BLEACH TYBW Anime Cour 2 Booklet: Behind the Scenes [Translation - Part 2]
Translated by @reikorun
Section 4
Scene Direction & "BLEACH" In-depth
13. A colorful, spinning pinwheel. When it suddenly stops and disappears into a black mist, that was the signal for the invasion to begin. (ep. #14)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
I truly think that was a job very well done by Murata-san, who was in charge of directing this storyboard. I reckon the idea that peace ends the moment the pinwheel stops may have resonated deeply with viewers as an abstract motif.
14. The organization known as the "Sternritter" and its members are explored in depth in the anime. In order to strengthen the impression of their unity as a group, one additional element introduced in the anime is the concept and designation of "Wörtlich", which is the collective term for those who have been bestowed a Schrift by Yhwach. (ep. #15)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
Keeping in mind the idea of placing focus on the group that is the "Sternritter", when I revisited the original work, I noticed that each character's personality was so unique that there weren't many scenes where they assembled as a group and did something together. Therefore, we added a scene where the Grandmaster, Haschwalth, is positioned as the leader and the Wörtlich who possess a Schrift are gathered together in the same room. We structured it with a view to explicitly define what their purpose is and what kind of group they are. By doing so, I believe we were able to more clearly present the policy held unanimously by the Quincy side, that is, "to completely annihilate the Shinigami." During that meeting, we also had Haschwalth demonstrate his leadership by explaining the significance of "killing the Captains with their own stolen Bankai" in a way that is easy to understand even for new viewers.
A: Tite Kubo
It's a scene where they all come together in the same place, typical of BLEACH, isn't it? I suppose It's a homage to the past compositions where the Shinigami and Espada hold meetings, and it turned out to be something more than just fan service.
15. As for Giselle, Liltotto and Meninas, "Vollständig - Sklaverei" is depicted following on from Quilge, incorporating a "transformation scene" unique to the anime. (ep. #21)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
When explaining "Sklaverei" to Satō-san, who was in charge of directing the episode in question, it all started when I said, "It's about gathering Reishi from the surroundings to power up and take on something like a second form." When I looked at the storyboard that was sent up to me, it had turned into a scene reminiscent of the magical girl genre, so to speak. I was in two minds after I was asked "Isn't this what you meant…?" But I adopted the idea after considering that, in its own way, it could accentuate the individuality and presence of their characters.
A: Tite Kubo
I also couldn't help but laugh in a positive sense after seeing the staging of that transformation scene. I thought "magical girl, huh!?" (Laughs) I originally created the five members of the Bambies with the image of an idol group and sentai-like shows in mind, so it seemed like a perfect fit.
16. The volume of combat scenes involving the Bambies itself has also increased. (ep. #21)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
As for their entrance in episode #21, I wanted to expand on Ichigo's battle scenes upon his return to the Seireitei, this was a moment where I felt it may be possible to make that happen. This is the scene in which Ichigo draws his sword for the first time after having undergone training in Irazu Sandō, and it's precisely because extra scenes were being added that I felt it's the place where I wanted to try doing that. When I asked Kubo-sensei to design the Sklaverei forms for Candice and the others, we received materials on their techniques along with it, further accelerating the process. Although Kubo-sensei had mentioned that we didn't have to use everything, the more we looked at it, the more we wanted to incorporate it all, and the result is what you see.
A: Tite Kubo
I handed over the materials thinking that there was absolutely no way it would all fit given the time constraints, but surprisingly, everything was included. During the dubbing session, I was astonished to see that the number of shots had increased significantly compared to other episodes (laughs).
17. The spotlight was also cast on battles such as Kuchiki Byakuya vs NaNaNa Najahkoop, Robert Accutrone and Candice Catnipp. (ep. #23)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
In the original work, they simply appear in one panel after being defeated by Byakuya, don't they? We decided to take the liberty of supplementing the parts where we thought such a battle would have taken place. Since the TV anime follows a fixed length format, there are often times where it becomes necessary to extend the duration while deciding which part of the story to depict and where it should start and end. On such occasions, you can find the answer by rereading the original work. Given that there are as many battles as there are characters, we pick out what's likely to be the scenes that fans would like to see from among the parts that were omitted in the original work, and so we took the opportunity to add those part in thinking "let's track the movements of this character until they appear again in this panel."
18. The power of Gremmy's "The Visionary" may have troubled the production team the most. (ep. #20)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
I think it was challenging for the animators. After all, Gremmy can do just about anything. An all-out battle demonstrated by an individual who possesses an extraordinary power, capable of instantly creating huge debris, a large volume of water, a countless number of firearms, and to top it all off, even a colossal meteorite and the vacuum of space. If we ended up condensing it to be more brief, Gremmy's power itself becomes proportionally smaller, so I think it was a part that required energy and perseverance.
A: Tite Kubo
This aspect turned out to be a difficult scene to depict even in the original work (laughs). The CG of the firearms and the choreography of Kenpachi when he slashes the meteorite were also great.
19. Kuchiki Rukia's Bankai, "Hakka no Togame". Its checks were carried out carefully. (ep. #19)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
If you look at the panels in the original work, there is something like an updraft in a place that appears to be above Rukia, along with a circular area reminiscent of the Tsukishiro unleashed by her Sode no Shirayuki. I didn't quite understand how Rukia performs Bankai, what kind of phenomena occurs, or what mechanism it was that brought down Äs Nödt, so I asked Kubo-sensei: “Sequentially, when activating her Bankai, a freezing mist resembling the surface of a lake appears beneath her feet and in the sky, with a column of freezing mist emanating from Rukia herself piercing through the center.” We have faithfully reflected that. Furthermore, the slight translucency of Rukia's hair and skin is an original expression of the anime.
A: Tite Kubo
During the storyboarding stage, Taguchi-san had noted down "it's so beautiful that it takes your breath away (that's the kind of visual we need to incorporate)." So I've been looking forward to the finished product ever since. Regarding the framework of this Bankai too, I created the materials for it while looking back at my original work and retracing my memories from that time. That task was also fun. Additionally, the length of this episode had slipped into overtime, but since Äs Nödt is a character who tends to talk ominously for long periods of time, which is a 'characteristic trait' that defines him, we discussed if we could somehow manage without cutting anything. Ultimately, I had it made into a special ending format, I thought to myself how exceedingly well it turned out in the end.
20. Zero Division vs the Schutzstaffel. While adhering to the source material, the development spun in the anime original culminates in Shutara Senjumaru, thus raising expectations for the third cour. (ep. #26)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
As for the battle scene at the Soul King Palace, which can also be described as a clash between the strongest forces of both factions, I wanted to cast more of a spotlight on Uryū, who has been positioned as the face of the second cour. Although Kubo-sensei couldn't draw him due to page limitations, the Uryū that he wanted to draw must be somewhere. I want to see and portray the Bankai of Zero Division. That's the sort of thing I had in mind. So, I contemplated the matter in my head, hoping to express it in the anime, including the motive behind it. After formulating various plans, I presented my ideas to Kubo-sensei, and thus with a significant amount of cooperation from sensei, an anime episode like no other was completed.
21. The chosen, Shutara Senjumaru, and her Bankai. (ep. #26)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
Once the idea of "Zero Division Bankai" is settled upon, the next challenge arises: "whose Bankai will it be?" In the case of Senjumaru, who bears the meaning of 'having a thousand arms' in her name, we assumed she probably specializes in doing battle with several opponents at the same time. Believing that It is precisely because she is suited for one-to-many battles, we considered her to be the person that the other members of Squad Zero could entrust their fight to without hesitation, so we proposed this to Kubo-sensei from the anime side around the same time.
The visual for Senjumaru's Bankai itself was a completely original idea which we received from Kubo-sensei. The visual based on a giant loom and the depiction of its activation, abilities and techniques were also provided by Sensei through illustrated materials which he had drawn up for us. We then proceeded to develop a scenario based on that as a matter of course. We went through quite a number of drafts for the scene, but I believe it was an episode that was truly worth the effort. The scenario was finalized, and when it came time to consider how it could then be incorporated into a storyboard, we were fortunate to receive further guidance from Sensei on how to depict the scene. I'm not sure of the correct way to word this, but I believe we were able to deliver something with an impact which screams "This is BLEACH!" beyond what was imagined in the scenario. The enthusiasm of everyone involved is particularly evident.
A: Tite Kubo
If I were to choose one person with the given course of events, I'd also have thought it would be Senjumaru who would take responsibility for turning the tide of this battle, so when I heard from the anime side that they wanted to make Senjumaru the Zero Division character to perform Bankai, I sensed the depth of understanding the anime production team had for the work the moment they made that proposal without me even saying anything. I am very grateful. It was also interesting how, in the process leading up to her Bankai, they cleverly utilized the idea that being part of the Zero Division means they're ready to die. The way the seals of the four individuals were depicted is also great.
Section 5
THE BLEACH
22. The author's involvement as "general supervisor" continues into the second cour of this work. What are their thoughts on this production style?
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
Through our interactions and output of materials in the first cour, I suppose the feeling is "this is how we're going to do things" and there's a sense that Kubo-sensei's position as a staff member has solidified as we've progressed. In other words, it's like we've gotten even closer to Kubo-sensei…! What do you think, Kubo-sensei!?
As far as the anime side is concerned, there's a certain level of "familiarity" in a positive sense, and in addition to that, It seems like a style is emerging that encompasses a sense of pressure and a sense of purpose, and I feel like we've been able to establish a relationship where we can easily express our opinions and also share our concerns with each other. For example, when trying to animate "Getsuga Jūjishō" in a cool looking way, I asked sensei about the way Jūjishō should appear after we struggled with posing the two swords. In an anime-oriented mindset, when a character wields two swords, it tends to result in poses where the body opens up or where one sword is raised. Thinking, "that's different from the stance Ichigo from 'BLEACH' takes", we were able to create the current sequence precisely because we could consult with the author about what should be done. I received the following response: "Regarding Jūjishō, the vertical Getsuga generated from Zangetsu in the right hand is violently hit against the first Getsuga generated horizontally by Zangetsu in the left hand. At that moment, energy is infused from the vertical Getsuga into the horizontal one, forming a gigantic cross. It advances forward through the propulsive force of the vertical Getsuga. Therefore, his posture after its activation ends up in a pose where one foot is left heavily leaning inward." Taking that as a hint, we applied it to the visuals.
We've reached a point where we are able to comprehend Kubo-sensei's deep insights better, making it even easier to reflect them in the anime, and I'm sure if we dig deeper in this regard, Kubo-sensei will guide our ideas to even greater heights! There are some instances where we gain motivation like "let's thoroughly pour our hearts and souls into creating ideas that form the groundwork for that!" On the other hand, there are also times where we make a judgment call and say "let's try to ask Kubo-sensei about this from the get-go!" I think it was the second cour where that type of communication became a great deal easier. The third cour and beyond will also be very lively, so please look forward to it!
A: Tite Kubo
In a sense, drawing the rough draft for Senjumaru's battle scene was also a moment where I felt relief, I was able to convey everything I ever wanted to express, and I realized that it wouldn't be a hindrance to the team on the production side. The anime production team were able to make suggestions based on a thorough understanding of the original work, which motivated me as well. Director Taguchi said, "it's like we've gotten closer," but it's not even a question of closeness. After working through the first and second cours, I feel like I've become fully integrated as a member of the staff, so thank you for your continuous support!
Byakuya addresses individuals outside his family either by their last name or full name, so is there some reason why he calls Renji by his first name?
A606.
It's because Rukia called him by his first name.
Q607.
2024.04.15
In volume 35, chapter 313, there's a part where Nnoitra says in a flashback, "I want to be cut down...", but is that a scene where he was talking to Tesla rather than being a monologue to himself? If so, was Tesla the only one who knew about Nnoitra's wish (if that's the correct way to word it)? I love the flow of those scenes from the words in that flashback to the moment when Tesla collapses, and it's forever etched into my memory.
A607.
That's correct. He's speaking to Tesla.
Q608.
2024.04.15
I'd like to ask about the change of shape in the Zanpakutō belonging to the 5th Espada, Nnoitra. In the flashbacks, during the time he was 8th Espada, there was one crescent-shaped part, but later it increased to two. What is the primary cause behind this change of shape in his Zanpakutō? I'm thinking that it involves factors such as amplifying the amount of basic Reiatsu and changes to the mind and body through training, but what do you say?
A608.
It's a change in the quantity and inherent quality of his Reiatsu. An Arrancar's sword is their power itself, so changes in Reiatsu are likely to manifest in its shape.
BLEACH TYBW Anime Cour 2 Booklet: Behind the Scenes [Translation - Part 1]
Translated by @reikorun
Director's Note × Author's Eye
We pick out several points from all 13 episodes (#14 ~ #26) of the second cour. For each point, pay attention to the explanations by Director Tomohisa Taguchi and the perspective of the original creator and general supervisor, Tite Kubo!
Section 1
Start with Yhwach again
1. A baby being held. As that being, raised up by countless hands, grows and opens its eyes, cour 2 "The Separation" begins. (ep. #14)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
"Let's place the focus on the Sternritter for the second cour", from the early stages, this is what was decided among the staff. On top of that, in order to make a link with the first cour which began with Yhwach reciting the Kaiser Gesang, we thought "let's begin the sequence of events in cour 2 with him as well." In that case, that scene depicting his origin would be appropriate. In the original work, it was drawn in a manner which took a comprehensive view reminiscent of folklore, but I struggled with how to go about creating a similar impression in the anime. As a result, the visual expression became closer to an art film represented through images alone, without the use of any narration or dialogue at all.
A: Tite Kubo
From the moment I laid my eyes on the storyboard for the first time, I had a feeling that it was going to turn out really good. Regarding this scene, there were actually various changes made until we arrived at the final cut, and even the versions we didn't use were very interesting. During the dubbing session, the process of overlapping the collective "Yū, Ha, Vē, Ha" was also enjoyable to listen to.
2. In addition, there was a memorable scene where Yhwach's 'power' was portrayed through a visual representation. This is the scene where a 'shadow' extends from the throne as Yhwach falls asleep, leading to the appearance of Haschwalth. (ep. #18)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
The portrayal of that shadow was an idea I received from Kubo-sensei. In the original work, we were able to gain an insight into the power of Yhwach as well as the connection between Yhwach and Haschwalth through Haschwalth's words to Uryū, but since there was no concrete depiction in itself for the transfer of power, it lead to discussions where we considered that It would also become an element linking to the subsequent cour, so we thought “let's do that in the anime!”
A: Tite Kubo
At first, the manner in which the shadow emerged looked as if it were surging up from below, but viewing it from a choreography standpoint, I suggested that the shadow itself should appear in a sort of sliding manner, giving the impression that it had some mass to it. The transfer of power occurred while Yhwach was sleeping, so in order to preserve the nuance that the transfer to Haschwalth happened while he was in that state, I also had Haschwalth depicted standing with his eyes slightly lowered.
Section 2
Storytelling
3. In the second cour of 'BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War Arc', the war situation changes moment by moment due to the Sternritter invasion, and the outward appearance of the Soul Society also undergoes transformation. As a free-for-all breaks out in various places where enemies and allies intermingle in a state of chaos, the anime adds a scene where the newly appointed Captain-Commander, Kyōraku Shunsui, issues orders to each soldier. (ep. #14, #18)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
One component of that is our desire to include explanatory scenes and scenes where the narrative is refreshed so that the audience are not confused by the ever-changing situation of the war. Another component was our desire to depict the organization that is the 'Gotei 13', which includes Kyōraku who became the Captain-Commander, in a renewed light, and these components overlapped seamlessly.
As a result, I think we were able to depict his status as Captain-Commander inherited from Yamaji, as well as his work ethic. In combination with the scene depicted in the original work that evokes the essence of Kyoraku, i.e. the handing over of Soul Tickets to Tatsuki and the others in the Human World, I'm happy if we were able to successfully delve deeper into the characters.
A: Tite Kubo
It was a really nice scene with both the essence of Shunsui and the essence of a Captain-Commander coming through.
4. In addition to Kyōraku, the appearance of the other troops were added, including Vice-Captains. (ep. #16)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
While the scenario building sessions were moving forward, I realized that I also wanted to depict the Shinigami's point of view as they strive to fight back against the invasion and try to fulfill their duty to the Gotei. Rather than simply portraying the scene, we added a series of shots with the intention of showing the state of the Shinigami who remain unyielding even as the war situation worsens and they are gradually forced into a disadvantageous position.
A: Tite Kubo
Even in a fan service sense, I think the audience enjoyed being able to see a variety of characters in the anime.
5. With regard to the main character, Ichigo, extra scenes have been added, such as the manner in which he received training under Hyôsube Ichibei. (ep. #14 and others)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
As mentioned earlier, the foundational principle for the second cour is to place the main focus on the Sternritter, while that's true, 'BLEACH' is still the story of Kurosaki Ichigo, isn't it? There were some concerns that the number of episodes in which Ichigo does not appear in the anime may end up feeling longer than it was in the original work, so we came up with the idea of showing what Ichigo is doing at the present time. The knowledge that Ichigo was training at the Soul King Palace is also depicted in the manga, so I speculate that even though Kubo-sensei undoubtedly had a concept and an image in his head, perhaps he deliberately chose not to draw the specifics. We had the privilege of making suggestions and consulting with Kubo-sensei about how we would go about incorporating the event into the story; those scenes were the result. In a sense, it's to be expected, but we were able to receive a tremendous amount of material from Kubo-sensei, far more than what we expected…. It made us think, "Ichigo, that's what you were doing in such a place!?'' As a fan of the original work, I was delighted, and I also maintained the feeling that I needed to put all my effort into portraying it.
A: Tite Kubo
About the Irazu Sandō part, I didn't include it because if I tried to draw it in the manga, the scene depicting the agonizing ordeal would span across multiple pages and end up too long. I'm glad that it could be expressed in the anime~!
6. The stage upon which Ichigo undergoes his training, Irazu Sandō. A mysterious and beautiful sight, yet it is also a peculiar place where a solemn air, a stillness and a sense of awe all coexist. (ep. #14 and others)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
There's torii gates, a cobblestone pavement, shide (*zigzag-shaped paper streamers) adorning both sides…. If we hadn't received materials from Kubo-sensei, I don't think we would have been able to find our way to this point. Whilst enduring something which tries to push him away from the approach path, the more he walked, and the more he advanced, the heavier the wooden sword in Ichigo's right hand became. When he walks, he walks by moving his legs forward without letting his feet leave the ground. A lot of detailed images and ideas were provided, such as scenes of rain falling outside the path. This was then projected into anime visuals, and the Irazu Sandō came to a state of completion. I think this is a training ground packed with every element that is typical of BLEACH, down to the smallest detail, and that cannot be found in any other work. We've also incorporated an abundance of elements that will be connected to the third cour and onwards such as what happened to Ichigo during his training and the scenes he witnessed, so I would be happy if you could take another look.
A: Tite Kubo
Originally, the mental image I had was 'a sacred place, but at the same time, there is a sense that one is being cursed.' However, I thought that if I communicated this to the production team, the eeriness might end up being too pronounced, so I deliberately didn't mention it. The impression I had was that it was like an abandoned path. As a result, I think the team were able to capture that balance in the sense that it is a sacred yet potentially frightening place, and thus they were able to express it well.
Section 3
Design & Color Concepts
7. After the invasion by the Sternritter, the sky of the Seireitei was dyed red, and the squad barracks were transformed into unfamiliar, inorganic blue-white buildings. Director Taguchi's production plan is markedly reflected in those colors as well. (ep. #14)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
The main goal was to dramatically shift the setting away from Seireitei in a time of peace. Additionally, the upper part of the frame is red and the bottom is blue, which serve as completely opposite elements in terms of hue, so the aim of the production was to consider how the image could be made into something vivid. After the invasion, the Seireitei became perpetually uniform to that coloring, so there were some concerns about whether it would be acceptable as there are very few anime that employ a color scheme which breaks away from the norm to such a degree. However, we wanted to convey the might of Yhwach's power and also the sense that his power had indeed transformed the world. Furthermore, since blue is also the color of 'Quincy Reishi', I considered that perhaps this extreme staging effect in which the space itself ends up dyed in the colors of the Quincy side would make it easier for viewers to perceive the phenomenon where visually, it no longer feels like the Seireitei = the world of the Shinigami.
A: Tite Kubo
When I first received this proposal for the color scheme, I thought the expression might be too extreme, but the way Taguchi-san uses backgrounds is masterful, so I decided that I would try to leave it with him. I harbored some concern that colors of the characters may become difficult to distinguish, but that aspect was also rendered in a well balanced manner. At various points during meetings and dubbing sessions, I often get the feeling that Taguchi-san is someone who can clearly see the final visual outcome.
8. From the standpoint of color, the attire and laboratory, which Kurotsuchi Mayuri contrived as a countermeasure against the Sternritter lurking in the shadows, are also very interesting. (ep. #15 and others)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
Initially, the glowing Mayuri was only supposed to shine yellow. However, this time, Mayuri's lab itself also shines brightly, so it meant that when we tried to station him there, he ended up blending into the scenery quite a bit. While searching for a way to make Mayuri shine, an idea came from the color scheme designer Gōda-san: "How about a lighting method which shifts into a variety of colors like a gaming PC?" We adopted the idea thinking "it'll probably look great on screen!" We proposed the idea to Kubo-sensei, who readily approved, and it started to take form in the visuals. The colors continuously shifting midway through the plot is an interpretation that can only be represented in the anime, so I believe we were able to exhibit Mayuri's natural presence by using a different approach from the original work.
A: Tite Kubo
This was indeed an interesting portrayal that could only be done in the anime. It's also interesting that it was intentionally made to look like a moiré pattern. After all, this cannot be pulled off by any character other than Mayuri.
9. Mayuri's laboratory is designed to completely eliminate any shadow as a countermeasure against the Sternritter invasion. Evidently, it took a great deal of trouble to express this.
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
It took a lot of trial and error to figure out how to express 'no shadows' in the anime. The most significant factor in creating a three-dimensional effect in an illustration is the contrast of the shadows, isn't it? Given that it was necessary to reject that, we said "there is likely no other way to do this but to test an array of other patterns!" The art staff and I went through the process of trial and error a many number of times. As a result of taking into consideration various opinions that came up along the way, we translated them into the concept of 'creating gradation within the light', ultimately representing three-dimensionality.
A: Tite Kubo
When drawing it in the manga, the way I used to express the idea of 'glowing without shadows' is by erasing around the circumference of what I had drawn. I'm glad that I was able to have it portrayed in such a satisfying manner in the anime too.
10. Hirako Shinji's Bankai, "Sakashima Yokoshima Happōfusagari". A Bankai, which did not appear in the original work (※first appeared in the novelization), is made to enter the stage in the anime, therefore a great deal of enthusiasm has also been poured into its rendition. (ep. #16)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
The bud of Hirako's Bankai pedestal is formed by the petals narrowing inward when open, retaining their form to become the bud, however I thought that if we produced it with cel animation, the petals would inevitably lose their shape, rather, there's a high possibility that it wouldn't look like a rigid object. So, in order to show the precise movement of a rigid object, we deliberately used CG. At first, what I imagined for the texture was a brass-like luster, similar to the lotus flowers used in Buddhist altar fittings. We struggled while attempting to express the feeling of that material and searched for ways to depict it using CG surface reference / textures and such.
11. Many characters have made their Bankai debut in the original series. Ōtoribashi Rōjūrō's "Kinshara Butōdan", and Humanized Komamura Sajin's "Kokujō Tengen Myō'ō: Dangai Jōe" were also portrayed by utilizing 3DCG technology. (ep. #18, #17)
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
I think 'Kinshara Butōdan' managed to incorporate a finely tuned quality that doesn't look like it was made with cels, having said that, nor does it overly emphasize CG elements, rather it strikes a delicate balance between the two. Similarly, "Kokujō Tengen Myō'ō: Dangai Jōe" was also developed in 3D, I think we were able to well execute the way the gigantic body moves freely and abundantly as opposed to the challenges of producing it with cel animation, which is susceptible to making the movement appear choppy. In the story, there are various Bankai, but in terms of compatibility with 3DCG, rather than the type where it's just the sword changing, it's my opinion that Bankai transformations where the appearance changes completely or another entity emerges, is the kind that fits better from a direction perspective. As mentioned earlier, expressing it in 3D has the effect of altering the feel, so you can stress the distinctness and change in atmosphere brought about by performing Bankai. In a certain way, I suppose it's possible to convey a stronger sense of harnessing something that is not of this world. Therefore, from now on, I intend to continue requesting (to those in the field), that one doesn't adopt a cel animation look completely.
A: Tite Kubo
Both were really good. As Taguchi-san also mentioned, I wanted to avoid having the CG elements coming to the forefront in an odd manner. I think CG shines particularly during Bankai transformations that feature inorganic matter. The CG was skillfully utilized, especially in critical moments where traditional animation eventually tends to falter, like when Myō'ō comes in with a slashing attack, for instance, making it quite impressive to watch.
12. 3DCG is not the only technique utilized for showcasing Bankai. The skills of various staff members have also been brought together.
D: Tomohisa Taguchi
Even though I understood the principle behind it, figuring out how to visually represent Muguruma Kensei's Bankai "Tekken Tachikaze" in the anime, among other things, was challenging because how we'd go about expressing that is a different story. While the blades remain in contact with the target, it continues to explode infinitely. It creates the illusion that the punches being thrown are repeatedly landing tens of thousands of times without the arm ever being pulled back from the point of impact, doesn't it? We worked strenuously to express how immense the power of Kensei's Bankai is by doing things like deliberately adding cel style motion blur to make it look as though the opponent was being hit, aiming for a visual effect that makes it seem like he's trembling after being struck multiple times, and using an approach where we incorporated sound effects reminiscent of a drill used in road construction. In terms of his character and Bankai visualization, Rōjūrō is likened to an Opera, implementing theatrical staging such as the rapidly changing movement of his conductor's baton and the lighting. The music attached to the scene also became particularly important, director of audiography Nagasaki-san and re-recording mixer Hoshino-san fine-tuned it masterfully.
Izuru was quite cheerful during his student days, so why did his personality become gloomy?
A597.
Wait, he was cheerful…? Izuru has been gloomy since the minute he was born.
Q598.
2024.03.25
Captain Unohana named herself "Yachiru", but her current name "Retsu", is that originally her real name? Or is it that, after becoming "Yachiru", she named herself once again, this time to "Retsu"?
A598.
"Retsu" is the name given to her by her father.
Q599.
2024.03.25
After absorbing Ayon, Quilge's appearance steadily returns to its original form, but could this be because his Heiligenschein was destroyed by Ichigo, causing the abilities of his Vollständig to gradually wear off?
A599.
It's because his Heiligenschein was destroyed and thus his "Piskiel" collapsed. The essence of Quilge's "Piskiel" ability lies in the fact that he has the highest capacity for the capture and enslavement of Reishi among all Quincy.
No matter how many times I read the manga, I still don't quite understand the relationship between Nelliel and Nnoitra. I would like you to explain it in a way that even an idiot can understand.
A594.
Even if you don't understand, it doesn't mean you're stupid. Just enjoy it when you do understand.
Q595.
2024.03.18
If "Qualkreis" is broadly classified as a Quincy tactic, could it also be considered one of the Kirchenlied? Please let me know if there is any lore around this.
A595.
"Qualkreis" is one of the Quincy spells. "Kirchenlied" is not a classification, but a "chant" for "Sankt Zwinger".
Q596.
2024.03.18
During the Decisive Battle of Karakura Town, is it because of an illusion created by Kyōka Suigetsu that Mashiro's mask broke away without her noticing the depletion of her own Reiatsu?
A596.
It's because Mashiro is just that kind of person who would allow a slip-up like that to happen.
In his KaraBuri profile, it is noted that the food Hisagi dislikes is sea urchin, but where did he eat it? Or perhaps he came to dislike it because he was teased about the fact that his hairstyle resembles a sea urchin?
A591.
He ruined it for himself after eating the cheap sea urchin he could afford on his salary.
Q592.
2024.03.11
When Rangiku woke up from Hakufuku, she said "this sensation… it's Hakufuku…" I don't think there were many instances of fellow Shinigami fighting each other in Soul Society before Aizen's rebellion, so it seems unlikely she'd recognize the sensation of being put under Hakufuku. Could it be that she is acquainted with the feeling because Shinigami experience it during their time at the Shin'ō Academy in Kidō classes?
A592.
They experience this in class, but Rangiku also has the experience of falling victim to it.
Q593.
2024.03.11
In the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, I believe Captain Komamura takes on a human-like form through the Humanization Technique, however, did he suddenly turn into a wolf after the battle because the technique's time limit had expired? Or is it because Captain Komamura himself was consumed by a desire for revenge? If the reason is the latter, is it correct to assume that as long as Komamura had maintained good intentions such as "protecting Soul Society", he wouldn't have turned into a wolf?
A593.
You are pretty much correct. The "Humanization Technique" is a technique that allows him to maintain a human form while withstanding his great-grandfather's curse. The moment the purpose of Humanization becomes a selfish desire, the curse is forcibly fulfilled, and one transforms into a beast.
It would be strange to write a journal entry without touching on this matter, so I'll just take a moment to talk seriously.
Personally, I'm not experiencing feelings like loneliness or pain. To say I feel nothing at all would be wrong, but it's not as strong as I expected. This is the passing of someone whose works I've been reading since childhood, a senior colleague who was published in the same magazine as me, and also someone I am deeply influenced by, so it's a different sensation compared to how I would typically deal with death. But it's for this very reason that it feels like I'm not experiencing those emotions.
I've never really mentioned this to anyone, but since long ago, I've always believed that creating something is a way of extending one's own sensibilities and a way to extend one's own life. This is because I believe that in the same way, the author is not dead as long as the work exists. And I think that being able to truly embody this sensation is evidence of the sheer magnitude of the presence of the works which live on within me.
That's all. From the next post, I will carry on with my usual spirits.
I sincerely appreciate the work you've done with translation! Are you going to create a pinned masterpost linking all your translation posts? (I had started to do that myself with your posts and then I thought... that would make more sense for you to do!)
Thank you! I have already made a masterpost, it's linked on the left hand side of this blog, or at the top if you're on mobile. (I don't know if Tumblr pages show up on the mobile app version though.) Here's the direct link:
Collection of all my translation work for KlubOutside. Feel free to use, just give credit.
Q&A 1-100
Q&A 101-200
Q&A 201-300
Q&A 301-400
Q&A
How old is Riruka? (At the time of the Lost Agent of the Shinigami arc.)
A501.
She's 15 years old.
Q502.
2023.08.14
Sensei, when drawing manga, do you pretend to be the central character at that moment, before drawing? Or do you always maintain an objective perspective?
A502.
Rather than getting into the role of the character, I draw them as if they were right in front of me. When I try to fully embody a character, I feel that the range of the character narrows because there are limits to my own perception.
Q503.
2023.08.21
Why is it called "Karakura Town"?
A503.
The name comes from the mental image of an empty body with a missing soul (in other words, a corpse).
Q504.
2023.08.21
Among the Shinigami, there are some who hide the abilities of their own Zanpakutō, and there are some who remain silent about the fact that they can perform Bankai, but aren't there any rules that require them to declare this information?
A504.
Of course, they have an obligation to report on these things.
Q505.
2023.08.21
With respect to BLEACH, I get the impression that there are few explanations of the situation or a character's abilities which resemble a 'voice from above'. Is there something you're particular about with regard to this aspect?
A505.
I feel like it kills the immersion so I make an effort to avoid using it. Though, I don't particularly dislike this aspect when it comes to reading.
Q506.
2023.08.28
I love the Visored! While there may be differences in the balance of mastery or ineptitude over the Zankensoki, strictly speaking, who is the strongest among those eight when it comes to battle? If the ability of the Zanpakutō is direct attack type, I somehow feel that the user may not have an aptitude for Kidō too, so I would be glad if you could also tell me who is the most adept at Kidō, putting aside Hacchi!
A506.
If we take "adept at Kidō" to mean "a wide range of Kidō variations can be used" then after Haachi, it's Rose. As for who the strongest is, that's hard to say because it depends on the conditions.
Q507.
2023.08.28
How did the Visored previously make a living? Also, Hiyori has a part-time job, but are Love and Hacchi working too?
A507.
Hacchi collaborates with Tessai to develop Kidō goods for use in the Soul Society. Love works part-time at a second hand clothes store.
Q508.
2023.08.28
What specific tasks does Kubo-sensei do when taking on the role of "supervisor" for things like Brave Souls, movies, anime, etc.? For things like Brave Souls, do you check and make corrections to the designs that have been submitted to you?
A508.
The degree of supervision varies depending on the case, and that's the way it is for Brave Souls too.
Q509.
2023.09.04
It was explained within the story that Zaraki Kenpachi took a sword from a Shinigami, but if the Shinigami who had their sword taken were still alive and had achieved Shikai and Bankai, would they end up having a similar ability to Zaraki's Nozarashi?
A509.
That wouldn't happen. Abilities can be overwritten prior to Shikai acquisition (and depending on the person, even after its acquisition).
Q510.
2023.09.04
Rukia and Renji are a working couple, but did Ichika go to nursery school or a daycare center when she was very young, prior to entering the Shin'ō Academy?
A510.
Even though they both took childcare leave, several nannies dispatched by the Kuchiki clan were always stationed at the Abarai residence.
Q511.
2023.09.04
Is the marriage rate low for the Captains and Vice-Captains of the Gotei 13? Are there any Captain class Shinigami we don't know about who are actually married?
A511.
There is no one among the current members. I feel like there aren't many among that lot who seem capable of maintaining a married life….
Q512.
2023.09.11
Previously, in response to a question about the names of Hollows, you answered that "there is a person in charge of naming them", but do they name each Hollow one by one? Or are these names only given to Hollows who have murdered Shinigami, or caused a great deal of damage to the Human World
A512.
It's the latter. Other Hollows are assigned numbers and such based on what is captured.
Q513.
2023.09.11
About Unagiya Kaoru, he is the son of Unagiya Ikumi and who else? My personal prediction is that it's Tsukishima-san!
A513.
What a frightening prospect.
Q514.
2023.09.11
Are all the artwork which appear in Guidelines on KlubOutside drawn by Kubo-sensei while your assistants draw the background and other elements?
A514.
That's right. Characters, drawn lettering and effects are my job, while the background, motion lines and screentones are my assistant's job. I thought that if I continued drawing the motion lines by hand, I wouldn't be able to finish the whole piece so halfway through the series I decided to hand that over to my assistants.
Q515.
2023.09.18
It is mentioned that Urahara created his healing hot springs by imitating Kirinji's baths, but do these baths still remain in Soul Society? Or did he go to the Soul King Palace and analyze them?
A515.
A few still remain in a remote area of Rukongai.
Q516.
2023.09.18
Why does Bakudō #81. "Dankū" possess the anti-Hadō capability to "completely block Hadō numbered 89 and below"? Hadō is meant to be used by fellow Shinigami, in other words, by allies, therefore the anti-Hadō capability is presumably based on the premise of defending against attacks from allies. I speculate that in the past, Shinigami who were skilled in Hadō numbered 89 and below had turned hostile, so Dankū was created as a countermeasure to that.
A516.
That's a good guess.
Q517.
2023.09.18
Why does Orihime call Grimmjow "Grimmjow" but Ulquiorra "Ulquiorra-kun"?
A517.
That's because the atmosphere on their first meeting was not one where she was able to address Grimmjow with the -kun honorific. Though, I also think Ulquiorra is the same in that regard.
Q518.
2023.09.18
Please tell us the gender of Nianzol Weizol.
A518.
You'll know when you hear his voice in the anime, but he's a man.
Q519.
2023.09.25
Are the attack methods which utilize Gintō and the Medallion chant used by Ebern all techniques which are classified as "Kirchenlied"?
A519.
"Kirchenlied" is the equivalent of a Shinigami's "Kidō", therefore that is the case for most techniques which correspond to a spell.
Q520.
2023.09.25
Does Driscoll's Overkill become stronger based on the number of people killed from the time he received his Schrift to now? Or does the buff expire at the end of the battle or some other point?
A520.
The buff is removed by sleeping, eating, or loss of consciousness.
Q521.
2023.09.25
Are there any characters among the BLEACH cast who wear perfume, or has an image of their scent been decided upon in Kubo-sensei's mind? Recently, perfumes and fragrances that capture the image of one's favorite character or idol have been released regardless of whether they are fictional or real, so I wonder if we'll get some released out of the BLEACH universe as well.
A521.
I've been asked quite frequently to release perfume, so I'm starting to think it might be nice to do so. I don't use perfumes but sometimes I'll buy them when I want the bottle….
Q522.
2023.10.02
Nimaiya Ōetsu makes the Asauchi, but did he create them with Shikai and Bankai in mind from the very outset? Or did he realize that the shape and properties of the swords changed with each individual as they used it, and that phenomenon was then given the name Shikai and Bankai by the Monk?
A522.
That is the correct order of events.
Q523.
2023.10.02
Shishigawara-kun's Fullbring "Jackpot Knuckle" has a characteristic where the probability of hitting the jackpot ends up decreasing with continuous use, but will the probability of a jackpot be restored once it has already been decreased? If it does, I would also like to know what the conditions are.
A523.
There is a gradual recovery from misfortune (taking damage, etc.) Full recovery occurs when crossing over to the next day at midnight.
Q524.
2023.10.02
When did Hirako Shinji get his tongue pierced? It wasn't pierced during The Past arc, was it…?
A524.
I always forget to draw it, so I may not even include it anymore.
Q525.
2023.10.09
Is the hierarchy of strength for the Bambies: Liltotto > Giselle > Meninas > Bambi > Candice?
A525.
If they engage in battle with Blut, then that's probably the order. If it's a bare-handed fight then it's: Liltotto → Meninas → Candice → Gigi → Bambi.
Q526.
2023.10.09
Vice-Captain Madarame comes from a distinguished family, but what about 3rd seat Ayasegawa?
A526.
Yumichika was an abandoned child from Rukongai.
Q527.
2023.10.09
When I look at Rickenbacker, I get a buddy-like vibe and at the same time a faint sense of some maternal quality, but do Dragons even have things like gender?
A527.
They do. By the way, Rickenbacker is male.
Q528.
2023.10.16
The Kōtotsu was completely destroyed by Aizen, but after that, didn't any problems arise within the Dangai? Are there multiple Kōtotsu, or perhaps it was restored through a self-purification function or something?
A528.
It will be restored within the next seven days.
Q529.
2023.10.16
Urahara-san runs a small-time candy shop in the Human World, but is there some specific reason why he chose to open up a candy shop?
A529.
It's because Kisuke thought that candy shops were the best in that he could open and close the shop as he pleases, and even if he stocks strange items, it's harder to suspect anything is out of the ordinary.
Q530.
2023.10.16
Will there not be a BLEACH themed pachinko machine released? I'm just allowing myself to imagine that the staging effects and so on would be so fun, LOL.
A530.
There are no such plans, but the staging aspect certainly sounds entertaining. ×[1]
Q531.
2023.10.23
When Ichigo wears his sword, he carries Zangetsu on his back, but how is it held in place?
A531.
The sash on the hilt is wrapped around the chain along with the blade.
Q532.
2023.10.23
Is Yukio unmarried in the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc?
A532.
He's unmarried. It doesn't seem very likely that he'll marry….
Q533.
2023.10.23
When I was looking at the art of BLEACH, I got the impression of ballet movements, like the way in which characters use the tips of their toes and the lower half of their bodies. Sensei, do you ever watch ballet?
A533.
I sometimes watch Lausanne on TV, but I'm not very familiar with it. If anything, I suppose the sharp-tongued humor is the thing that I find interesting to watch.
Q534.
2023.10.30
Kotetsu Kiyone and Kotsubaki Sentarō share the same birthday, are they twins related by blood?
A534.
They're unrelated, but every year, they were made to sit side-by-side by Ukitake and celebrate their birthdays together.
Q535.
2023.10.30
How do Arrancar acquire a Zanpakutō? Do their broken mask pieces transform into Zanpakutō after they become Arrancar?
A535.
I'll tell you because I don't particularly feel like drawing it, but the torn part of the mask becomes the sword. So you are correct.
Q536.
2023.10.30
During the Quincy invasion, Mayuri modified his room and clothes to make them glow so that they wouldn't cast shadows, but wouldn't a shadow be created in Nemu's cleavage if left like that? This is a serious question.
A536.
Now that you mention it, that's true…. I should have placed a glow stick or something between her breasts.
Q537.
2023.11.06
How did you feel when BLEACH was parodied in Gintama?
A537.
When we first met, I was the one who told Sorachi-san "you can do whatever you want"…. Yet, he still apologized to me.
Q538.
2023.11.06
Is Hikifune Kirio-san's Tree of Life based on a similar principle to Kidō?
A538.
It's similar, but since it can only be used by one individual, I guess it's something closer to Ganju's Seppa….
Q539.
2023.11.06
Findorr Calius adjusted his own strength by breaking his mask, but is it also possible to restore his broken mask and strength back to their original state.
A539.
It's possible. Even if it's left alone, it will gradually return to its original state. It's kind of like an injury.
Q540.
2023.11.13
My prized possession is a copy of KaraBuri+ which I bought when I was in the 6th or 5th grade. Would you consider composing something like another official spin-off that is drawn in a light-hearted and humorous manner? I'd even like to see something similar to a Hueco Mundo version of KaraBuri!
A540.
If someone else were to draw something amusing, I'd also like to see it.
Q541.
2023.11.13
I have a question about Ayon and Orihime's abilities! After creating Ayon, if the arms of Apacci and the others were healed via Orihime's powers, could something like an 'Ayon duplication bug' occur? If the arms of the three individuals who create Ayon are restored through Orihime's abilities, would Ayon also disappear? It's just a hypothetical scenario, but I'm intrigued.
A541.
If the bodies of Apacci and co. can endure the rapid continuous regeneration process, a duplication bug is possible.
Q542.
2023.11.13
I was curious about the differences in size between Minazuki's first appearance, published in volume 18, and the time they landed on Sōkyoku Hill, published in volume 21. Can Minazuki's size be changed at will? Or did they become smaller as a result of the lifesaving measures Unohana gave Hitsugaya and Hinamori at the Seijōtōkyorin? (*The enclave where the Central 46 reside.)
A542.
The size can vary considerably. The smallest size is around the size of a puppy.
Q543.
2023.11.20
I totally want the shoes that Rabu is wearing in the new artwork (color version) from the art exhibition. They're exceedingly stylish, are there any plans to turn them into merch in the future!!!!?
A543.
I love shoes, so I'd be happy if merchandise in the form of shoes that a character is seen wearing could be sold, but I wonder if that can happen.
Q544.
2023.11.20
Quilge Opie used Ransōtengai, but no other Quincy were seen utilizing this technique. Is this simply because Quilge Opie has both the talent and understanding, and has therefore mastered Ransōtengai?
A544.
That's right. Quilge is the combat instructor of the Sternritter, and Quilge's students can also be found among the current Wörtlich.
Q545.
2023.11.20
Gin's Bankai, Kamishini no Yari, had the ability to leave a piece of the sword within the body of his opponent, and then dissolve and break down cells with the poison inside the sword, but will the part that was lost through this process never return to its original state again just like other Bankai? Also, assuming it doesn't return, if this ability is used frequently, will the blade eventually be reduced to nothing meaning his Bankai is rendered unusable?
A545.
The part left inside the body is made of poison, and since the poison is a secretion of the sword, it will return to its original state after a certain amount of time.
Q546.
2023.11.27
Each Division among the Gotei 13 has its own Squad Flower and a set meaning within Hanakotoba (*the Japanese language of flowers), but are there opportunities to study Hanakotoba as part of a Shinigami's cultivation at the Academy, for instance? (I was curious because there was a scene in chapter 323 where Kira talked about the 3rd Division's Squad Flower.)
A546.
They learn about the Squad Flowers, but Izuru seems to be well-acquainted with things like Hanakotoba in a general sense.
Q547.
2023.11.27
Are there any characters that you wanted to present as enemies even though they are allies, and are there any characters where the reverse is true?
A547.
There isn't any. Each character can only come to fit into their role because of the relationship they have with those around them.
Q548.
2023.11.27
Before the establishment of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute, was there no research institution in Soul Society?
A548.
At one point, there was a group who, though unofficial, were close in that regard (in the sense that they created things). That group disappeared and there was a period of time where no similar organization existed. What was formally established after that is the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. Mayuri belonged to the first group. Senjumaru was their leader.
Q549.
2023.12.04
It is explained in the manga that Lloyd R, the younger brother, can imitate physical likeness and memories, but why is he able to use Yhwach's abilities and weapons? Please tell us if he inherited his elder brother's ability, or if Yhwach granted him some of his own power, or perhaps there is some other reason?
A549.
Each Lloyd brother can either 'perfectly' copy memories, or 'perfectly' copy powers respectively, any aspect outside of that can be copied on a scale of 70-80%. This is because being able to copy only memories or only powers is of little use.
Q550.
2023.12.04
Do you have a PS5?
A550.
I don't have one.
Q551.
2023.12.04
What are the future plans for the floor of the 9th Division barracks which Mayuri destroyed with his eye beam in the one-shot? Will Hisagi and Kensei pay for the repairs?
A551.
They'll submit the bill to the 12th Division, and if that does work, they'll submit the bill to the 1st Division, and if that still doesn't work, then one way or another Shūhei will probably end up paying for it.
Q552.
2023.12.11
Who is the President of the Shinigami Women's Association by the time of the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc? I think the President is Lisa and the Supervising Chairwoman is Isane….
A552.
The President is Rangiku and the Chairwoman is Yoruichi. By the way, Soifon calls herself Vice-Chairwoman without asking anyone.
Q553.
2023.12.11
Is the aspect of death governed by the Espada the same for different people, as long as they have the same number, like Harribel and Nelliel, for instance? If it's different, I'd like to know what it was for Nelliel when she was an Espada!
A553.
It's the same. Nelliel is also "sacrifice".
Q554.
2023.12.11
Q: Does sensei have an ability to sense the supernatural?
Q: When I read Bleach for the first time, I allowed myself to think “the author definitely has a sixth sense!" But do you really?
A554.
I don't. But I've been told a few times "you must have a sixth sense, for sure!" But, I don't.
Q555.
2023.12.18
Thank you for the wonderful posters at the art exhibition. I bought both the A and B collection. If the posters will be expanded on in the future, will the designs from the Shibuya poster takeover be made into merch? It was super cool and I was walking around Shibuya at the time while becoming all the more proud that BLEACH is my favorite manga. If there is even the slightest possibility, please consider it...!!
A555.
I like those posters too, so I'm hoping they'll sell well in the FC.
Q556.
2023.12.18
Does the blade grow as a Zanpakutō develops?
A556.
The length of an Asauchi does not change, however when Shikai is used it will change in accordance with its development.
Q557.
2023.12.18
Is there some special relationship between the Komamura family and the Shihōin clan in BLEACH given that they are dogs and cats?
A557.
"Komamura" is the surname given to him when he was taken in by Genryūsai, it is not associated with his family lineage.
Q558.
2023.12.25
Were Yumichika and Yachiru's hair ornaments (or other accessories) made by Ikkaku?
A558.
Yachiru's hair ornament is handcrafted by Ikkaku. Yumichika bought his accessories himself.
Q559.
2023.12.25
Did Mizuiro's parents pay for his high school tuition?
A559.
It was paid for with child-support payments from his father.
Q560.
2023.12.25
Does the position of Substitute Shinigami come without compensation? Do you gain some sort of reward? Ichigo is a high school student and doesn't seem the type to accept rewards as far as his personality is concerned, but I'm curious if there has ever been any offer of reward from the Gotei! I think other Shinigami fight while receiving a salary and incentives as part of their job, so I'd like to know how the Gotei's substitute positions are handled.
A560.
In the beginning, the position was without reward. After receiving the Substitute Badge, it's now come to be that a reward will be deposited within a Seireitei account. Ichigo hasn't been informed though.
Q561.
2024.01.01
Will sensei be eating osechi* during New Year's? (*Assortment of traditional New Year foods.)
A561.
I eat it every year. Currently, I'm in the process of searching for osechi that suits my tastes. After all, you only get one chance a year. If only we had a New Year holiday like three times a year.
Q562.
2024.01.01
When Don Kanonji first appeared, he was performing an exorcism at an abandoned hospital, was it Ishida who tried to stop Kanonji's exorcism at the beginning?
A562.
Yes.
Q563.
2024.01.01
I noticed something in the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc section of BLEACH EX. the "Taka" (*hawk) which came out with Rindō Atau's Zanpakutō ability was "Washi" (*eagle) in the rough draft, right? What was the reason for the change? Is it because the hawk seems faster…?
A563.
I believe this was because eagle in sign language is the same as hawk and was derived from hawk to begin with, and also because hawks have a stronger Japanese image.
Q564.
2024.01.08
Ayon ended up being defeated both times in the story, but let's assume he wasn't defeated, would he continue to exist forever…? If so, that would be awfully frightening. I'm curious about what he got up to when summoned in the past!
A564.
After a short while, he will self-destruct, and not long after that, the arms of Apacci and the others will grow back.
Q565.
2024.01.08
Due to the actions of PePe Waccabrada, Shūhei and Byakuya fought each other, but Byakuya behaved as if he were trying to avoid hurting Shūhei as much as possible. Personally, I think that Byakuya before he met Ichigo would have killed Shūhei. It might be presumptuous of me to talk about Byakuya like I understand him, but as I read on, I feel that Byakuya's views and personality have changed. What do you think?
A565.
I think you're right.
Q566.
2024.01.08
What time does sensei wake up every morning?
A566.
I've been quite busy lately, so ten o'clock. I can't even watch Love It! in real time anymore….
Q567.
2024.01.15
Was it because her five older brothers had passed away that Soi Fon succeeded as the head of Fon family? Or is there some kind of custom where a woman always becomes the head in the Fon family like a "queen bee".
A567.
The strongest person in that generation becomes the head of the family, regardless of gender.
Q568.
2024.01.15
I would like to know the Shikai abilities of the three seated officers of the 3rd Division who were instantly killed by Bazz-B in volume 56!
A568.
Those abilities which never got a chance to be showcased are a secret because I may use them somewhere else.
Q569.
2024.01.15
Kubo-sensei, you mentioned that you draw illustrations on the larger iPad pro, so I also want to try an iPad for the first time, but looking back do you ever feel like… there is something about it that could have been done better? Additionally, I would like to hear about the types of brushes you use in Clip Studio Paint when line drawing and when adding color, and also how you divide your drawing into layers!!!!
