword's full potential, multiplying its user's power several times over.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Second zanpakutō release
- Mastery
- At least ten years
- Usual users
- Captains
Lore & Background
Every Soul Reaper's zanpakutō reflects their soul. By learning the name of the sword's spirit and training, a Soul Reaper first reaches shikai, which works like a contract between them and the sword, and then bankai.
Reader's Guide
Known bankai include Yamamoto's Zanka no Tachi, whose heat drains all moisture from Soul Society, and Hitsugaya's Daiguren Hyōrinmaru. Kūgo Ginjō also used an unnamed bankai against Ichigo.
In the Thousand-Year Blood War the Sternritter steal the bankai of several captains, including Byakuya's, Komamura's and Hitsugaya's, and Yhwach takes Yamamoto's and kills him with it. Some captains later win theirs back.
More in Powers & Zanpakutō
Elsewhere in Bleach
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced