I've heard that the Kyoto arc is very faithfully adapted from the manga so this post might be useless but I'll note down anything I see anyway haha. (EDIT: There's more than I thought LOL, it's actually tiring! I'm probably just picky lol)
Meeting Makimachi Misao
Besides the bits and pieces of extra detail the anime decided to add such as Yahiko saying goodbye to Tsubame and stuff like that, the anime seems quite faithful to the manga. They also added that little bit of fighting when Misao meets Kenshin for the first time and tries to attack him but he keeps dodging. It was all done in jest though since they went all chibi and so I actually appreciated that addition in the anime since it made their first meeting really cute. Oh and when they were jumping up to a rooftop(?) to return the money Misao stole, in the anime, she slipped a bit but in the manga, she landed successfully with no trouble indicating that she is quite capable. The anime probably wanted to make it a bit funny but I honestly would prefer the manga in this since this directly refers to Misao's abilities and I think she deserved that little badge of capability for this one.
When Misao is chasing Kenshin in the forest and Kenshin thinks about Kaoru who he had left because he didn't want her to be in danger (he believes that Aoshi left Misao for the same reason), the anime flashbacks to a moment when Kenshin grabbed Kaoru's hand as they were taking cover from rain and Kaoru blushed. In the manga, Kenshin just flashbacks to her face. I'll admit that the touching hand scene is soo cute and squeal-worthy that I really liked it but then that would mean Kenshin had practically confirmed his feelings for Kaoru before that farewell scene and thus makes it not as groundbreaking as it really should be. Personally, I don't mind, I enjoy both versions. Btw this is also the moment I fell in love with Misao, because her sincere feelings for wanting to find Aoshi because she can't forget about him was one that really touched me.
Mishima Eiji
Besides some things being shown in a different order (which is totally fine since manga and anime are different and so storytelling wise they would change things up to make it flow nicely as a show), one thing I noticed is with Misao again loll. They added that little comedic part of her being scared of spiders and that's why Shishio's underlings found her and Eiji hiding in the bushes but really, she just appeared before them and smacked them, which I honestly prefer since Misao seems to rush head on into things more.
I still love how she says, "I, Makimachi Misao has no name to give to villains!" lmaoo. Oh and there was no taunting from the underling to Eiji on whether he's killed anyone before etc and then him trying to stab him but Misao stops him. I guess that addition in the anime exemplifies his hatred more. And the big brother that died doesn't get a flashback and Eiji's case is solved quite simply but concisely. The addition of the flashback was nice though because a brother's love is always something wonderful to see. There's other random little differences but they're not important enough to care about hahaha.
Training with Anji
Anji didn't tell Sano that the training would be really tough and advise against it for him, Sano also didn't show any of his skills as a fighter to Anji either. In the manga, he simply asked him what he thought about the Meiji government and that was all. I don't mind both but with the manga's simple clear-cut way, you could tell much more easily that what Anji valued above all else was Sano's feelings towards the Meiji government, whether he could succeed in the training or not is his own problem.
Also, in the anime Anji states that Sano must die if he can't learn the Futae no Kiwami since he never intended to pass this technique on to future generations and because Sano said he was willing to risk his life, but in the manga Anji just says that he must die if he can't learn it within the allocated time. It may not seem to be a big difference but I prefer the manga because it shows that shounen-esque resolve where if you want to learn something powerful, you have to risk your life for it. Not because you think it's a secret technique so you don't want them blabbing about it etc but because if you can't even learn it, then that means you're not worthy of your resolve and of this technique.
The part where Captain Sagara appears though still hurts my heart T_T the anime does it so well because of the soundtrack T_T and I really love Sano's VA as well so that helps a lot. This is one part I'd recommend over the manga just because the soundtrack is so beautiful T_T
Kenshin vs. Chou
It's pretty much the same as the manga I'd say with minor enough differences that I'd say whichever is fine. If you prefer your battles in motion, then the anime will be the winner though of course. The only thing I'll be nitpicky about is that in the manga Kenshin himself realised that the katana in his hand was a sakabatou afterwards alongside everyone else, unlike the anime where Arai Seikuu tells Kenshin to look at the katana and see that it was actually a sakabatou. I just feel like Kenshin should be the first one to be able to feel if it was a sakabatou or not from the impact he made even if he was convinced that it was a normal katana.
Leaving the Aoiya
I'm not sure why the anime changed this but when Kenshin decided to leave the Aoiya, he informed Misao and Okina properly as they were sitting down discussing it. Whereas, in the anime, he leaves after Okina tells him the whereabouts of Hiko Seijuurou and it is only when Kenshin is at the door that Misao realises that he's leaving the Aoiya. Because of this, we also miss out on the joke where Okina tells Kenshin to pay the bill for ten days worth of staying there and Kenshin turns to stone hearing it hahahaha.
In the manga, Kenshin's reason for leaving is much more pronounced where he explicitly states that he doesn't want to drag them into this, especially since Seikuu's family got dragged into it this time. I knew Kenshin felt that way but this wasn't explicitly show in the anime. Misao retorts stating that she knows kempo etc and that she's not like Iori (Seikuu's kid that was caught by Chou) but Kenshin says that in Shishio's eyes, they are the same and Okina accepts his reason for leaving.
Also, in the manga, they had not found Hiko Seijuurou's whereabouts yet so really, it enforces Kenshin's conviction to not remain here and have them get hurt because of him, whereas in the anime, it doesn't feel as strong since he needed to leave to meet Hiko anyway. As Kenshin leaves, Misao also shouts that Kenshin should take the advice that he gave to Eiji, 'to be happy' since if he only carries these burdens himself, he'll be miserable by trying to do everything himself. In the manga, Misao does not chase after Kenshin either.
Instead of Kaoru and Yahiko noticing Aoshi and then bumping into Misao on the streets as they watched people walk by trying to find Kenshin, Kaoru and Yahiko were actually working at the Shirobeko and had put up a notice looking for Kenshin. Personally, I prefer this because I thought it was pretty stupid and useless to be sitting on steps watching people pass by to see if you see Kenshin, like c'mon even if he does pass by, what are the chances you'll actually see him with the sea of people there? Misao goes to the Shirobeko to cheer herself up (3 days after Kenshin left) since Kenshin's an idiot (hahaha) and sees the missing person notice for Kenshin (which is so cute btw LOL, so sad they didn't animate this). As Misao sees the notice, she shouts "Himura!" and Kaoru headbutts her because of how excited she is that someone knows Kenshin.
In the background, Okina fires a signal flare to the sky for Kenshin to indicate he has found Hiko and it is shown that Hiko sees this and finds it unusual that people still use these flares, not that it concerns him. Later on, Kenshin visits Okina to know the whereabouts of Hiko, and Okina apologises that he wanted to help Kenshin until the end but his priorities are with protecting the Aoiya and Misao. Then we go back to Kaoru and Misao's awkward exchange because Kaoru doesn't know where to start, in which eventually incites some funny remarks from Misao where they misunderstand the idea of Kenshin travelling alone with her and having lived with her for a while hahaha. It was adorable. Kaoru is back to her usual self again and reacts madly to the idea that Kenshin has been playing with Misao all this time when Megumi and her were crying over his farewell so she decides that she's going to find Kenshin no matter what and shakes Misao hoping to get an answer LOL. It was only because customers of the Shirobeko noticed the signal flare as well that Misao was able to direct Kaoru and Yahiko to where Kenshin is. Basically, the anime kept the most important bits and omitted or changed the other stuff to make it shorter but still retaining the gist of everything.
Personally, I prefer the manga because the funny scene in the Shirobeko was a nicer first meeting between Misao and Kaoru and I feel like Kenshin's reason for leaving was much more developed in the manga rather than his usual simple excuse of not wanting to drag people into his troubles, since it is quite relevant that it was true this time in that Arai Seikuu did become involved mainly because Kenshin went to look for him and omitting that made Kenshin's reason for leaving less convincing, as he should have never involved himself with the Aoiya in the first place if he thought like that. Him stating the circumstance with Seikuu shows that things are different now because someone did actually get involved this time, so he must leave (even if it's probably too late now lol).
I also liked how Okina asked Kaoru the same question as Misao, where superficial feelings towards Kenshin would only hinder him etc and it was shown rather comically since Misao had already asked Kaoru. But I really liked Kaoru's simple response of a bow and saying something like "please" (since they want to know the exact location of where Kenshin went) with her hands gripping her kimono tightly showing her conviction and devotion to finding him. It was simple but important and I think I would have enjoyed seeing this in the anime since I always felt like Kaoru going to Kyoto was a serious decision but I always felt that they didn't show enough of it and so I always thought of her as more of a burden tbh. This simple gesture alongside her previous answer to Misao was very important to me.
Hiko Seijuurou
When Kaoru and Yahiko realise that Misao is part of the Oniwaban, before Kaoru tells Misao about what happened to Aoshi, she reiterates that she probably doesn't know the full details since she was not there. It was only in the anime that Kaoru was at Kanryuu's mansion.
When Aoshi sends a letter to the Aoiya for Okina, the middleperson who gives it to him in the manga are three little girls instead of one. I like that scene though, it was pretty funny hahaha. Not sure why they bothered changing it but it was funny. Also, when Okina and Aoshi meet, Okina actually orders some food so it's really like a little restaurant instead of him just sitting on the bench talking, so really, the anime just decided to omit that part which in my view was important in the sense that it created a proper setting. I always thought it was a weird scene imo because it was obvious that they were talking to each other and they made no effort to conceal it. They also shortened the conversation, since Okina did tell Aoshi that Kenshin was at the Aoiya but now he doesn't know where he is and Aoshi remarked that he was right under his nose and yet missed him.
I guess they wanted to make it more solemn and serious in the anime but when Kenshin kneeled down and asked Hiko to teach him what was left of the Hiten Mitsurugi style, I really liked how in the manga, he immediately refused and Kenshin had his stupid face hahaha. But I guess this is a matter of preference. I just enjoy Hiko's antics quite a bit and thought was funny. I also feel like they missed out on one of Hiko's important lines which was "You ishin shishi believed in justice and supported it. You certainly built the Meiji government out of the violence. But at the same time, to hide your wrongdoings, you buried in darkness whatever wasn't convenient" which completely words the exact problem of the Meiji government and all the problems that are occurring now. So I was rather sad that the anime cut this out and focused on Hiko stating that Kenshin had a role in creating Shishio Makoto and the vengeance he seeks now.
Also, reading the manga again, they most definitely shortened the conversation in the anime, it has the gist of it but the anime tries to create an impact through its animation effects etc whereas the manga keeps its' impact through what Hiko says. Hiko relents that what Kenshin thought as the 14 y/o that left was right in that the Hiten Mitsurugi Style is used to protect those suffering from the ages but its strength was meant to be based on the ideals of freedom and not choosing a side and becoming dogs of the government. It really showed that Kenshin never really understood the impact of his sword as a teenager and he is now reaping the consequences of it.
I also really don't like how in the anime they made Misao and Yahiko ask Kaoru what is she doing when Kenshin's just inside at Hiko's place since in the manga all she did was grip her kimono but no, the anime had to emphasise Kaoru's hesitance to entering making it really misleading! In the manga, you can feel that she is hesitant because he's just behind that door but in the anime, it seems more like her conviction is weak and everything she said before was just half-assed and it made me very annoyed at Kaoru in the anime. These little actions of hers in the anime was so overdone that it made me think that she really should just go home because she isn't firm towards her decision of meeting Kenshin at all. I'm very disappointed that the anime makes this impression by adding all this crap. It doesn't help that I think the manga has the right balance of this and so when they follow the manga and add their own stuff like this, it just becomes over the top and annoying that Kaoru is so hesitant when she's really not that hesitant at all. They also cut out some little antics (again) that made it more cute and stuff.
Since they changed how Misao and Kaoru met as well, they couldn't add in the fact that Kaoru also said that at the Shirobeko, she felt like hitting him but when she saw him, she wasn't able to. I feel like they either didn't have the time or took these lines really lightly when they're actually really important because by Kaoru saying this, I could understand her feelings much more than her simple "I wanted to see Kenshin", that's the crux of it but these details on the side are very important. This is why communication fails these days! They leave out important details!
I feel like I'm complaining now but I guess I have a lot of problems with this LOL. Also, when Hiko decides to teach Kenshin the secret techniques, I could never really see why in the anime because he seemed so unimpressed with what Kenshin said by merely stating that Kenshin is still saying the same thing he said years ago when he left. Whereas, in the manga, he calls Kenshin stupid but understands that despite the years that have passed, Kenshin's conviction towards saving people has not changed and it shows through his expression and smirk that this is what he acknowledges about Kenshin's principles and why he is worth teaching the secrets. I know it's essentially the same, but details, details! Hiko carries a gentle expression along with the smirk as well so really.. I guess this is a drawing problem LOL. But nah, it's probably just the overall feel of everything.
I am also very sad that they cut out Hiko making jokes about how he's doing this because he's too lazy to look for another disciple and he's too lazy to deal with Shishio himself despite it being the easiest way for him hahahah. They also cut out the little bit where after Hiko says that if he learns the secret technique, Kenshim should be as strong as him and then he thinks nah, he's not that good and should only be able to touch his level of strength LOL. To which, I personally agree because I thought it was rather weird that the anime said he'd be on the same level as Hiko if he learnt it and that's all, because I honestly didn't think so. But that might be me being bias towards Hiko. However, Hiko is definitely stronger emotionally and that's a crucial part to fighting, so I still stand to my words.
Basically, I'd say I wasn't too impressed with how Hiko Seijuurou's part was done. However it isn't because it was bad, it's only because it could have been much better, especially since his master is such a great and cool character.
Shishio Makoto's Homura Dama
They definitely censored the part where Shishio sliced some random guy that tried to steal a sword too loll! I was actually really confused about this part because I wasn't sure if he was slicing thin air or not and it really made Shishio's ruthlessness and power lose some impact. The lack of Houji's reactions to the body catching on fire from his sword and not being able to see the sword leave the scabbard in the anime also made this cool scene seem rather mundane and useless as well. I also don't like how when Aoshi comes along with Soujiro to meet Shishio for info on Kenshin and Shishio says he's a strange guest, I'm not sure if it's a lost in translation thing but I always thought it was weird because it sounded stupid, as if he wasn't expecting Aoshi or something when he fully was and knew he would come. Honestly, I prefer the manga where he just says that Aoshi is the first outsider to come here.
Late night attack on the Aoiya
Danngg! The manga was so cool for this part, well not exactly cool but LOL the anime totally censored the part where the Oniwaban got some candles and nails to impale one of the guy's (under Shishio) hands and then sent him to report on the failure of their mission.. The guy also has a knife carved message (from Okina) on his back to Shishio's base stating where Aoshi and he should meet alone. Okina so ruthless! I would've liked to see this in the anime but I can see why they cut it out considering the other violent stuff they cut out hahaha. I've always thought the Oniwaban at the Aoiya were rather weak physically and also weak-willed in terms of their strength and ability to engage in combat or anything so seeing this gives you an understanding that although they are living rather peaceful lives now, they still retain a bit of their skills and ruthlessness from the past.
Aoshi vs. Okina
Here and there are additions and minor changes but not enough to complain about haha. Although it was much more bloody when Aoshi slashed Okina, it was like dangg, all that blood splatter. But it's fine, in the end, the effect is mostly the same because of Misao's reaction to it.
However, I am very disappointed that the anime decided the cut the part where Aoshi actually did go to the Aoiya to ask where Kenshin was. In the anime, he tells Misao (after he nearly killed Okina) to tell Kenshin that he'll be waiting at Shishio's hideout. But, in the manga, he actually goes to the Aoiya and whilst the rest of the Oniwaban are flustered since even Okina could not stop him, Yahiko steps out to say that he thought Aoshi was better than this. It was quite terrible to have to see Aoshi actually say he'd kill them if they won't tell, but in the anime, I always wondered why he never bothered to go to the Aoiya when he said he would LOL. Yahiko tells him that even without Aoshi going to look for him, Kenshin will fight him anyway, to which Kaoru steps in telling Aoshi to not wield that bloodstained sword that only brings misery to himself anymore. Kaoru was really cool when she said that so I'm sad that the anime didn't let her have her cool lines haha.
I think the manga does a better job with this scene to show how determined Aoshi is in killing Kenshin and how much he's lost himself to it. It also makes more sense (obviously) haha.
Misao as the new Okashira
I also thought when Misao changed to her shinobi uniform (?) and her declaration in her mind that the Oniwaban is where all her happiness lies and thus she can't possibly go live as a normal girl made her decision to proclaim herself as the okashira flow much better. Also, her resolve was seen plainly with the fact that she says that even if the enemy is Aoshi, she will not hold back because she and Kenshin will stop Shishio. I really enjoyed her show of determination and was sad the anime cut these few lines out.
I was rather surprised that in the manga, Misao herself tells Kenshin that they must destroy Aoshi but in the anime, Misao is evidently distressed over the idea and does not want him to be killed. Maybe the anime people decided that it didn't make sense for Misao to tell Kenshin to destroy him and then be so shocked when Okina tells Kenshin to kill Aoshi. To be fair, I think Misao saying that was quite important because it shows the conflict between her feelings as Misao (herself) and her feelings as the new Okashira that is burdened with the Oniwaban now. When she said that Aoshi needs to be destroyed, she knew of it as the correct choice because of what Aoshi had done and become, but when Okina so definitively asked Kenshin to do this as a favour for him, I think it finally hit her that they really plan on ending his life and that made her realise that despite what has happened and what she thinks, she really doesn't want Aoshi to die. After all, Misao is only 16 y/o and immature, but despite that, I think any other person would be quite conflicted about such a thing and so I think having her say that in the manga portrayed the confusion in her heart well, whereas in the anime, it is instead perceived that despite what Aoshi had done to Okina, she had forgiven him. But, I guess it doesn't matter THAT much..
Houji's resolve
Omgg when Houji tore out his nails to show his loyalty and allegiance to Shishio, I was like danggg, it would have made such a great impact in the anime! But I guess you can't go too crazy in the anime LOL, but I still felt his undying loyalty (in a censored way) towards Shishio so I guess that doesn't matter.
Usui's entrance was cooler in the manga too hahaha!
Sanosuke vs. Yuukyuuzan Anji
Personally, I preferred the anime for Anji's story with the extra details they added to his back story and stuff making it easier to empathise with Anji's feelings. It showed the children's suffering and hope very well and how much Anji wished to protect those simple wishes and how much he devoted himself to Buddha and yet these children could not be spared.
I'm not sure if I like the idea where the anime made it that Sano was so injured that he had to stay there for a bit to heal his wounds before joining with Kenshin later, since in the manga he rubbed some of Megumi's medicine on him and walked pretty fine after the fight with Anji haha. I mean, I do like the idea of them making Sano to have more endurance than the anime shows since that's Sano's strongest factor haha. So I guess there were good and bad things for both haha, the soundtrack always makes things cool too!
Saitou Hajime vs. Uonuma Usui
I'd recommend the anime since it's moving + soundtrack but I do really love the manga as well <3 Either is good, I just really love Saito's VA so dangg hahaha. Splitting Usui's body in half in the manga is something I'm not too sure about either, seems a bit exaggerated but still cool since it makes Saito Hajime even cooler hahahah. Basically, both mediums are good.
Kenshin vs. Shinomori Aoshi
Pretty much the same I believe. But as usual, who can resist seeing Aoshi in action? <3 Personally, Aoshi's fighting style in the beginning and at this point are my favourites of the series so you can't blame me for wanting to see Aoshi animated hahaha. Needless to say, it was beautiful and I enjoyed the resolution to Aoshi's wounded heart in the manga and the anime. But dangg, Aoshi is the best looking guy too imo <3 and his soundtrack just makes the mood so solemn and heart wrenching T_T
Kenshin vs. Seta Soujirou
Minor differences such as the input of Senkaku and Soujirou talking together in the anime. Both versions were really good but I actually quite like the seizure-inducing (LOL) shukuchi (pretty much) that was constantly flashing in the anime hahaha. It also displayed how fearsome Soujirou was very well. But I do have to maintain that although the anime showed Soujirou's deep sadness very well (I cried T_T), the manga echoes a very strong heart wrenching pain towards Soujirou's experiences and his existence. They both made me cry so they're both good T_T
Kenshin vs. Shishio Makoto
Pretty much faithfully adapted in the anime. I'd recommend the anime for the soundtrack and to be able to see the movements of the battle/techniques better but otherwise, both were very enjoyable.
Overall, the Kyoto arc was mostly beautifully adapted in terms of the fights but lacked some emotions that could have been rendered better. Nevertheless, I love both and would watch and read Kenshin again and again. I think I love it just as much as Hunter x Hunter. That's a really big deal btw because I've rewatched/read HxH many times since I fell in love with it in primary school so that's nearing 20 years! Hahaha, but yeah, these are just future reference for me if I'm ever curious about the differences again XD And I'll be back to my normal reviews soon~~
Besides the bits and pieces of extra detail the anime decided to add such as Yahiko saying goodbye to Tsubame and stuff like that, the anime seems quite faithful to the manga. They also added that little bit of fighting when Misao meets Kenshin for the first time and tries to attack him but he keeps dodging. It was all done in jest though since they went all chibi and so I actually appreciated that addition in the anime since it made their first meeting really cute. Oh and when they were jumping up to a rooftop(?) to return the money Misao stole, in the anime, she slipped a bit but in the manga, she landed successfully with no trouble indicating that she is quite capable. The anime probably wanted to make it a bit funny but I honestly would prefer the manga in this since this directly refers to Misao's abilities and I think she deserved that little badge of capability for this one.
When Misao is chasing Kenshin in the forest and Kenshin thinks about Kaoru who he had left because he didn't want her to be in danger (he believes that Aoshi left Misao for the same reason), the anime flashbacks to a moment when Kenshin grabbed Kaoru's hand as they were taking cover from rain and Kaoru blushed. In the manga, Kenshin just flashbacks to her face. I'll admit that the touching hand scene is soo cute and squeal-worthy that I really liked it but then that would mean Kenshin had practically confirmed his feelings for Kaoru before that farewell scene and thus makes it not as groundbreaking as it really should be. Personally, I don't mind, I enjoy both versions. Btw this is also the moment I fell in love with Misao, because her sincere feelings for wanting to find Aoshi because she can't forget about him was one that really touched me.
Mishima Eiji
Besides some things being shown in a different order (which is totally fine since manga and anime are different and so storytelling wise they would change things up to make it flow nicely as a show), one thing I noticed is with Misao again loll. They added that little comedic part of her being scared of spiders and that's why Shishio's underlings found her and Eiji hiding in the bushes but really, she just appeared before them and smacked them, which I honestly prefer since Misao seems to rush head on into things more.
I still love how she says, "I, Makimachi Misao has no name to give to villains!" lmaoo. Oh and there was no taunting from the underling to Eiji on whether he's killed anyone before etc and then him trying to stab him but Misao stops him. I guess that addition in the anime exemplifies his hatred more. And the big brother that died doesn't get a flashback and Eiji's case is solved quite simply but concisely. The addition of the flashback was nice though because a brother's love is always something wonderful to see. There's other random little differences but they're not important enough to care about hahaha.
Training with Anji
Anji didn't tell Sano that the training would be really tough and advise against it for him, Sano also didn't show any of his skills as a fighter to Anji either. In the manga, he simply asked him what he thought about the Meiji government and that was all. I don't mind both but with the manga's simple clear-cut way, you could tell much more easily that what Anji valued above all else was Sano's feelings towards the Meiji government, whether he could succeed in the training or not is his own problem.
Also, in the anime Anji states that Sano must die if he can't learn the Futae no Kiwami since he never intended to pass this technique on to future generations and because Sano said he was willing to risk his life, but in the manga Anji just says that he must die if he can't learn it within the allocated time. It may not seem to be a big difference but I prefer the manga because it shows that shounen-esque resolve where if you want to learn something powerful, you have to risk your life for it. Not because you think it's a secret technique so you don't want them blabbing about it etc but because if you can't even learn it, then that means you're not worthy of your resolve and of this technique.
The part where Captain Sagara appears though still hurts my heart T_T the anime does it so well because of the soundtrack T_T and I really love Sano's VA as well so that helps a lot. This is one part I'd recommend over the manga just because the soundtrack is so beautiful T_T
Kenshin vs. Chou
It's pretty much the same as the manga I'd say with minor enough differences that I'd say whichever is fine. If you prefer your battles in motion, then the anime will be the winner though of course. The only thing I'll be nitpicky about is that in the manga Kenshin himself realised that the katana in his hand was a sakabatou afterwards alongside everyone else, unlike the anime where Arai Seikuu tells Kenshin to look at the katana and see that it was actually a sakabatou. I just feel like Kenshin should be the first one to be able to feel if it was a sakabatou or not from the impact he made even if he was convinced that it was a normal katana.
Leaving the Aoiya
I'm not sure why the anime changed this but when Kenshin decided to leave the Aoiya, he informed Misao and Okina properly as they were sitting down discussing it. Whereas, in the anime, he leaves after Okina tells him the whereabouts of Hiko Seijuurou and it is only when Kenshin is at the door that Misao realises that he's leaving the Aoiya. Because of this, we also miss out on the joke where Okina tells Kenshin to pay the bill for ten days worth of staying there and Kenshin turns to stone hearing it hahahaha.
In the manga, Kenshin's reason for leaving is much more pronounced where he explicitly states that he doesn't want to drag them into this, especially since Seikuu's family got dragged into it this time. I knew Kenshin felt that way but this wasn't explicitly show in the anime. Misao retorts stating that she knows kempo etc and that she's not like Iori (Seikuu's kid that was caught by Chou) but Kenshin says that in Shishio's eyes, they are the same and Okina accepts his reason for leaving.
Also, in the manga, they had not found Hiko Seijuurou's whereabouts yet so really, it enforces Kenshin's conviction to not remain here and have them get hurt because of him, whereas in the anime, it doesn't feel as strong since he needed to leave to meet Hiko anyway. As Kenshin leaves, Misao also shouts that Kenshin should take the advice that he gave to Eiji, 'to be happy' since if he only carries these burdens himself, he'll be miserable by trying to do everything himself. In the manga, Misao does not chase after Kenshin either.
Instead of Kaoru and Yahiko noticing Aoshi and then bumping into Misao on the streets as they watched people walk by trying to find Kenshin, Kaoru and Yahiko were actually working at the Shirobeko and had put up a notice looking for Kenshin. Personally, I prefer this because I thought it was pretty stupid and useless to be sitting on steps watching people pass by to see if you see Kenshin, like c'mon even if he does pass by, what are the chances you'll actually see him with the sea of people there? Misao goes to the Shirobeko to cheer herself up (3 days after Kenshin left) since Kenshin's an idiot (hahaha) and sees the missing person notice for Kenshin (which is so cute btw LOL, so sad they didn't animate this). As Misao sees the notice, she shouts "Himura!" and Kaoru headbutts her because of how excited she is that someone knows Kenshin.
In the background, Okina fires a signal flare to the sky for Kenshin to indicate he has found Hiko and it is shown that Hiko sees this and finds it unusual that people still use these flares, not that it concerns him. Later on, Kenshin visits Okina to know the whereabouts of Hiko, and Okina apologises that he wanted to help Kenshin until the end but his priorities are with protecting the Aoiya and Misao. Then we go back to Kaoru and Misao's awkward exchange because Kaoru doesn't know where to start, in which eventually incites some funny remarks from Misao where they misunderstand the idea of Kenshin travelling alone with her and having lived with her for a while hahaha. It was adorable. Kaoru is back to her usual self again and reacts madly to the idea that Kenshin has been playing with Misao all this time when Megumi and her were crying over his farewell so she decides that she's going to find Kenshin no matter what and shakes Misao hoping to get an answer LOL. It was only because customers of the Shirobeko noticed the signal flare as well that Misao was able to direct Kaoru and Yahiko to where Kenshin is. Basically, the anime kept the most important bits and omitted or changed the other stuff to make it shorter but still retaining the gist of everything.
Personally, I prefer the manga because the funny scene in the Shirobeko was a nicer first meeting between Misao and Kaoru and I feel like Kenshin's reason for leaving was much more developed in the manga rather than his usual simple excuse of not wanting to drag people into his troubles, since it is quite relevant that it was true this time in that Arai Seikuu did become involved mainly because Kenshin went to look for him and omitting that made Kenshin's reason for leaving less convincing, as he should have never involved himself with the Aoiya in the first place if he thought like that. Him stating the circumstance with Seikuu shows that things are different now because someone did actually get involved this time, so he must leave (even if it's probably too late now lol).
I also liked how Okina asked Kaoru the same question as Misao, where superficial feelings towards Kenshin would only hinder him etc and it was shown rather comically since Misao had already asked Kaoru. But I really liked Kaoru's simple response of a bow and saying something like "please" (since they want to know the exact location of where Kenshin went) with her hands gripping her kimono tightly showing her conviction and devotion to finding him. It was simple but important and I think I would have enjoyed seeing this in the anime since I always felt like Kaoru going to Kyoto was a serious decision but I always felt that they didn't show enough of it and so I always thought of her as more of a burden tbh. This simple gesture alongside her previous answer to Misao was very important to me.
Hiko Seijuurou
When Kaoru and Yahiko realise that Misao is part of the Oniwaban, before Kaoru tells Misao about what happened to Aoshi, she reiterates that she probably doesn't know the full details since she was not there. It was only in the anime that Kaoru was at Kanryuu's mansion.
When Aoshi sends a letter to the Aoiya for Okina, the middleperson who gives it to him in the manga are three little girls instead of one. I like that scene though, it was pretty funny hahaha. Not sure why they bothered changing it but it was funny. Also, when Okina and Aoshi meet, Okina actually orders some food so it's really like a little restaurant instead of him just sitting on the bench talking, so really, the anime just decided to omit that part which in my view was important in the sense that it created a proper setting. I always thought it was a weird scene imo because it was obvious that they were talking to each other and they made no effort to conceal it. They also shortened the conversation, since Okina did tell Aoshi that Kenshin was at the Aoiya but now he doesn't know where he is and Aoshi remarked that he was right under his nose and yet missed him.
I guess they wanted to make it more solemn and serious in the anime but when Kenshin kneeled down and asked Hiko to teach him what was left of the Hiten Mitsurugi style, I really liked how in the manga, he immediately refused and Kenshin had his stupid face hahaha. But I guess this is a matter of preference. I just enjoy Hiko's antics quite a bit and thought was funny. I also feel like they missed out on one of Hiko's important lines which was "You ishin shishi believed in justice and supported it. You certainly built the Meiji government out of the violence. But at the same time, to hide your wrongdoings, you buried in darkness whatever wasn't convenient" which completely words the exact problem of the Meiji government and all the problems that are occurring now. So I was rather sad that the anime cut this out and focused on Hiko stating that Kenshin had a role in creating Shishio Makoto and the vengeance he seeks now.