A569.
I hope it becomes lighter. As for pens, I often use a pen called Kasure Kashi (*machine translated as “Casper pen” in Clip Studio) and for brushes I use one called Muk01. I separate the layers depending on my mood.
Q570.
2024.01.22
I would like to know the name of the technique that was used when Kirinji Tenjirō got behind Soi Fon. Although she's supposed to have top-class speed among the Gotei 13, Soi Fon couldn't read his movements at all, thinking "what was that move just now…!" Is this because the Hohō used by Kirinji Tenjirō was not "Shunpo"?
A570.
It's the same Shunpo. Shunpo consists of a three stage process: Joritsu, Bakkyaku and Shunpo. Tenjirō is incredibly skilled at the second stage, "Bakkyaku", which allows him to achieve unbelievable speeds. ×[2]
Q571.
2024.01.22
Can't Orihime heal Izuru's body?
A571.
She may be able to heal him, but Izuru probably likes it that way….
Q572.
2024.01.22
Did sensei have any involvement in selecting the songs and characters for Burikon: Bleach Concept Covers? Also, is there one in particular that you liked among the Burikon covers?
A572.
I wasn't involved at all, but I remember liking Mayuri and Nemu's part.
Q573.
2024.01.29
What material is the Substitute Shinigami Badge made of? I want to make one myself as perfectly as I possibly can, so please tell me what it would look like in reality!
A573.
The Substitute's Badge is made of metal. Iron would be too heavy for something of that size, so maybe aluminum would be a closer fit…?
Q574.
2024.01.29
Does Ise Nanao wear glasses because her eyesight has deteriorated by reading too many books? Or is it that the Ise clan are by nature a family with poor eyesight?
A574.
It's a family with poor eyesight.
Q575.
2024.01.29
In volume 62, Urahara-san mentioned that the Quincy are "a race that have no 'antibodies' at all to defend against Hollows." However, Ishida Uryū was at the receiving end of Fornicarás's abilities during his battle with Szayelaporro, and he had his lower arm torn off by Ulquiorra. Was this at a level that is not applicable to the "erosion" that Urahara-san talks about? Or is Uryū special?
A575.
Uryū is special.
Q576.
2024.02.05
Why does Akon have horns on his head?
A576.
They're implants (transdermal implants).
Q577.
2024.02.05
Dordoni, Cirucci, Luppi and Chuhlhourne were all revived at the hands of Mayuri-sama, but while the former three had suture marks on their faces, Chuhlhourne is the only one who had suture marks on his abdomen, is this perhaps the benevolence of Mayuri-sama?
A577.
I too looked at and thought "who knew Mayuri could be so kind!"
Q578.
2024.02.05
In the scene where Ichigo is taught the Final Getsuga Tenshō by Tensa Zangetsu, Ichigo is told "you feared taking on this form in which your mind is suppressed by your own destructive impulses, and as a result you've even become incapable of properly Hollowfying." However, if he were able to Hollowfy properly, would he have been able to manifest the mask with horns that covered his entire face as shown in the battle against Ulquiorra?
A578.
If he were able to "properly" Hollowfy, then he would take on that form.
Q579.
2024.02.12
While in the Dangai, what mechanism did Ulquiorra use to show Orihime the situation in the Human World as images via Garganta?
A579.
There's no lore about this at all!! What kind of system is it!? Ulquiorra!!?
Q580.
2024.02.12
Among the spirits of her Shun Shun Rikka, the ability belonging to Orihime, Tsubaki is the only one who is rebellious towards his master. Is that a reaction stemming from Orihime's dislike of conflict and hurting others given her personality? Tsubaki is her only means of attack, but Orihime does not want to use him too actively. Deep down, she hesitates (fears) to attack her opponent, that is, she unconsciously rejects her means of attack, which contradicts the reason for Tsubaki's existence, and I thought for a moment that maybe he was irritated by that fact.
A580.
That's correct. How impressive, I didn't expect someone to read so deeply into Rikka like this.
Q581.
2024.02.12
Regarding Orihime's ability, Shun Shun Rikka: Sōten Kisshun, it is weak at recovering Reiryoku because Sōten Kisshun is based on the rejection of events and Orihime rejects the form of a wounded individual, in other words, the underlying force is her desire to restore their condition to its original state, to make it out as though it never happened, could another reason be that it's difficult for her to recognize how much intangible Reiryoku needs to be recovered? Is it that Shun Shun Rikka's abilities come from Orihime's own feelings of rejection and denial, or to put it another way, does it stem from wanting things to be a certain way?
A581.
You are more or less correct. The things that can be restored with Sōten Kisshun are, for the most part, what is visible to the eyes and what can be touched with the hands.
Q582.
2024.02.19
Kubo-sensei, is there a character in BLEACH that you consider to be closest to you in terms of your own personality?
A582.
There isn't. No one that I draw resembles me!
Q583.
2024.02.19
When Kūkaku sends Ichigo to the Soul King Palace in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, she appears to be aware of the connection between Ichigo and Isshin saying "even if it means making uncle sad." Did Kūkaku somehow sense this, or was there some interaction between her and the Shiba clan or Shinigami she was acquainted with in places that are not depicted within the story, after the situation with Aizen was resolved, for instance?
A583.
Kūkaku has been aware of this through Ichigo's Reiatsu since the beginning (volume 9). That's why she let Ganju go with him. Of course, she also received a message from Kisuke at a later time.
Q584.
2024.02.19
The masks of Loly Aivirrne and Menoly Mallia appear to have a design that forms a pair with the left and right eyes, perhaps they are Arrancar with a relationship like that of twin sisters?
A584.
Although these two are not sisters, they have taken a sisterly vow and shaved down their masks in order to resemble each other.
Q585.
2024.02.26
I believe there are works which publish illustrations drawn by readers in the tankōbon of the manga. Bleach didn't have that, but is it that you have a certain preference towards your own tankōbon, Kubo-sensei?
A585.
As a child, I was the type of kid who thought "I didn't buy this to see drawings from readers" when looking at the illustration segment of the manga I used to read, so I didn't do it with my own manga. However, I have kept all the illustrations that were sent to me during the series.
Q586.
2024.02.26
The Captains of the Zero Division are each given one of the five cities atop the Zeroban Riden (*the disc-like structures which are their estates), but if the number of Zero Division captains increased, will a new Zeroban Riden be added? Or is the capacity for Captains limited to 5 individuals in accordance with the number of Zeroban Riden?
A586.
The upper limit is 5 people.
Q587.
2024.02.26
What does the "chain" in Tensa Zangetsu (*Heavenly Chain Slaying Moon) represent? Is it the Chain of Fate?
A587.
"Tensa" means "to lock the heavens", and it's a chain used to link and secure two things together.
Q588.
2024.03.04
What material is the black part of Riruka's clothes made of?
A588.
It's stretch cotton.
Q589.
2024.03.04
I would like to know the nationality of the Sternritter!!!
A589.
In order to avoid a fixed nationality for the group as a whole, I name them in a way which appears to contain spellings from various regions.
Q590.
2024.03.04
In what way did Yamamoto and Unohana come to meet?
A590.
I might draw it someday, so it's a secret.
Q591.
2024.03.11
In his KaraBuri profile, it is noted that the food Hisagi dislikes is sea urchin, but where did he eat it? Or perhaps he came to dislike it because he was teased about the fact that his hairstyle resembles a sea urchin?
A591.
He ruined it for himself after eating the cheap sea urchin he could afford on his salary.
Q592.
2024.03.11
When Rangiku woke up from Hakufuku, she said "this sensation… it's Hakufuku…" I don't think there were many instances of fellow Shinigami fighting each other in Soul Society before Aizen's rebellion, so it seems unlikely she'd recognize the sensation of being put under Hakufuku. Could it be that she is acquainted with the feeling because Shinigami experience it during their time at the Shin'ō Academy in Kidō classes?
A592.
They experience this in class, but Rangiku also has the experience of falling victim to it.
Q593.
2024.03.11
In the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, I believe Captain Komamura takes on a human-like form through the Humanization Technique, however, did he suddenly turn into a wolf after the battle because the technique's time limit had expired? Or is it because Captain Komamura himself was consumed by a desire for revenge? If the reason is the latter, is it correct to assume that as long as Komamura had maintained good intentions such as "protecting Soul Society", he wouldn't have turned into a wolf?
A593.
You are pretty much correct. The "Humanization Technique" is a technique that allows him to maintain a human form while withstanding his great-grandfather's curse. The moment the purpose of Humanization becomes a selfish desire, the curse is forcibly fulfilled, and one transforms into a beast.
Q594.
2024.03.18
No matter how many times I read the manga, I still don't quite understand the relationship between Nelliel and Nnoitra. I would like you to explain it in a way that even an idiot can understand.
A594.
Even if you don't understand, it doesn't mean you're stupid. Just enjoy it when you do understand.
Q595.
2024.03.18
If "Qualkreis" is broadly classified as a Quincy tactic, could it also be considered one of the Kirchenlied? Please let me know if there is any lore around this.
A595.
"Qualkreis" is one of the Quincy spells. "Kirchenlied" is not a classification, but a "chant" for "Sankt Zwinger".
Q596.
2024.03.18
During the Decisive Battle of Karakura Town, is it because of an illusion created by Kyōka Suigetsu that Mashiro's mask broke away without her noticing the depletion of her own Reiatsu?
A596.
It's because Mashiro is just that kind of person who would allow a slip-up like that to happen.
Q597.
2024.03.25
Izuru was quite cheerful during his student days, so why did his personality become gloomy?
A597.
Wait, he was cheerful…? Izuru has been gloomy since the minute he was born.
Q598.
2024.03.25
Captain Unohana named herself "Yachiru", but her current name "Retsu", is that originally her real name? Or is it that, after becoming "Yachiru", she named herself once again, this time to "Retsu"?
A598.
"Retsu" is the name given to her by her father.
Q599.
2024.03.25
After absorbing Ayon, Quilge's appearance steadily returns to its original form, but could this be because his Heiligenschein was destroyed by Ichigo, causing the abilities of his Vollständig to gradually wear off?
A599.
It's because his Heiligenschein was destroyed and thus his "Piskiel" collapsed. The essence of Quilge's "Piskiel" ability lies in the fact that he has the highest capacity for the capture and enslavement of Reishi among all Quincy.
Q600.
2024.04.01
I'm debating whether or not I should have my son take lessons in English conversation. Is sensei able to speak English?
A600.
Since being able to speak English is an advantage, please allow him to learn it. I can't speak it myself, though.
Translation Footnotes:
×1. Staging in this context means staging of the frenzied screen/sound effects of the roulette for stirring up the gambling spirit of players.
×2. These are terms which appear to be coined by Kubo: 序立(じょりつ) - "Joritsu" means "opening stance". 抜脚(ばっきゃく) - "Bakkyaku" means "to draw out one's leg", and judging by the way we use 抜 in other terms, it alludes momentum that is created suddenly and rapidly by lifting or drawing out one's leg from the starting position. For example: the word Battōjutsu (抜刀術) - “the art of drawing out one's sword”, that is, getting the sword into action as quickly as possible in response to a sudden attack or some other situation which requires the rapid drawing of one's sword. I believe Bakkyaku is a similar concept except in the context of Hohō as opposed to swords.
I'd like to ask you a question about BTW! Given that "Bruno" means "bull" (*buru = bull in Japanese) and the crest which represents "The Inks" is also reminiscent of Taurus, are you perhaps using the zodiac constellations as a reference for the names of characters?
A401.
No, that's not the inspiration. I didn't even consider the "bull" in "Bruno"…. Now that you've brought it up, it does appear as though I used that as source material, LOL.
Q402.
2022.10.31
It is said that the Gotei 13 constitutes just under 3000 people, but with this many Shinigami, is it possible that this can result in Zanpakutō with the same names? Also, will it ever have the same name as a Zanpakutō that existed in the past?
A402.
No two Zanpakutō can ever hold the same name in the same era. It may, however, share the same name as a Zanpakutō from the past.
Q403.
2022.10.31
What is the name of Ryūken's mother?
A403.
I have passed on background details to anime staff so depending on the composition of the story, it may appear in the anime.
Q404.
2022.10.31
Do you have a favorite character among the Dragon Quest heroines? I like Jessica.
A404.
I guess the childhood friend from Dragon Quest 4….
Q405.
2022.11.07
I have a question. Is the horizontal line running across Hisagi's nose a tattoo or tape…? In the anime, it was drawn to look very tape-like, but the one Kubo-sensei drew in color on the cover of the novel, for instance, is expressed with the same coloring as his "69" tattoo, so personally I assumed the anime turned it into something that was tape-like for a certain reason, but is it in fact a tattoo?
A405.
Did it really end up looking like tape…? It's a tattoo.
Q406.
2022.11.07
What is your favorite traditional Japanese sweet? Alternatively maybe I can ask, do you prefer sweet or salty?
A406.
I like sweet foods more, and I like almost all traditional Japanese confectionery made with Tsubuan (*chunky sweet red bean paste).
Q407.
2022.11.07
Will Ichika's Zanpakutō turn out to be Mirokumaru, the same one owned by Senna?
A407.
That won't happen. They're two different people and Mirokumaru isn't a name I came up with.
Q408.
2022.11.14
The certificate of residence bonus was wonderful! I'm a huge fan of the actual contents of course, but the red seal which secured the envelope and the "KOS" design representing the name of this fanclub is so cool.
A408.
This was Ishino-san's design proposal. Isn't it great?
Q409.
2022.11.14
About the Shiba siblings and Ichigo, are they cousins?
A409.
That's how it is.
Q410.
2022.11.14
The Granz brothers share the same birthday, height and weight, but are they considered twins?
A410.
They are.
Q411.
2022.11.21
What kind of dog is Uni-chan?
A411.
Pomeranian.
Q412.
2022.11.21
I would like to learn more about the mechanics of Shunpo. Unlike teleportation, if you come under attack while moving, will the attack successfully land?
A412.
If it can keep up with the movement speed, the attack will land.
Q413.
2022.11.21
In volumes 15 and 32, Hitsugaya Tōshirō is seen making fun of Hinamori, calling her "bedwetter Momo", I believe this indicates that he's old enough to remember Hinamori from her early childhood. In the general overview of the Gotei 13 from "KaraBuri+", it's mentioned that his current concerns include the sluggish rate of his growth. Furthermore, in volume 26, Hinamori says "I don't need to be given advice about growing by Hitsugaya-kun!!" Judging by this, it seems that Hitsugaya has been experiencing a longer period of halted physical growth compared to others, however is it possible that he is older than Hinamori?
A413.
He's older.
Q414.
2022.11.28
I like the atmosphere of Soul Society's architecture. Are there any places you used as reference?
A414.
Other than Louis Kahn and Oscar Niemeyer which I mentioned in a previous Q&A, I like Brutalist architecture and have been aided by, or rather, influenced by the Royal National Theater in England, Corbusier's chapel in Ronchamp and the Trinity Church in Vienna to name just a few. Additionally, I also like the residence of Luis Barragán.
Q415.
2022.11.28
In chapter 302 of volume 34, "Pride on the Blade", specifically on the double page spread where Byakuya says "because you aimed your blade at my pride", Rukia is drawn pressing a sword against her own neck through Zommari's ability. However, Rukia is seen clasping Senbonzakura rather than her own sword, a fact that has no direct relevance to the contents of the main storyline. Did Kubo-sensei draw it that way because you wanted to convey something?
A415.
I commented on this at the BLEACH exhibition.
Q416.
2022.11.28
Since assuming the role of Captain, did none of Rukia's comrades tease her by calling her "Captain Abarai"? I'm curious if she's being called "Captain" in the first place, considering that the nickname "Kuchiki" has become commonplace among those around her.
A416.
Shunsui immediately began addressing her as "Captain", so calling her by the title of “Captain” very quickly caught on among everyone else. Shunsui has always been the type that would make an effort to immediately call a newly appointed Captain by their title and help them get used to the new environment quickly.
Q417.
2022.12.05
Sensei, is there a character from BLEACH that you would like to see made into a figurine, or do you have a favorite among those that already exist?
A417.
I think it would be great if a figurine of a scantily clad female character was released. If they have big boobs then anyone will do.
Q418.
2022.12.05
The following information has been recorded on Wikipedia regarding Ichigo's Zangetsu after the conclusion of the series:
"On top of being able to fight by choosing between single blade style and dual blade style while in Shikai (through changes to Reiatsu), while in Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu can be used in either a katana state (a combination of Tensa Zangetsu from the beginning and middle stages of the series), or in a large sword state (after special training with Urahara Kisuke and Hyōsube Ichibē of the Zero Division respectively)." Is this accurate?
A418.
Let's refer to official source material, not the wiki.
Q419.
2022.12.05
In the scene where Kenpachi meets Yachiru, Zaraki asks her "where did you come from?" Yachiru touches Zaraki's Zanpakutō, was this foreshadowing that Yachiru = Nozarashi?
