LayarHijau – The latest Japanese anime film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Castle Chapter 1 (鬼灭之刃 无限城 第一章) has set an impressive new record in China ahead of its release on November 14. As of November 6, the film’s total presale revenue had surpassed 50 million yuan (approximately USD 6.9 million) in just two days, marking the fastest presale achievement ever for a Japanese anime film released in the country.
On its first day alone, ticket presales reached 25 million yuan (around USD 3.4 million), reflecting massive audience anticipation. In comparison, The First Slam Dunk reached the same 50-million-yuan mark only four days before its premiere in April 2023, with first-day sales exceeding 20 million yuan. This means Mugen Castle Chapter 1 hit that milestone more than a week earlier, demonstrating even higher demand.
The film has already been released in Japan and several other territories, earning positive early reactions. On Douban, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Castle Chapter 1 holds a strong rating of 8.8, mostly from international viewers and early audiences who watched it before the official release in China.
The first installment of the Mugen Castle Arc continues Tanjiro Kamado’s journey after the intense battles on the Mugen Train, in the Entertainment District, and at the Swordsmith Village. Together with the Hashira, Tanjiro undergoes joint training to prepare for the final confrontation against the demons. However, chaos erupts when Muzan Kibutsuji, the leader of all demons, launches an assault on the Ubuyashiki estate, pulling Tanjiro and the Hashira into a dazzling yet deadly dimension — the “Mugen Castle,” an endless labyrinth that serves as the demons’ final stronghold.
Inside the castle, Tanjiro and Giyu Tomioka face the reappearance of Akaza, the Upper Moon Three demon who embodies both their physical and emotional scars. The clash that unfolds in the endless castle becomes a test of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds that define humanity amid the darkness.
According to data from Maoyan Pro, the Demon Slayer franchise has grossed over USD 680 million globally, including USD 239 million from Japan and USD 133 million from North America.
Meanwhile, Hollywood film Now You See Me 3 (惊天魔盗团3), which will also open in China next week, has recorded around 2 million yuan (USD 275,000) in presales—far behind the overwhelming demand for Mugen Castle Chapter 1.