Also, reading the manga again, they most definitely shortened the conversation in the anime, it has the gist of it but the anime tries to create an impact through its animation effects etc whereas the manga keeps its' impact through what Hiko says. Hiko relents that what Kenshin thought as the 14 y/o that left was right in that the Hiten Mitsurugi Style is used to protect those suffering from the ages but its strength was meant to be based on the ideals of freedom and not choosing a side and becoming dogs of the government. It really showed that Kenshin never really understood the impact of his sword as a teenager and he is now reaping the consequences of it.
I also really don't like how in the anime they made Misao and Yahiko ask Kaoru what is she doing when Kenshin's just inside at Hiko's place since in the manga all she did was grip her kimono but no, the anime had to emphasise Kaoru's hesitance to entering making it really misleading! In the manga, you can feel that she is hesitant because he's just behind that door but in the anime, it seems more like her conviction is weak and everything she said before was just half-assed and it made me very annoyed at Kaoru in the anime. These little actions of hers in the anime was so overdone that it made me think that she really should just go home because she isn't firm towards her decision of meeting Kenshin at all. I'm very disappointed that the anime makes this impression by adding all this crap. It doesn't help that I think the manga has the right balance of this and so when they follow the manga and add their own stuff like this, it just becomes over the top and annoying that Kaoru is so hesitant when she's really not that hesitant at all. They also cut out some little antics (again) that made it more cute and stuff.
Since they changed how Misao and Kaoru met as well, they couldn't add in the fact that Kaoru also said that at the Shirobeko, she felt like hitting him but when she saw him, she wasn't able to. I feel like they either didn't have the time or took these lines really lightly when they're actually really important because by Kaoru saying this, I could understand her feelings much more than her simple "I wanted to see Kenshin", that's the crux of it but these details on the side are very important. This is why communication fails these days! They leave out important details!
I feel like I'm complaining now but I guess I have a lot of problems with this LOL. Also, when Hiko decides to teach Kenshin the secret techniques, I could never really see why in the anime because he seemed so unimpressed with what Kenshin said by merely stating that Kenshin is still saying the same thing he said years ago when he left. Whereas, in the manga, he calls Kenshin stupid but understands that despite the years that have passed, Kenshin's conviction towards saving people has not changed and it shows through his expression and smirk that this is what he acknowledges about Kenshin's principles and why he is worth teaching the secrets. I know it's essentially the same, but details, details! Hiko carries a gentle expression along with the smirk as well so really.. I guess this is a drawing problem LOL. But nah, it's probably just the overall feel of everything.
I am also very sad that they cut out Hiko making jokes about how he's doing this because he's too lazy to look for another disciple and he's too lazy to deal with Shishio himself despite it being the easiest way for him hahahah. They also cut out the little bit where after Hiko says that if he learns the secret technique, Kenshim should be as strong as him and then he thinks nah, he's not that good and should only be able to touch his level of strength LOL. To which, I personally agree because I thought it was rather weird that the anime said he'd be on the same level as Hiko if he learnt it and that's all, because I honestly didn't think so. But that might be me being bias towards Hiko. However, Hiko is definitely stronger emotionally and that's a crucial part to fighting, so I still stand to my words.
Basically, I'd say I wasn't too impressed with how Hiko Seijuurou's part was done. However it isn't because it was bad, it's only because it could have been much better, especially since his master is such a great and cool character.
Shishio Makoto's Homura Dama
They definitely censored the part where Shishio sliced some random guy that tried to steal a sword too loll! I was actually really confused about this part because I wasn't sure if he was slicing thin air or not and it really made Shishio's ruthlessness and power lose some impact. The lack of Houji's reactions to the body catching on fire from his sword and not being able to see the sword leave the scabbard in the anime also made this cool scene seem rather mundane and useless as well. I also don't like how when Aoshi comes along with Soujiro to meet Shishio for info on Kenshin and Shishio says he's a strange guest, I'm not sure if it's a lost in translation thing but I always thought it was weird because it sounded stupid, as if he wasn't expecting Aoshi or something when he fully was and knew he would come. Honestly, I prefer the manga where he just says that Aoshi is the first outsider to come here.
Late night attack on the Aoiya
Danngg! The manga was so cool for this part, well not exactly cool but LOL the anime totally censored the part where the Oniwaban got some candles and nails to impale one of the guy's (under Shishio) hands and then sent him to report on the failure of their mission.. The guy also has a knife carved message (from Okina) on his back to Shishio's base stating where Aoshi and he should meet alone. Okina so ruthless! I would've liked to see this in the anime but I can see why they cut it out considering the other violent stuff they cut out hahaha. I've always thought the Oniwaban at the Aoiya were rather weak physically and also weak-willed in terms of their strength and ability to engage in combat or anything so seeing this gives you an understanding that although they are living rather peaceful lives now, they still retain a bit of their skills and ruthlessness from the past.
Aoshi vs. Okina
Here and there are additions and minor changes but not enough to complain about haha. Although it was much more bloody when Aoshi slashed Okina, it was like dangg, all that blood splatter. But it's fine, in the end, the effect is mostly the same because of Misao's reaction to it.