A419.
Since I've already talked about Yachiru here, I can give you an answer: yes, you are correct.
Q420.
2022.12.12
Regarding the advertising slogans on the character cover art at the time of the Jump magazine publication, in addition to the catchphrases which accompanied the Captain & Vice-Captain cover art illustrations that were printed in the art book "All Colour But The Black" and the Jump special issues, are they created by Kubo-sensei rather than the editor? Are there also any other slogans devised by Kubo-sensei that were not included in said cases?
A420.
My editor writes all the slogans. The editor who did the work around the Captain and Vice Captain title pages, is Nakano-san who is currently the editor-in-chief of Jump.
Q421.
2022.12.12
Please tell us the gender of both Senjumaru and Nianzol.
A421.
Senjumaru is a woman and Nianzol is a man.
Q422.
2022.12.12
Where in the body is the location of the "Saketsu" and "Hakusui", often referred to as "the heart of a Shinigami"?
A422.
In the context of acupuncture points, I imagine that the Saketsu is the equivalent of "Jade Hall", and Hakusui is around the "Heavenly Pivot". ×[1]
Q423.
2022.12.19
What was the most stressful event in your life?
A423.
I guess it was when I first appeared on stage at Jump Festa. It was before the series had an anime adaptation, so there were only three of us: myself, my editor, and the female host, it was tough. I think it was at this time that I did my first ever autograph session.
Q424.
2022.12.19
If anything, it always bothered me to no end that there was a certain air about the BLEACH anime where it appears to be trying to make it look as though Ichigo and Rukia were in love with each other. How much did you tell the anime staff about your vision for the final landing spot of the original work?
A424.
I didn't tell them anything because no one asked me about it. Before the anime aired I was only told “the entirety of the Soul Society arc should be covered in one year”, so I thought "oh, the anime will end in a year." I can't remember very well whether or not the anime tried to turn Ichigo and Rukia into lovers.
Q425.
2022.12.19
Akon's skin tone is painted in a different color between the Thousand-Year Blood War arc color pages and KaraBuri, is this something intentional? I remember his complexion being quiet pale, so it caught me by surprise to see him painted with some color in his cheeks in the Thousand-Year Blood War.
A425.
At the beginning of TYBW, I used a color that gave him a bit more of a typical human complexion as it creates a contrast with Mayuri. Was the color choice really that dark…?
Q426.
2022.12.26
Has Kubo-sensei checked the lines in the English-language edition of BLEACH? Are the nuances and so on reflected in the English translation?
A426.
I like the English language, but it's not like I can read it so I don't check them.
Q427.
2022.12.26
Please tell us the intonation of the name "Kazui"!
A427.
It's the same as the intonation of "atsugi" (*Japanese for warm clothes). The same with "kabuki" (*eccentric), or "kasumi" (*haze).
Q428.
2022.12.26
Who is your favorite member among the Bambies?
A428.
I like all the Bambies.
Q429.
2023.01.02
Is Byakuya affectionate towards Ichika?
A429.
Very much so.
Q430.
2023.01.02
Is the entire 5th Division barracks overflowing with items of Hirako Shinji's leisurely pursuits?
A430.
At present, It is being extensively renovated to suit Hirako's tastes.
Q431.
2023.01.02
A question regarding Findorr. During his conversation with Hisagi, the way in which there is a repeated exchange of questions and answers, until finally Findorr makes a serious attempt at his life after an incorrect answer is given, in addition to Pinza Aguda, it reminded me of the Yōkai Kanibōzu. I was wondering if that's where sensei also developed his ideas from.
A431.
When I looked it up, it turned out there is indeed such a Yōkai! That wasn't the source of my inspiration, but I love Yōkai so I'm glad to have learned about one I had no idea existed.
Q432.
2023.01.09
I love BLEACH so much that I want a T-Point card or some other kind of point redemption card with a BLEACH design on it! Where can I ask to have my suggestion considered!?
A432.
This question was sent before the art exhibition, but I'm glad to say the cards were made available!
Q433.
2023.01.09
All four of the Seireimon Gatekeepers have gigantic bodies, but I wonder if they have increased in size naturally or if they are using a kind of enhancement drug or something in order to serve as Gatekeepers.
A433.
Being a Gatekeeper of the Seireimon is an occupation only held by those who possess a huge physique on an exceptional scale.
Q434.
2023.01.09
Ichigo's occupation was revealed to be a translator, but what languages does he translate?
A434.
He does English to Japanese translation.
Q435.
2023.01.16
If Shinigami had a driver's license, who would you say is the best driver and who is the worst?
A435.
I suppose it depends on what measure of skill we use, but if we're talking about safe driving, then it's Isane, if it's about mastery, then it's Kisuke, as for those who are bad at driving… I get the feeling that a lot of them would be quite bad…. Kenpachi would probably crash first….
Q436.
2023.01.16
I think the Espada, Nnoitra Gilga, is an Arrancar who embodies an abundance of praying mantis elements, both in terms of his Zanpakutō name and its release call, but also in terms of his personality which appears to fit the idiom "praying mantis's axe" (*courageous but doomed resistance). The other day, a program called "Amazing Insects!" featuring Kagawa Teruyuki-san was being rebroadcast on TV, and I learned about a praying mantis called "Peruvian shield mantis" which is characterized by its round thorax. Is this praying mantis the original motif for the round part of his clothes behind his head?
A436.
When I searched it up, it really did resemble Nnoitra! Interesting way of looking at things but it's just a coincidence.
Q437.
2023.01.16
It seems that Yammy's Fracción Kukkapūro was left in the spot where Yammy died, but was he safe when the Quincy launched their assault in the final arc?
A437.
He's safe. Well, to be honest, if you had asked me this before I got my dog Uni, I would probably have said that he's dead…. But now, I can no longer bear to watch any form of entertainment where an animal dies, so Kukkapūro is fine.
Q438.
2023.01.23
The 'Shop' has goods such as T-shirts and art boards, but are there any plans to add a wider variety of other merchandise in the future? (Acrylic stands, for example.) Personally, I really want Yuyu-chan merch…!
A438.
There were quite a few acrylic stands released at the exhibition…. But it's true there aren't many Yuyu goods so I'll let my editor know!
Q439.
2023.01.23
Sensei, although you draw BLEACH as a battle-themed manga, do you always bear in mind that it also has aspects of horror manga while writing it? I ask this question because I read the new one-shot and it reminded me of the consistent presence of horror elements which has been there since the beginning and that made me curious.
A439.
Wherever it was that I felt "it might be more interesting if it was slightly scary here", I would go ahead and draw it with a slight touch of eeriness. Though, I don't have any particular intention of drawing manga in a horror-like style. I'm not good with scary stuff. I can't handle scary stories or movies at all, but I'm fine with the ones I've drawn myself.
Q440.
2023.01.23
Within the story of BLEACH, multiple anesthetic drugs were presented such as Shinten, Gaten and Hōten, but are drugs like Gaten and Hōten effective even on people with high Reiatsu?
A440.
That's correct. Out of those Shinten is the weakest, followed by Gaten, then Hōten which has the strongest effect and can even come to take effect on individuals who possess a powerful Reiatsu.
Q441.
2023.01.30
Kubo-sensei, do you use BLEACH LINE stamps?
A441.
Deciding whether or not to use stamps from one's own work is a matter that varies among artists, but I'm the type who's too embarrassed to use them. My editor and my friends often use BLEACH stamps.
Q442.
2023.01.30
Did Kubo-sensei come up with the novel titles, like "The Honey Dish Rhapsody" and "Can't Fear Your Own World"? I'm especially interested in the "knot" from the title "We Do knot ALWAYS LOVE You" because it reminds me of Yumichika's line "it's much harder to tie than to untie."
A442.
"Can't ~" was suggested by Narita-san and I gave it the okay, the rest are titles I came up with. The "knot" from "We Do knot~" as you correctly pointed out, was extracted from Yumichika's line.
Q443.
2023.02.06
Sensei, does Orihime still work at the bakery? Or has she become a housewife and is occupied with raising her child?
A443.
By the time of the one-shot, Kazui has grown somewhat and Ichigo also has a job that allows him to stay at home a fair amount, so she works part-time at the bakery every now and then.
Q444.
2023.02.13
Do you have a favorite novel?
A444.
The first time I spontaneously thought "I love this~" was when I read Revolution No. 3 by Kaneshiro Kazuki.
Q445.
2023.02.20
I'd like to hear which character's lines gave you the most trouble to create so far.
A445.
I don't remember which lines gave me the most trouble because it's not the spoken lines that stand out but rather the plain explanatory narration.
Q446.
2023.02.27
What exactly did sensei do in order to improve his drawing skills? Did you do things like drawing rough construction lines, or did you try copying your favorite pictures?
A446.
Of course I tried drawing by imitating my favorite manga, but it was never something good enough to be called a 'copy'. I still don't know the proper way to draw construction lines.
Q447.
2023.02.27
When did Ichigo get his hair cut short? Was it Yuzu-chan who cut it for him at the time as well?
A447.
I haven't decided on when exactly he got it shortened, but after graduating from high school, Ichigo used to go to an ordinary hair salon. At the badgering of Yuzu who became a hairdresser, Ichigo now goes to the beauty salon where Yuzu works.
Q448.
2023.03.06
The subtitles of chapter 129 and chapter 130, which were included in volume 15 of BLEACH, were titled "Etude of Transcendent Technique" when they were published in Jump magazine. Does Hinamori Momo's theme music comprise of "glass elevator", which was unveiled on the JET special website, in addition to the fourth étude "Mazeppa"?
A448.
That is a title dedicated to Ichigo's training. When putting the chapters into a tankōbon, I thought the main focus here should be Hinamori, so I changed the title in that direction. Wow, I never would have guessed that I'd receive a question about the subtitles at the time they were being published in the magazine.
Q449.
2023.03.13
What kind of pen nib do you use when composing your manga with traditional art mediums?
A449.
A Zebra G pen. I only use this one type.
Q450.
2023.03.20
The front cover of volume 70 features Haschwalt, but why is the illustration different when the book jacket is removed? Is this something sensei intended? I was curious because the book jacket of the other volumes was the same as the inner cover illustrations. I mean, his expression on the book jacket looks like a cold stare, but when you remove it, you can see a little light in his eyes and his expression is also somewhat melancholic…. To go further, in the opening poem, his eyes are closed. When you follow that sequence, like the fluctuations in the emotional state of Haschwalt himself, you're left with an indescribable feeling. I was observing, thinking how amazing it was that the sequence of facial expressions synchronized with the opening poem!
A450.
The variations are intentional.
Q451.
2023.03.27
What day of the week is Kubo-sensei's favorite day on Love It!?
A451.
If I had to choose one, then it's probably Wednesday. (*Love it! is a variety show in Japan.)
Q452.
2023.03.27
Is the reason why Nemu's breasts have gotten so big a side effect of changes in Kubo-sensei's art style throughout the series? Or is it because Nemu has developed? Or perhaps Kubo-sensei finds it more fun to draw them bigger?
A452.
Huh, are they that different? It was always my intention to draw them large from the very beginning.
Q453.
2023.04.03
Is the necklace worn by Ricky in BAD SHIELD UNITED the same one Rachel wore?
A453.
That's correct. Huh, I get questions like this too!?
Q454.
2023.04.10
Are the settings etc. of this recent one-shot and the Hell Verse movie treated as parallel?
A454.
It's separate from the movie.
Q455.
2023.04.10
There was an event called "Bankai Battle" in the BLEACH mobile game, was Kubo-sensei involved?
A455.
I'm not involved, but I'm aware that the swimsuit illustrations were erotic, so I want a book with all the swimsuit art collected inside.
Q456.
2023.04.17
I love Kitarō as much as I love Bleach, so I get excited every time Kubo-sensei talks about it. I love Mizuki Shigeru-sensei's manga of course, but I also love the Kitarō anime, has Kubo-sensei ever watched it? I like the sense of distance between Yōkai and humans in the second season (70's).
A456.
I've only watched the third season. (It's not that I dislike the others.) In the third season, there was a guest appearance by an original character known as Yumeko-chan, so it appears to be an unconventional choice among fans, but I like her. The rendering style for Kitarō is completely different from the original work (like his hair type), but when I was in elementary school, I used to draw Kitarō in both the style of the anime and the original work.
Q457.
2023.04.24
In chapter 477, Rukia jumps out to protect Ichigo from Tsukishima, however her facial expression appears to be one of surprise, so I was considering if it was actually Riruka controlling her body. Whose intention was it truly, Rukia's or Riruka's?
A457.
It's Riruka’s.
Q458.
2023.04.24
I would like to know if there are any painters that Kubo-sensei likes or any that have influenced him. Thank you.
A458.
My favorite painter, or perhaps I should say, my favorite painting is 'Flowers In a Vase' by Édouard Manet (or more accurately, it's something like 'Carnations and Clematis in a Crystal Vase'). When I was a student, I tore out a calendar page which had that picture printed on it and pasted it to the wall of my room.
Q459.
2023.04.24
I was convinced that Ichigo would become a doctor, but I am surprised to find out that he became a translator. I would like to know what led Ichigo to becoming a translator.
A459.
It's because he had an interest in connecting two worlds.
Q460.
2023.05.01
Is Yokochin doing well? I'm worried that he may be involved in some high-priced reselling or something shady like that.
A460.
It really seems like that would be the case, huh?
Q461.
2023.05.01
Were Szayelaporro and Yylfordt actually brothers during their time as humans? I think it's an exceedingly rare occurrence for both brothers to Hollowfy after death and also become an Arrancar, but I wonder if there was some common trigger? I have been curious about the pair for a long time, so I would like it if you could tell me.
A461.
The two of them were too similar at their core, so they were met with the same fate.
Q462.
2023.05.08
This is a question regarding Yayahara Yuyu. It seems like she's obsessed with gyaru style due to Lisa's influence, but what was her appearance like before that?
A462.
She wasn't a gyaru back then, but I might draw what she used to look like someday so I'll keep quiet for now.
Q463.
2023.05.08
Where is Nelliel's Hollow hole located?
A463.
In the heart.
Q464.
2023.05.15
In the one-shot, Rukia referred to Orihime by her first name, but how does Orihime address Rukia?
A464.
She calls her "Rukia-chan".
Q465.
2023.05.15
I want to know why Yoruichi-san can take on the form of a black cat. It seems possible to interpret it as the form of Yoruichi-san being sealed into a different one, that of a black cat, however it also appears to be fundamentally different to Hadō and Bakudō. Is it a power that diverges from Kidō? Or perhaps it's some kind of technology belonging to Urahara-san?
A465.
It's the Shihōin bloodline. Sometimes, individuals who can transform into the shape of an animal emerge from within the Shihōin clan.
Q466.
2023.05.22
I frequently use LINE stamps from BLEACH and BTW! I would like BLEACH and BTW LINE themes too, are there any plans of this kind for the future?
A466.
I haven't heard about any such plans, but I'll let my editor know!
Q467.
2023.05.22
It appears that Ryūken is a surgeon, but what department has Uryū been working in since becoming a doctor?
A467.
He is currently assigned to the pediatric department because he is popular with children.
Q468.
2023.05.29
I would definitely love to see replica Zanpakutō being made into merch. Whether it's a full scale model, or around the size of a pencil, I'd like to make a collection either way. What do you think?
A468.
I feel like there were keychains out there in the past…. I'll try to pass that on to my editor.
Q469.
2023.05.29
In the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, when they gathered energy as part of the world distortion repair team, and in the novel CFYOW, after the battle with Tsunayashiro and company had concluded, Hiyori came to the Soul Society in a normal manner. Does that mean the other Visoreds who remained at their base of operations are able to travel back and forth between Soul Society and the Human World like normal now? Are they opening the Senkaimon by themselves? I assume if they don't have a Hell Butterfly, they'd be sent through the Dangai…. I'm curious what their relationship with Soul Society is like after the battle with Aizen had come to an end.
A469.
At present, the Visored are being lent passes that can substitute for a Hell Butterfly.
Q470.
2023.06.05
I've always been super curious about this, but are all Shinigami's underwear loincloths? Is it different for female Shinigami, or people like Sasakibe-san who likes Western culture, or Ichigo who is a substitute Shinigami?
A470.
Excluding those who are extremely picky about it, It's a basic loincloth for both men and women.
Q471.
2023.06.05
Are Aizen-sama's glasses just for show? Personally, I thought that he wore them to make his face look gentle, but I would like to know the reason behind why he wore glasses if there is one.
A471.
You're exactly right. He wore them in order to give his face a softer look.
Q472.
2023.06.05
Just like with Isshin's Engetsu and Ichigo's Zangetsu, when there is a parent-child relationship, will the names and properties of a Zanpakutō be similar?
A472.
Not limited to parent and child, similarities can sometimes occur among blood relatives.
Q473.
2023.06.12
When Ichigo addresses members of the Gotei 13, regardless of their rank, he either drops the honorifics in their name, or attaches the polite suffix '-san', like "Byakuya" versus "Rangiku-san" for instance. Does he have some kind of criteria? I can understand dropping honorifics if it's an opponent he once fought or something, but for example, when he interacts with Tōshirō for the first time in the story (with the Hitsugaya advance party), Ichigo was already calling him just "Tōshirō!", so that got me curious.
A473.
I wonder what it is… I get the feeling that Ichigo drops honorifics for guys who, in his mind, are classed as "youngsters"….
Q474.
2023.06.12
I love the Lost Agent arc. Roughly how old is Ginjo, and how exactly did he become a substitute Shinigami?
A474.
How he became a substitute Shinigami is a secret, but his human age is 28 years old.
Q475.
2023.06.12
Gerard's Schrift is M: The Miracle, and his ability involved "the gigantification of any body part which had damage incurred upon it and then strengthening it." When Gerard was sliced in half by Zaraki Kenpachi's Bankai, something resembling a Quincy cross emerged from his head. Was that something akin to Gerard's core and if it had been destroyed, would Gerard have been defeated?
A475.
If it were destroyed, he would have been defeated. As long as something is capable of destroying it.
Q476.
2023.06.19
In the PV for the Thousand-Year Blood War arc anime, was it Kubo-sensei himself who drew the "Thousand-Year Blood War arc" lettering which appears in the logo?
A476.
It was the designer. That lettering is great, isn't it?
Q477.
2023.06.19
I have a question about the Central 46. They are said to be composed of forty sages and six judges gathered from all over Soul Society, but what is the recruitment criteria like? Is there some kind of training school, like the ones in the Human World? Also, as far as I can see from the illustrations in the manga, they appear to be wearing clothes which are similar in appearance to Shihakushō, so I wonder if they are also classified as Shinigami?
A477.
They are Shinigami.
Q478.
2023.06.19
Since Yachiru, Nemu and Unohana-san are no longer here, what happened with regard to the personnel of the Shinigami Women's Association?
A478.
When it comes to Nemu at least, Hachigō has already become a member.
Q479.
2023.06.26
If there are any recently released games that you highly recommend, please tell me about it.
A479.
By the time this is posted, I plan to be hooked on the new Zelda game.
Q480.
2023.06.26
Painted on Lilynette's mask, there is something resembling the flame insignia found in the BLEACH title logo, is there any reason why that flame mark is on Lilynette's mask?
A480.
The one on Lilynette's mask is her Estigma. ×[2]
Q481.
2023.06.26
Dokugamine Riruka from 12 years later looks so pretty. What is her current occupation?
A481.
She started up her own brand and works as a designer.
Q482.
2023.07.03
It is mentioned that Captain Unohana sensed something strange about Captain Aizen's corpse. Is it a result of the fact that she had slashed too many people in the past, that she felt something was wrong from the sensation of cutting (or perhaps slashing) during the autopsy? Also, was this one depiction that hinted at her past as Yachiru who is known for slaying an excessive amount of people?
A482.
It is because she has seen too many corpses, both in the past and present. I guess It's a hint if we can call it that?
Q483.
2023.07.03
Does the Soul King have a name?
A483.
He does. It may be revealed depending on the current flow of events in the anime.
Q484.
2023.07.03
In the anime, the color of Ukitake's eyes were brown, however in sensei's color illustrations, his eyes are painted green on several occasions. Which is correct?
A484.
They are green.
Q485.
2023.07.10
When Grand Fisher confronted Isshin in his Shinigami form, he made a statement along the lines of "Kurosaki Ichigo is a Shinketsu (*true blood)", but what exactly did he mean by "Shinketsu". My prediction is that the word refers to a being who happens to possess all the elements of "Shinigami, Quincy, Hollow and human", or perhaps a being born between a Quincy and a Shinigami.
A485.
"Shinketsu" refers to a Shinigami who was born from a Shinigami, not an individual from Rukongai who became one.
Q486.
2023.07.10
I like Hisagi and always look forward to seeing his Zanpakutō in action ever since its first appearance, but the phrase "a shape that reaps life" appealed to me so much that Kazeshini became my favorite Zanpakutō. Hisagi exudes a strong impression of a character who is often toyed with, so I recall being very happy because he was surprisingly cool. Nevertheless, it's because my mental image of Hisagi was just as the aforementioned, that I also remember being taken by surprise after seeing Kazeshini. There are some characters whom I think have a Zanpakutō that is different to their image, and some characters whom I think have a Zanpakutō which suit them perfectly. So, I'm curious whether sensei creates a character first and then thinks about their Zanpakutō, or if it's the other way around.
A486.
Off the top of my head, they come after the character. The same goes for Hisagi, of course.
Q487.
2023.07.10
I quite like Kurumadani Zennosuke, but I haven't seen much merchandise featuring him…. Even after I tried searching, I could only find one card from BLEACH Soul Card Battle… I'd like to see any kind of Zennosuke merch released even if it's just a sticker. My dream is to buy Kurumadani Zennosuke merch someday. Also, Kubo-sensei, what kind of goods do you think you can commercialize with Kurumadani Zennosuke? If you don't mind, please tell me.
A487.
It won't be profitable because you're gonna be the only one buying it, you know? Come to think of it, I feel like there wasn't any original artwork made for Kurumadani at the exhibition either….
Q488.
2023.07.17
This is a question regarding Ōetsu's line, "I know the whereabouts of every Asauchi" which appears in volume 59. I considered that perhaps this so-called "whereabouts" has three components:
1. Physical location ①
2. Physical location ②
3. Psychological & spiritual location
First of all, "1. physical location ①" is the storehouse where the Asauchi are kept, which will be distributed to those who will soon enter the Shin'ō Academy and become Shinigami or members of other organizations. Even in this case, it certainly would be surprising for Ichigo, but I don't think it's something to be that boastful about. This is because it is (most likely) a teacher from the Shin'ō Academy who takes out Asauchi from the storehouse and then distributes them, so it's not Ōetsu's privilege.
Next, "2. physical location ②" means that, similar to GPS, he can perceive the current location of all Zanpakutō which have been released from their Asauchi.
Finally, "3. Psychological & spiritual location" is the key point where Shinigami who possess Asauchi liberate their Asauchi. I believe there is a standard which dictates how far a Shinigami needs to go before they are able to release it, and I wonder if Ōetsu knows what that standard is for all Shinigami. Knowing the key point for the release criterion of all Shinigami extending from Soul Society let alone to the various locations in the Human World is truly an extraordinary feat which deserves to be called 'god-like'.
It's not the best idea to base things on personal impressions, so I would appreciate your opinion or answer regarding this analysis.
A488.
What Ōetsu meant is that he knows "who owns the Asauchi and what kind of state it is in" so no. 3 is the closest.
Q489.
2023.07.17
When Ikkaku was 3rd seat and Yumichika was 5th seat, did anyone occupy the 4th seat in Squad 11?
A489.
No one did.
Q490.
What is your favorite drink at Starbucks? (Including any limited-time items from the past.)
A490.
It's Adzuki Frappuccino.
Q491.
2023.07.24
In the story of Isshin and Masaki-san's chance encounter, we observed an injury, received from a Hollow, which had undergone treatment. But, I wonder if it involves the Kishi being treated directly, or if the soul is treated after being extracted from the Kishi, or perhaps the soul is treated directly through the Kishi? Which one is it? Since Shinigami do not harbor Kishi in the first place, they only have a method of treatment for the soul, and since the Quincy are living human beings, I think it was necessary to establish a treatment method that directly affects the soul through the Kishi.
A491.
There are Quincy who treat only the Kishi, and there are Quincy who have the ability to treat even Reishi alongside the Kishi.
Q492.
2023.07.24
The art exhibition was so amazing! I would like to know about three characters in particular who appeared in the exhibition illustrations. Is the man wearing glasses next to Ikumi-san her husband?? Is the boy in the suit next to Nelliel Shishigawara-kun?? I also want to know about the pink-haired woman to the upper left of Uryū. It took me 20 odd hours to put the puzzle together, but I finished it without incident so now it's displayed in my room!
A492.
The pink haired woman is Riruka. You are correct about the other two.
Q493.
2023.07.24
It's something I noticed when looking at the newly drawn illustrations made for the art exhibition, but has Kubo-sensei never drawn Harribel outside of her Espada look (such as in a swimsuit)? I wound up paralyzed after seeing all the different versions in Brave Souls. There are swimsuits for Nelliel and Riruka, but now that I think about it… I started to wonder about something. Is the reason why there were few opportunities to draw Harribel, because it's difficult to integrate her with other characters?
A493.
It doesn't seem like Harribel would be willing to wear a swimsuit, does it?
Q494.
2023.07.31
The back of Kisuke's haori from volumes 2 to 5 has a circle with the character "喜" (*ki from "Kisuke") within it, but it disappears from volume 6 onwards. Does this design change have any significance? Or does Kisuke wear two types of haori that he made himself?
A494.
I got rid of it because it was too tedious to draw, but maybe I should just pretend that he has two? Well, from a design perspective, I prefer for it to be simple without that particular aspect to it.
Q495.
2023.07.31
What will happen to the returned Zanpakutō of Shinigami who have left their position in the Gotei 13? Will Ōetsu turn them into Asauchi again?
A495.
After being stored for a fixed period of time, they are returned to Ōetsu and made into Asauchi again. The length of this "fixed period" depends on the owner.
Q496.
2023.07.31
Captain Hitsugaya and Vice-Captain Hinamori are childhood friends, but are these two neighbors? Or did they live in the same house?
A496.
The same neighborhood.
Q497.
2023.08.07
When a child is born among inhabitants of Soul Society, does that soul belong to someone who died in the Human World? Or, is it that inhabitants who died in the Human World are mixed together with inhabitants of Soul Society who were born and raised there?
A497.
All newly born children are inhabitants of Soul Society.
Q498.
2023.08.07
If the poison of Kamishini no Yari were to be injected into Nakk Le Vaar, without anything being injected into him beforehand, would he die? Or will he endure?
A498.
If he is injected with the poison without ever having come into contact with Gin (his Reiatsu) at all, then he will die.
Q499.
2023.08.07
Is there even the slightest possibility that Luppi could be a girl? When I first saw Luppi I thought "she's super cute"…. So I was shocked to hear a male voice actor perform the role in the anime. Up until then, I had been calling him "Luppi-chan".
A499.
Even if there isn't the slightest chance, please keep calling him "Luppi-chan".
Q500.
2023.08.14
Towards the end of Volume 55, Mayuri remarks towards the Captain Commander: "that time, 1000 years ago, you failed to kill that man", but the words "that time" suggests that Mayuri also happened to be present on that occasion. Do his words actually carry this nuance?
A500.
Mayuri found out about it in the course of researching other things. He was not actually present.
Translation Footnotes:
×1. "Jade Hall" is located on the sternum mid-line. "Heavenly Pivot" is located at the level of the navel.
×2. “Estigma” (mask crest) is a term which appears in the Masked character book, page 246: “A pattern marked on an Arrancar's face, possibly as a remnant of their mask. It is unique to each individual and can also appear when they activate Resurrección.”
The Medallions and the "Sankt Altar" used by His Majesty bore a striking resemblance to each other, is it correct to assume that the Medallions are the practical application of "Sankt Altar"?
A301.
That's correct.
Q302.
2022.03.07
Towards the end of the story, brush pens became used less frequently to express bloodshed compared to the early days, does this have something to do with your art style? I would love to know if there is a reason.
A302.
It became like that because I wanted to draw more detailed blood spray and flow.
Q303.
2022.03.14
What kind of technique is Ganju's "Seppa"? Considering the fact that it can directly interfere with matter and the fact that Ganju trained with Ginjō's group in the final arc, I anticipate that this is perhaps a technique closer to Fullbring.
A303.
He is using a technique passed down within the Shiba clan to unbind the union of Reishi particles thereby dividing the matter into pieces.
Q304.
2022.03.14
The boss-like characters that Ichigo has fought so far, that is, Byakuya, Aizen and Ginjō, all have colors contained within their names, but is there some color related connotation in Yhwach's name?
A304.
In the very early stages of development, Yhwach was given the pseudonym "Yhwach Beltz". Beltz means "black" in Basque.
Q305.
2022.03.14
Is Renji's false Bankai "Hihiō Zabimaru" (*Baboon King), inspired by Minamoto no Yorimasa's slaying of the Nue? Renji subdued Zabimaru who is in the form of a Nue and attains the Bankai "Hihiō Zabimaru"; Minamoto No Yorimasa slays the Nue and is granted the famous sword Shishiō (*Lion King). I'm very interested in the pair because they both have these points in common: defeating the Nue and gaining the power (or weapon) called "~King". I would be happy if you could answer!
A305.
It's the first time I'm hearing of this legend. However the similarities are such that I'm not even surprised you would think it's the source. A sword with such a manga-like name exists….
Q306.
2022.03.21
Orihime has a food scene in every arc. Examples:
Agent of the Shinigami arc - Red bean paste on a loaf of bread.
Soul Society arc - Meal at Kūkaku's residence.
Arrancar arc - Ice cream eaten with Rangiku and the meal that was almost shoved down her throat by Ulquiorra.
The Lost Agent of the Shinigami arc - Doughnuts.
Thousand-Year Blood War arc - Scrapped bread, some sweet potato-like food.
And more.
Were these eating scenes included to add to her character, or rather, perhaps I should ask if they naturally increased in number because Orihime came to life on her own as the story progressed? I love the scene where she cries while eating doughnuts in the Lost Agent arc.
A306.
I'm realizing that for the first time now that you've mentioned it. Come to think of it, Orihime eats well, huh…. Whenever I draw a food related scene, it is also the moment where I think to myself “I want a soft atmosphere in the dialogue and the scenery”, so I believe that's where Orihime fits in. Besides, it's kind of like, I don't really want to draw a scene where a man eats food, you know?
Q307.
2022.03.21
Between Isshin and Masaki, who came up with the name "Ichigo"? My personal hypothesis is that he was born because Isshin protected "one thing = Masaki's life", and since Isshin would probably dislike the idea of his son bearing half of his own name, I reckon Masaki came up with it. However, if there is a definitive answer, I would love to know!
A307.
Masaki is the one who named him. For a long time, I was in two minds over whether or not I should draw Ichigo's naming scene, but I abandoned the idea because it would likely just be Isshin and Masaki getting all lovey-dovey and that's gross.
Q308.
2022.03.21
In my opinion, Ichigo is the most handsome Jump character of all time! From sensei's point of view, are there any protagonists that you think lead a cool lifestyle, or anyone you consider good-looking among the history of Jump protagonists?
A308.
I'm rarely enthused by the protagonist, so I don't have any protagonist in mind. I like Cygnus Hyoga. Somehow, I feel like I've mentioned this before….
Q309.
2022.03.28
If Grimmjow undergoes training, could he attain Resurrección: Segunda Etapa someday?
A309.
He can.
Q310.
2022.03.28
In chapter 2, Ichigo fights a Hollow in Yumisawa Children's Park, is there any connection between the name "Yumisawa" and the Quincy? From long ago, the Ishida family have resided in Karakura Town which is the Jūreichi. I wondered if there is a possibility that words relating to the Quincy are attached to place names? (*Yumisawa - 弓沢 includes the kanji for "bow" - 弓.)
A310.
Huh!? There is indeed a connection. That's uncanny! I'm surprised you noticed because I simply added that connection in the name while playing around with the background details and had no intention of mentioning it at all.
Q311.
2022.03.28
When it comes to something I don't like, but I have to get it done, I have a hard time getting started. What does sensei do at times like this?
A311.
I procrastinate until the very last minute, and when it finally becomes impossible to put off any longer, I'll start with just a little bit of the initial part and then leave it aside for later. Of course, I'm talking about my rough drafts.
Q312.
2022.04.04
I thought the lines that Kajōmaru-san delivered were contrasting Captain Kyōraku's speech, but since Kajōmaru-san disappeared earlier than I expected, I've been contemplating the true meaning of his words this whole time. Did something happen in Kajōmaru-san's past?
A312.
Naturally, his lines are meant to correspond with Shunsui's lines, but it's the prelude made for the purpose of setting up Shunsui's speech which is the main message, so I had Kajōmaru say it as he was going to exit the stage early.
Q313.
2022.04.04
I've always thought to myself that if a BLEACH musō style game ever came out, it would probably be so much fun. Doesn't "Shinigami Musō" sound good??? Thank you for your time!!!
A313.
I love Hokuto Musō too, so I think it probably would be fun if there was one. Just imagine Aizen running out from the back of the screen in a 2-player setting whilst blowing away all the trash mobs!
Q314.
2022.04.04
Why did the Shin'ō Academy have its name changed from "Tōgakuin"? (Has their curriculum or philosophy changed?) ×[1]
A314.
Originally it was a school exclusively for Shinigami, however as organizations like the Kidō Corps and the Inner Court Troop were established and classified, the name changed.
Q315.