However, I am very disappointed that the anime decided the cut the part where Aoshi actually did go to the Aoiya to ask where Kenshin was. In the anime, he tells Misao (after he nearly killed Okina) to tell Kenshin that he'll be waiting at Shishio's hideout. But, in the manga, he actually goes to the Aoiya and whilst the rest of the Oniwaban are flustered since even Okina could not stop him, Yahiko steps out to say that he thought Aoshi was better than this. It was quite terrible to have to see Aoshi actually say he'd kill them if they won't tell, but in the anime, I always wondered why he never bothered to go to the Aoiya when he said he would LOL. Yahiko tells him that even without Aoshi going to look for him, Kenshin will fight him anyway, to which Kaoru steps in telling Aoshi to not wield that bloodstained sword that only brings misery to himself anymore. Kaoru was really cool when she said that so I'm sad that the anime didn't let her have her cool lines haha.
I think the manga does a better job with this scene to show how determined Aoshi is in killing Kenshin and how much he's lost himself to it. It also makes more sense (obviously) haha.
Misao as the new Okashira
I also thought when Misao changed to her shinobi uniform (?) and her declaration in her mind that the Oniwaban is where all her happiness lies and thus she can't possibly go live as a normal girl made her decision to proclaim herself as the okashira flow much better. Also, her resolve was seen plainly with the fact that she says that even if the enemy is Aoshi, she will not hold back because she and Kenshin will stop Shishio. I really enjoyed her show of determination and was sad the anime cut these few lines out.
I was rather surprised that in the manga, Misao herself tells Kenshin that they must destroy Aoshi but in the anime, Misao is evidently distressed over the idea and does not want him to be killed. Maybe the anime people decided that it didn't make sense for Misao to tell Kenshin to destroy him and then be so shocked when Okina tells Kenshin to kill Aoshi. To be fair, I think Misao saying that was quite important because it shows the conflict between her feelings as Misao (herself) and her feelings as the new Okashira that is burdened with the Oniwaban now. When she said that Aoshi needs to be destroyed, she knew of it as the correct choice because of what Aoshi had done and become, but when Okina so definitively asked Kenshin to do this as a favour for him, I think it finally hit her that they really plan on ending his life and that made her realise that despite what has happened and what she thinks, she really doesn't want Aoshi to die. After all, Misao is only 16 y/o and immature, but despite that, I think any other person would be quite conflicted about such a thing and so I think having her say that in the manga portrayed the confusion in her heart well, whereas in the anime, it is instead perceived that despite what Aoshi had done to Okina, she had forgiven him. But, I guess it doesn't matter THAT much..
Houji's resolve
Omgg when Houji tore out his nails to show his loyalty and allegiance to Shishio, I was like danggg, it would have made such a great impact in the anime! But I guess you can't go too crazy in the anime LOL, but I still felt his undying loyalty (in a censored way) towards Shishio so I guess that doesn't matter.
Usui's entrance was cooler in the manga too hahaha!
Sanosuke vs. Yuukyuuzan Anji
Personally, I preferred the anime for Anji's story with the extra details they added to his back story and stuff making it easier to empathise with Anji's feelings. It showed the children's suffering and hope very well and how much Anji wished to protect those simple wishes and how much he devoted himself to Buddha and yet these children could not be spared.
I'm not sure if I like the idea where the anime made it that Sano was so injured that he had to stay there for a bit to heal his wounds before joining with Kenshin later, since in the manga he rubbed some of Megumi's medicine on him and walked pretty fine after the fight with Anji haha. I mean, I do like the idea of them making Sano to have more endurance than the anime shows since that's Sano's strongest factor haha. So I guess there were good and bad things for both haha, the soundtrack always makes things cool too!
Saitou Hajime vs. Uonuma Usui
I'd recommend the anime since it's moving + soundtrack but I do really love the manga as well <3 Either is good, I just really love Saito's VA so dangg hahaha. Splitting Usui's body in half in the manga is something I'm not too sure about either, seems a bit exaggerated but still cool since it makes Saito Hajime even cooler hahahah. Basically, both mediums are good.
Kenshin vs. Shinomori Aoshi
Pretty much the same I believe. But as usual, who can resist seeing Aoshi in action? <3 Personally, Aoshi's fighting style in the beginning and at this point are my favourites of the series so you can't blame me for wanting to see Aoshi animated hahaha. Needless to say, it was beautiful and I enjoyed the resolution to Aoshi's wounded heart in the manga and the anime. But dangg, Aoshi is the best looking guy too imo <3 and his soundtrack just makes the mood so solemn and heart wrenching T_T
Kenshin vs. Seta Soujirou
Minor differences such as the input of Senkaku and Soujirou talking together in the anime. Both versions were really good but I actually quite like the seizure-inducing (LOL) shukuchi (pretty much) that was constantly flashing in the anime hahaha. It also displayed how fearsome Soujirou was very well. But I do have to maintain that although the anime showed Soujirou's deep sadness very well (I cried T_T), the manga echoes a very strong heart wrenching pain towards Soujirou's experiences and his existence. They both made me cry so they're both good T_T
Kenshin vs. Shishio Makoto
Pretty much faithfully adapted in the anime. I'd recommend the anime for the soundtrack and to be able to see the movements of the battle/techniques better but otherwise, both were very enjoyable.
Overall, the Kyoto arc was mostly beautifully adapted in terms of the fights but lacked some emotions that could have been rendered better. Nevertheless, I love both and would watch and read Kenshin again and again. I think I love it just as much as Hunter x Hunter. That's a really big deal btw because I've rewatched/read HxH many times since I fell in love with it in primary school so that's nearing 20 years! Hahaha, but yeah, these are just future reference for me if I'm ever curious about the differences again XD And I'll be back to my normal reviews soon~~
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