2022.04.11
It's something that I just thought of right now, but is it possible that the Zanpakutō belonging to the early 13th Division were modeled after Pisces and its ruling planet Neptune? Captain Ukitake's Sōgyo no Kotowari may allude to the constellation of Pisces. It is a constellation in which the tails of two fish are tied together with a string (or ribbon), and Sōgyo no Kotowari also has the hilt of two swords linked together with a cord.
On the other hand, Kaien's Nejibana is a three-pronged spear. It is a symbol of Neptune (Poseidon in Greek), the god of the sea who rules over the planet Neptune.
I have a fair amount of confidence in this theory as there is too much overlap, but what do you think? Also, please let us know if there are any source materials or inspirations which formed the image of Captains and Vice-Captains (any others are fine too).
A315.
"Twin fish" is used to represent letters in Chinese literature, from there I kind of imagined it as "exchanging of letters" → "circulation of energy". About Kaien's sword, I suppose that comes from the mental image of combining the whirlpool of the Shiba clan and water from the twin fish. ×[2]
Q316.
2022.04.11
Sensei, can I use the photos you uploaded of your doggie for my phone's wallpaper?
A316.
You can.
Q317.
2022.04.11
I really sympathize with Quilge Opie's line "speech is silver, silence is golden", but I wonder if a line like this is based on sensei's actual experience?
A317.
This is originally a proverb from the English language.
Q318.
2022.04.18
I watched Ōishi-sensei's birthday stream! I'm very happy because I was able to see characters from other works being drawn by Kubo-sensei and the process by which illustrations come to a state of completion in real time! Do you have any plans to stream it to your fan club or release a time-lapse? If you are so inclined, please do so!!
A318.
That is Ōishi-kun's YouTube project, so please make a request to Ōishi-kun! ×[3]
Q319.
2022.04.18
What does Honshō Chizuru-chan think about Orihime and Ichigo's marriage?
A319.
Since Chizuru is a free-spirited person, she would think "she got married, so what?"
Q320.
2022.04.18
Kubo-sensei also appeared in Ōishi-san's YouTube archive, I watched the hell out of it (an expression I rarely use these days….) The damask-patterned curtains behind Kubo-sensei were so chic that I took my hat off. What brand is it? I looked very closely at it, but I wonder if it's a front lace style where a damask-patterned lace curtain is hung in front of a thick curtain. I was interested because the curtains were beautiful.
A320.
I forgot the manufacturer but it does indeed have front lace. You're very observant…. ×[3]
Q321.
2022.04.25
When Byakuya fought PePe, he was never manipulated by Love Kiss even though he was struck by it. Is that because the mantle Byakuya was wearing is made of the Ōken.
A321.
That's right. That reminds me, there was no space to draw the reason there….
Q322.
2022.04.25
When the Soul King is first seen, he clearly appears to have limbs, when did you settle on the idea to have him limbless? Additionally, when Pernida Parnkgjas promptly dispatched the Second-Class Divine Soldier he was drawn with a normal left hand, so I don't think Pernida was set up to be the Left Arm of the Soul King at that time.
A322.
With respect to the set up I had in mind, it had been arranged so that normally, Pernida can maintain an imperfect humanoid form, but when they lose themself, they lose the ability to maintain their shape, thus revealing their true form (a left hand), but since it's difficult to understand, I'm thinking it's a concept I can probably do away with. Either way, I wanted to draw Pernida's hood tearing apart when they turn into a left hand.
Q323.
2022.04.25
I wish a Blu-ray box edition of the BLEACH anime would be offered for sale…they were available in the past…I'd like to have something similar to the DVD box which went up to the Soul Society arc….
A323.
I'll let my editor know. Murakoshi-saaan!
Q324.
2022.05.02
I apologize for bringing up the anime, but in the Zanpakutō: The Alternate Tale arc, among the Zanpakutō of the Captains and Vice-Captains whose names had already been established at the time, it was only Itegumo's incarnated form which did not make an appearance. Was this Kubo-sensei's intention? Or is it that the anime staff simply didn't come to you with an offer for Itegumo…?
A324.
Since I have no recollection of ever having met to discuss Itegumo, I think it's likely there were no plans for Itegumo.
Q325.
2022.05.02
What kind of person is Ikumi-san's husband? How old is he in your designs?
A325.
Ikumi-san is single in the main story, and she remarries in that space leading up to the Echoing Jaws of Hell arc.
Q326.
2022.05.02
Kubo-sensei, do you often reread the BLEACH tankōbon?
A326.
I usually don't read them at all, so I've almost forgotten everything. It's thanks to posting replies in this Q&A corner that with every round of questions I end up rereading the previous and subsequent tankōbon thoroughly.
Q327.
2022.05.09
Was it intentional that Aizen's origins and past are still largely undisclosed? I'd like to know because I often find myself thinking that there aren't many villains who possess that much charisma whose background remains unknown.
A327.
Most depictions of a villain's past are composed in order to draw out sympathy and a sense of relatability from the audience, and since I don't like that approach very much, I try to avoid it. All characters have a different set of values and I believe a villain is a character whose differences in that regard are so large that they cannot be accepted.
Q328.
2022.05.09
I was always watching out for this with bated breath, but I wonder if the reason Rangiku's breasts don't spill out from her Shihakushō is because she's holding them in place with Reiatsu? Did she actually have a nip slip once where nobody was watching? I'm curious if the reason why her chest is so widely exposed is because they cause her pain or perhaps it's a 'freebie' for others. I love how sexy her chest is.
A328.
I was drawing her with the assumption that she would affix double sided tape to her chest, but I like the idea of her holding them in place with Reiatsu better. Maybe I should use it.
Q329.
2022.05.09
I was surprised to learn that Kubo-sensei's hometown is the very town where I currently live and work (I felt a strong sense of familiarity at the mention of Soleil). So here's my question: roughly where in Karakura Town is the Visored's base located?
A329:
The Visored's hideout is around Spark (the name of a supermarket). I wonder if Spark is still there…?
Q330.
2022.05.16
The 7th volume with Byakuya on the cover begins with the line “We should not shed tears”, but at the time Kubo-sensei wrote this poem, did you already have an image in your head of chapter 502, "Falling Sakura" (where Byakuya is defeated by the enemy and sheds tears)?
A330.
I had no way of knowing where Jump would tell me to end the series, so it's not the exact version I had in mind back then, but I wrote it based on the idea that the tears would eventually be shed.
Q331.
2022.05.16
I would like to know how Yoruichi transforms into a cat. Is it a technique she herself had developed, is she able to shapeshift using a spiritual tool belonging to the Shihōin clan, or perhaps a device or technique developed by Urahara Kisuke? These are the only methods I can think of.
A331.
This is a technique developed by Yoruichi, for the purpose of sneaking out of the mansion whenever she pleases.
Q332.
2022.05.16
Have you ever tried Ayataka Café Matcha Latte? It's extremely popular and delicious.
A332.
Matcha based sweets aren't really my thing.
Q333.
2022.05.23
Where on Earth did Renji get that snazzy shirt with the Zabimaru-like design which he was wearing in the Human World in the final chapter? Was it custom made for Renji?
A333.
It's custom made. That t-shirt is nice isn't it?
Q334.
2022.05.23
On the Squad 10 introduction page in BLEACH 13 BLADEs, it says "Rangiku narrowly avoided having her Bankai stolen", has Rangiku acquired Bankai?
A334.
That's what is actually written there!? It's a mistake. How in the world did a mistake like this get in there…?
Q335.
2022.05.23
I have a question about the Shikai of Komamura's Zanpakutō "Tenken". When looking at the games and the anime, it seems there are two patterns in Tenken's Shikai ability: one where it partially summons Kokujō Tengen Myō'ō and does battle with its arm and sword, and another pattern where it accompanies Komamura's attacks with a mass of sword energy (?) that looks like an enlarged version of his own arm and sword. Which one is considered correct by Kubo-sensei?
A335.
"Summoning the arm of Myō'ō" is correct.
Q336.
2022.05.30
Regarding the resident certificate which is given as a bonus for joining this FC, I was surprised to see that Hueco Mundo was an option. Even in Hueco Mundo there are resident certificates…are there any public offices and such that manage it? If so, did Aizen establish and maintain it? These are the questions I thought about but I'd like to know sensei's opinion!
A336.
You might be able to tell by looking at the signatures, but Harribel is in charge of it and Hueco Mundo has started to become organized after Harribel began ruling.
Q337.
2022.05.30
You mentioned Momoclo in a previous Bambies related question, do you have any favorite idols and such? Did you happen to like Hinatazaka46 through Love it!? Is there someone you're rooting for?
A337.
When I see idols who were season regulars on Love it! appearing in other shows, I naturally start rooting for them. (*Love it! is a variety show in Japan.)
Q338.
2022.05.30
During the new captain's appointment ceremony in volume 74, Nanao-chan, who served as the host, is seen carrying a cane, was this an aftereffect of her fight with Lille? In the same volume, just a few pages before (the scene where she goes outside to call for Captain Kyōraku), it looks like she didn't have a cane, so I was wondering what the true situation is.
A338.
That's right. Either I forgot to draw it in the scene where she calls out to Shunsui or the detail ended up getting lost in the solid paint fill.
Q339.
2022.06.06
Is the reason why Ichigo's Bankai could not be stolen with a medallion because Ichigo's Bankai was mixed with Hollow power?
A339.
Correct.
Q340.
2022.06.06
You served as a judge for the Jump Gag Manga Awards, and I got the impression that there is a high percentage of gag manga among the works you find interesting, but do you have any plans or desire to draw your own gag manga?
A340.
When it comes to me, I just don't have the talent to draw gag manga, so I won't draw it. Gag manga are challenging works and only a select few can draw them.
Q341.
2022.06.06
About the color illustration from chapter 558 (depicting Ichigo and Renji inside a white coffin with a cross on it), it appears to bear a close resemblance to Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" music video, is there any connection?
A341.
I drew the white coffin design quite a long time ago and when I saw the Bad Romance music video, I recall being rather indecisive about what I should draw because Bad Romance was released first. Ultimately, I ended up drawing it after some time had passed. That being said, the music video for Bad Romance was incredibly cool.
Q342.
2022.06.13
When the anime commences, will there be a BLEACH game released following Soul Ignition? Not so much an app or something but for game consoles….
A342.
I feel like I heard some rumor like that from my editor….
Q343.
2022.06.13
If the Quincy trace bloodlines, I think Uryū would notice that an Echt Quincy called "Kurosaki" existed until recently, but were there any documents, family trees, etc. compiled by Sōken? If so, did Uryū sense something extraordinary after being admitted to Karakura High school, in particular towards the fact that it was a human with the surname "Kurosaki" who possessed the high Reiatsu?
A343.
Books concerning the Quincy are kept in a locked archive inside the hospital. Uryū is forbidden from going there, nor does Uryū himself want to enter that place so much that he would go to the trouble of fighting with Ryūken. Additionally, the more important books are kept in Ryūken's private room.
Q344.
2022.06.13
I've been wondering about this for a while, but in the color version, Liltotto's clothes in her earlier appearances had long sleeves, is this something that was simply overlooked during your checks? Don't the Sternritter only conform to one style of clothing?
A344.
Really!? I had no idea because I wasn't asked to check that. Her outfit was always sleeveless.
Q345.
2022.06.20
I read on the internet that the heroine of BLEACH, Inoue Orihime, is modeled after Inoue Mayuko from Ushio & Tora. Is that true? Is it also the case that Tatsuki was modeled after Asako?
A345.
I'm not exactly familiar with Ushio and Tora…. Please check for yourself whether it's mentioned in any official statement anyway.
Q346.
2022.06.20
Is it possible for fellow Hollows to make children?
A346.
It's possible.
Q347.
2022.06.20
I was thinking that the "B" and "H" from Jugo and Bazz-B's Schrift are the letters which form each other's names, was this giving us a hint that these two were best friends?
A347.
Of course.
Q348.
2022.06.27
I want Hollow and Dragon figurines!!! Are there any plans to turn them into figurines? Where can I request one to be made for me? I want to line up all the Märchens!!!!!!!
A348.
Is this question based on the premise that I draw all the Märchens!?
Q349.
2022.06.27
Will the effect of Wabisuke's ability be lifted if the Shikai is disengaged?
A349.
It will be lifted.
Q350.
2022.06.27
When Shinigami engage their Shikai, sometimes It will be unleashed by calling the sword's name despite not uttering the release command, is there any difference between this and a situation where they do recite the release command in full? Just like how only those who have acquired Bankai are able to release their Shikai without calling the name itself, perhaps it's not the case that just anyone can do this?
A350.
Only experts can release Shikai without the release command, and even if they can, it will take time for its efficiency to reach 100% after the release.
Q351.
2022.07.04
If members of the Visored have theme songs, please tell us about them!!
A351.
Oh yeah, I guess I've never made a note of that. I'll write about them somewhere!
Q352.
2022.07.04
Please tell us what your favorite BLEACH movie is!
A352.
I like the Ulquiorra fight at the beginning of Hell Verse.
Q353.
2022.07.04
Is the healing ointment that comes out of Ikkaku's sword an original ability of the Zanpakutō rather than something that was added through modification? When I did some investigating, I learned that the Hōzuki plant was used as a medicinal herb in the past, so I thought, maybe?
A353.
It's Hōzukimaru's ability.
Q354.
2022.07.11
I have received my certificate of residence, thank you very much. Did you also inspect the packaging envelope? I have never seen such a stylish parcel before, I was totally blown away…. I'm truly happy that I was immersed in this universe even before opening my package.
A354.
I did inspect it. Isn't the design great? The certificate of residence is also the outstanding handiwork of Ishino-san who has been involved with BLEACH for a long time.
Q355.
2022.07.11
Will the birthdays of the Sternritter members be made public in the future?
A355.
Perhaps it will be revealed in the anime, I can't say for sure.
Q356.
2022.07.11
In an illustration previously exhibited at the Reverse Shibuya event, Rickenbacker was listed as a Broombuggy. His appearance is quite different compared to Marshall and Wordsworth, does this mean that all Dragons people ride are considered Broombuggies?
A356.
Broombuggy is the name of a Dragon species while simultaneously being something like a model number used for Wing Bind registration, so if an individual brings along their own Dragon and it passes the test, they can register it as a Broombuggy.
Q357.
2022.07.18
When designing a female character, how is the bust size determined?
A357.
It's not so much choosing a bust size, but rather it's more like deciding on the overall fleshiness of the character and then making it a size that suits.
Q358.
2022.07.18
The new BLEACH work looks so interesting, I could barely contain my excitement!!! I couldn't help but wonder if there's something hidden in the title, like in BURN THE WITCH, is the missing horizontal bar on the "A" in "BREATHES" simply a design choice? Or does it have some kind of meaning? Please give us a hint!
A358.
I was just playing around with a design for the rough draft and I didn't even really communicate this detail to my editor, but the design more or less gives the impression that the "bolts of Hell have come loose.”
Q359.
2022.07.18
In the one-shot, there are records adorning a whole surface of the wall in the 5th Division barracks, are those all Hirako's personal belongings?
A359.
That's right.
Q360.
2022.07.25
I read the new BLEACH one-shot. The individuality of each person very much stands out, even down to things like their Captain's haori, has the change in Captain-Commander resulted in a more lenient dress code, personal grooming and so on?
A360.
It's definitely become more lenient. I mean, the Captain-Commander is Shunsui so….
Q361.
2022.07.25
With regard to Captain Unohana's name, was it intentional that by giving her the name "Retsu (烈)", the kanji for "death (死)" can be constructed when parts of her name are combined? Also, if the aforementioned is true, is there a possibility that the details surrounding characters’ naming will be revealed in a future one-shot sequel?
A361.
If "Hana (花)" and "Retsu (列)" are cut in two and then connected together, the result is "death (死)". It was intentional, or perhaps I should say, I did it out of fun but it turned out right. If someone correctly guesses the wordplay in the naming like this, then I may acknowledge it, but I don't think I should be the one to reveal it.
Q362.
2022.07.25
Is the BLEACH one-shot drawn entirely with traditional art mediums? There were some parts here and there that looked like it could be digital, did you use both?
A362.
Illustrations of characters, illustrations of animals, visual effects and lettering for sound effects were all made using traditional art mediums, Anything outside of that is digital.
Q363.
2022.08.01
New Vice-Captain, Rindō, has made an appearance, but where did Vice-Captain Iemura go?
A363.
Given that Atau's abilities were superior, Iemura voluntarily made an application for himself and was demoted to 3rd seat. Even though Iemura was the one to raise the matter of his own accord, he was so depressed that Hanatarō, unable to look on in silence, summoned him back to the 4th Division where he was reinstated. In the end, it seems that the 4th Division, which has a lot of paperwork, is more suited for Iemura.
Q364.
2022.08.01
I read the one-shot! I was like "this is iiiit!" for the first time in a long while and it gave me goosebumps…. Is this strictly a one-shot, will there not be a continuation…? I would definitely like to read the rest!
A364.
I'm not good at drawing when I'm being told to “draw, draw, draw” repeatedly, so I'll consider it once I'm no longer being told to do so.
Q365.
2022.08.01
Was the color spread in the 20th anniversary chapter, drawn digitally?
A365.
The coloring is digital.
Q366.
2022.08.08
How does Ichika perceive Yumichika's gender? We live in a time where gender is a difficult issue, but I'd like to see a scene unfold where he's like "I'm a man" and Ichika goes "what!?"
A366.
She already knew he's a man from the start.
Q367.
2022.08.08
In chapter 188, when Isshin-san regained his Shinigami powers for the first time in 20 years, he referred to the Visored in his conversation with Urahara-san. During this scene, Urahara-san who had helped to contain their Hollowfication, acted as though he possessed no detailed information concerning their backgrounds or ideology. Was this information simply not revealed to Isshin-san and nothing more? Or is it that he truly had no idea what the Visored were planning at that time because he hadn't been involved with them since The Past arc, among other things?
A367.
This is because he concluded that there would be more of a benefit towards the management of Ichigo's Hollowfication if he did not divulge that information to Isshin.
Q368.
2022.08.08
I like the sound of Aaroniero Arruruerie's name. What is the origin of this name?
A368.
It's based on the designer Eero Aarnio.
Q369.
2022.08.15
I have a question concerning the phrase "Fill the earth and know your own powerlessness" in Kurohitsugi's chant. In the book of Genesis, after creating man (in the sense that man is the greatest thing ever created), the word of God states “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it." Are the words in the Kurohitsugi incantation modeled after this?
A369.
It's not the case that I used Genesis as a model, though Kurohitsugi's chant itself becomes a chant that speaks about all humanity.
Q370.
2022.08.15
In the new one-shot, Ichigo goes to Keigo's ramen shop and says "everyone came out to eat", but who exactly does he mean by "everyone"? Who else was there besides Mizuiro? Was Chad also with them
A370.
The one in the seat at the back is Uryū.
Q371.
2022.08.15
I love Dordoni, so I'd like if you could draw him a lot more.
A371.
Now that you mention it, I forgot to draw new pieces for Dordoni and his group for the art exhibition….
Q372.
2022.08.22
In the new one-shot, Ichika calls Renji "Tō-sama (*father)", but what does she call Byakuya?
A372.
"Oji-sama (*uncle)"
Q373.
2022.08.22
Sensei, have you ever seen derivative creations (fanfiction, dōjinshi, etc.) of your own work? Also, what do you think about such creations?
A373.
As long as the fans can find enjoyment in it with one another, they can go right ahead. Please send me male-oriented erotica. Because I read it.
Q374.
2022.08.22
I love the background music from the anime and movies and I listen to them often, was sensei also involved in the music selection?
A374.
It doesn't involve me. This is not because I'm not interested, but because I'm fond of Sagisu-san's work.
Q375.
2022.08.29
Aside from nobles, do seated officers live on the road to the seated officers' quarters? Do they live in detached housing?
A375.
Most of them do.
Q376.
2022.08.29
I was incredibly impressed after watching the video of you drawing on KlubOutside! Are you using a tracing lightbox from Bears.Seven? And is it being stabilized by the horizontal pipe behind it? Also, if you don't mind, I would be grateful if you could tell us what's going on with the space on both sides of the tracing lightbox!
A376.
I ended up buying a new ultra-thin tracing lightbox over and over again until I found one that I liked, I forgot the manufacturer's name. I'd be in trouble if it broke…. The space on both sides is chaotically littered with things.
Q377.
2022.08.29
Regarding Kyōraku-san's Bankai, Katen Kyōkotsu: Karamatsu Shinjū, if the opponent doesn't put up a resistance (that is, try to rise to the surface) at the Third Act: Dangyo no Fuchi, does it not transition to the Final Act? The story goes that "having resigned themselves to their fate, they hurl themselves", so I thought that if the opponent accepted it, then it would become a lovers' suicide just as the name suggests.
A377.
Not limited to the Third Act, If an opponent dies midway through, it is assumed that the "performer has disappeared", and thus the Act ends there.
Q378.
2022.09.05
When I look at sensei's work, the lines appear to be much bolder in the early stages, are your lines something you paid more attention to as a consequence or did you have a change of mind regarding this area? Or perhaps you merely changed your pen?
A378.
The lines became thinner for two reasons: for one, with that early method of drawing, the lines would come out too thick when printed in the magazine, secondly I gained more experience with a pen and it reached a point where I was able to draw faster.
Q379.
2022.09.05
Do you like robots? You are great at creating characters, creatures and fantasy. Someday, I would like to see a robot designed by sensei.
A379.
I'm not interested in robots right now so I don't think I'd be able to compose a good design.
Q380.
2022.09.05
After I saw Ichika, there's something I've been wondering about: what is the growth rate of a Shinigami like in terms of physical age? Does the growth rate eventually come to slow down as the physical body develops in age?
A380.
I'll probably write about this in a Fanbook.
Q381.
2022.09.12
Japanese translations of the chapter subtitles were printed in the Fanbooks, but are there any plans to publish the rest somewhere?
A381.
It was difficult to check them so I don't really want to do it….
Q382.
2022.09.12
How tall is Tōshirō at present, in cm? Has there been any change from 133 cm…?
A382.
He's 134 cm now.
Q383.
2022.09.12
When you were composing your designs for New Sakura Wars, did you decide on the framework of each character? I'm especially curious about Anastasia.
A383.
For Sakura Wars, the request came in with everything already decided down to the names, settings, personality, body type, hairstyles, colors and role, so my job was to draw the actual design of the character using my own art style, that's all there was to it. It's almost like "putting makeup on someone else's child “
Q384.
2022.09.19
Kazui's room made an appearance in the one-shot, what made an impression on me is the fact that it wasn't a children's study desk or the like which adorned the place, but instead it was very simple furniture. Is there some reason for that?
A384.
It's to Ichigo's taste.
Q385.
2022.09.19
I would like to know what foods Kisuke-san likes and what food he dislikes…. If there are any changes between the time he was a Captain and the time he became "Hat-and-Clogs", I'd definitely like to hear about both of those eras….
A385.
His favorite food is rice and the food he dislikes are too many to list. While we're on the subject, Yoruichi has no likes or dislikes at all when it comes to food.
Q386.
2022.09.19
Who came up with the title "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU"?
A386.
I did.
Q387.
2022.09.26
Is it possible that Engetsu was not originally Isshin's Zanpakutō, but instead a Zanpakutō that once belonged to another Shinigami, like for instance, someone among the Five Great Noble Clans? I was wondering if the reason why no Shinigami connected the dots between Isshin and the Getsuga Tenshō used by Ichigo, was because they recognized Engetsu as a fire type Zanpakutō and were unaware of its ability i.e. "Getsuga Tenshō which gathers Reiatsu into a slashing attack"?
A387.
There are three reasons why the other Shinigami were not reminded of Isshin through witnessing Ichigo's Getsuga Tenshō:
Unlike the one used by Ichigo, Isshin's Getsuga Tenshō is a technique that gathers fire and Reiatsu into a slashing attack which is used at close range.
There are no opportunities for fellow Captains to learn each other's technique names outside of fighting together and training together.
In the Soul Society arc, Ichigo doesn't mention the name Getsuga Tenshō in front of anyone but Byakuya.
Q388.
2022.09.26
A long time ago on a certain program, Morita-san, who plays the role of Ichigo, mentioned how Kubo-sensei had pointed out to him the correct intonation of Getsuga Tenshō back in the early days. Did Kubo-sensei check the intonation of characters' spoken lines and techniques in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc, which were implemented in Brave Souls but have yet to make an appearance in the anime?
A388.
I may not be able to check as far as the finer details for Brave Souls. For the new anime on the other hand, I spent several hours discussing and checking as many new names and vocabulary as possible. As long as I haven't missed anything in my checks, it should turn out great.
Q389.
2022.09.26
I would like to learn the particulars of how Shutara Senjumaru got promoted to the Zero Division. What did she (is it a she?) create? At first I thought it might be the Shihakushō, but I can't imagine that a Shihakushō is important enough to warrant a promotion to Zero Division, so I'm thinking it's probably something else.
A389.
It's the Shihakushō.
Q390.
2022.10.03
I would like to know how Abarai Ichika-chan rates her father's eyebrows!
A390.
She thinks they're the coolest shape in the whole world.
Q391.
2022.10.03
Does Kubo-sensei have a Kanken certificate? (*Japan Kanji Aptitude Test)
A391.
I don't have one.
Q392.
2022.10.03
What is the motive behind Kyōraku Shunsui choosing Yadōmaru Lisa as his Vice-Captain? I'm also intrigued by their relationship. When Kyōraku and Lisa reunite again during the Decisive Battle of Karakura in the anime, Lisa strikes him violently as if in greeting, Kyōraku then says something like "you're looking as cute as ever" and Lisa blushes in response. I'm curious because I think this would never have happened if Lisa wasn't conscious of Kyōraku in some way or the other.
A392.
This is one of those scenes where the checks didn't come to me.
Q393.
2022.10.10
I really love the well-built and good-looking mature men that Kubo-sensei draws, but I was curious about specific areas of the face or body where you exert the most effort when drawing these characters. If I have to pick one character, I would be very happy if you could tell me something about Zaraki Kenpachi.
A393.
All the characters are different in terms of what aspect I pay extra attention to, in Kenpachi's case, I imagine him with "dry-looking, tense muscles on a thin figure with prominent bones.”
Q394.
2022.10.10
Not long after assuming her position as Captain of the 8th Division, Yadōmaru Lisa is seen wearing a Captain's haori which had long sleeves (in the illustration from the novel "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU" Lisa can be seen wearing what looks to be a haori with sleeves.) However, in the one-shot, it became a sleeveless Captain's haori. Did she have it altered to sleeveless or does she switch between two garments depending on her mood that day?
A394.
Immediately following that, Lisa used the haori Shunsui used to wear after cutting down the length of the sleeves.
Q395.
2022.10.10
The Seireiheki ordinarily protects the Soul King Palace, but do the gatekeepers of the Seireimon also normally protect the Soul King Palace?
A395.
I'll write about this here because it's probably not a piece of lore I'll ever draw, but the areas bordering the edges of the street around where the gates fall have come to be named "Marumaru-mon", they stand guard over the vicinity of those areas. ×[4]
Q396.
2022.10.17
Sensei, how many layers do you divide your work into when drawing an illustration digitally? If possible, I would also like to see a making-of video of your drawing process!
A396.
The number of layers depends on the illustration. All of the original color drawings from the BLEACH exhibition are still available as time-lapses, so I hope they can be viewed somewhere.
Q397.
2022.10.17
Kazeshini's chains appear to be expandable, but how does it shrink back after it has been expanded?
A397.
Shūhei does his best to shrink them back.
Q398.
2022.10.17
Given that Shawlong is the No.11 Arrancar, does that mean he was the first Menos among Aizen's forces to be turned into an Arrancar? In that case, why did Aizen choose him as the first test subject?
A398.
That's because Shawlong himself advised Aizen to try it on him first.
Q399.
2022.10.24
If Moguro Fukuzō from the "The Laughing Salesman" were in the world of BLEACH, who do you reckon would be the character that would likely be targeted by Moguro Fukuzō to have their souls filled?
A399.
Let me see, I wonder who… Shūhei…?
Q400.
2022.10.24
According to Ulquiorra's monologue, it seems that the fully Hollowfied Ichigo had used Sonído which is Hohō for Arrancar. In The Past arc from volume 36, it appears as though Kensei, who had progressed in Hollowfication, also utilized Sonído in the same way when he instantly moved behind Rabu. Could this be an indication that as a Shinigami's Hollowfication spreads from a state of being the mask alone to one where it affects the whole body, their existence grows closer to an Arrancar?
A400.
Correct.
Translation Footnotes:
×1. The "Shinigami Tōgakuin" is a name which appears in Souls character book, page 99. This is the name that is still most commonly used in Rukongai to refer to the Academy.
×2. Kubo is referring to Han-dynasty poems and legends, most notably: Ballad of Watering Horses in a Ditch by the Great Wall. Fish is used as a metaphor for letters sent by families far away as people would place their message in a wooden receptacle shaped like a fish. This receptacle would open down the middle thus becoming "two carp":
From a far land a traveler came
and left me two carp.
I asked my children to cook the fish
and inside they found a silk letter.
I knelt long and read the letter.
What did that letter say?
It started, Try to eat.
and ended, I miss you always.
×4. Please note: "Mon" means gate but "Marumaru" is not really a name, marumaru is a symbol (○○) which we use as placeholders when, for instance, there is no name. So it's essentially like saying "such and such gate” until the named gate actually falls and replaces that placeholder.
Hi everyone, while I'm working on the rest of my Q&A compilation, I have translated two of the new Q&As Kubo posted on the FC today.
Q586.
2024.02.26
The Captains of the Zero Division are each given one of the five cities atop the Zeroban Riden (*the disc-like structures which are their estates), but if the number of Zero Division captains increased, will a new Zeroban Riden be added? Or is the capacity for Captains limited to 5 individuals in accordance with the number of Zeroban Riden?
A586.
The upper limit is 5 people.
Q587.
2024.02.26
What does the "chain" in Tensa Zangetsu (*Heavenly Chain Slaying Moon) represent? Is it the Chain of Fate?
A587.
"Tensa" means "to lock the heavens", and it's a chain used to link and secure two things together.
I like Luppi. I was absolutely overjoyed when Luppi made an appearance as a playable character in Blade Battlers 2nd which was released on PS2. In this game, Luppi's arms transform into tentacles and he could extend them to attack. I was surprised because there was no such depiction in the original work. Did sensei also supervise the settings for attacks in this game?
A201.
I can't recall so I probably didn't touch it. Luppi fighting with outstretched arms is so entertaining to me. I think that outlaw kind of feeling is one of the greatest qualities about games back then.
Q202.
2021.09.20
Of all the characters you have drawn, which one did sensei consider the most difficult to design?
A202.
Shun Shun Rikka, or rather the image of Orihime's abilities is the one thing which changed the most without quite clicking together. Initially, the story was that Orihime herself would grow Horns and sprout a tail, becoming sort of like a dragon girl.
Q203.
2021.09.20
Sensei, is there any character that you have drawn who makes you think "this guy is insufferable"?
A203.
There isn't. I draw while thinking “this is so scummy, that's the best thing about it.”
Q204.
2021.09.20
Does Kubo-sensei have any fetish? When I look at sensei's drawings, I can't help but speculate that you like slender wrists and long fingers, regardless of gender.
A204.
I don't have any particular fetish. I think it's because I draw illustrations using my own hands as reference.
Q205.
2021.09.20
Regarding Ichimaru Gin's eye color, I believe it was red around the early days of the anime, and then changed to blue in the latter half. What does Kubo-sensei think of his red eyes around this early stage? Also, as far as Kubo-sensei's canon is concerned, is it safe to assume Ichimaru Gin's eye color is blue?
A205.
In the early days, the checks were not being handed down to me so they ended up being red. For the record, the anime related mistakes were errors made by my editor at the time who didn't bring the checks to me. Because of this, I drew Gin with his eyes open on the cover of volume 20.
Q206.
2021.09.20
Rukia's visuals in the live-action adaptation has become quite a hot topic of conversation, but was the matter reviewed by Kubo-sensei?
A206.
I had made it clear from the beginning that I would not be involved with the live-action project, so basically the whole thing was given the okay. Even regarding Rukia's hair, there was a conversation where they said "we'd like to go ahead with this" so I assumed there was a clear vision but it turns out there wasn't. I don't dislike the movie itself. Renji was extremely good.
Q207.
2021.09.27
Kubo-sensei, to what extent do you supervise merchandise and so on? I'm very happy that a lot of BLEACH merch has been released recently.
A207.
I feel like I'm supervising the things my editor can't make a judgment call on. Speaking of editors, they try their best to avoid handing over supervision duties to authors so that they can allow authors to concentrate on their creations, but after the series had ended, I had some free time so my editor has started bringing me more supervision duties than before.
Q208.
2021.09.27
If it were to come true, would you ever wish for a BLEACH anime adaptation, which faithfully follows the original work, to be broadcast by way of a remake?
A208.
I think I would.
Q209.
2021.09.27
It seems that the 2021 art exhibition will only be held at one location in Tokyo, but would it be possible for you to consider holding it at a variety of other locations? I'm really looking forward to it, but I'm sure there are many people across the country who live a considerable distance away and can't make it. It's a wonderful opportunity, so I think it will be easier to visit if it is hosted in various locations. I think it's a really difficult task, but I would be grateful if you could consider it just once.
A209.
I also want to show the exhibit to my parents, so I hope it will be held in Hiroshima.
Q210.
2021.09.27
Even though Byakuya and Ichika-chan never interact in the original work, I can easily imagine Byakuya being an uncle. I wonder why that is?
A210.
I can imagine it too. Byakuya's face whenever he tells her "kamawanu*"…. (*It's fine/I don't mind)
Q211.
2021.09.27
In volume 58, chapter 518, when Grimmjow was trying to interrupt Urahara and Ichigo's communication, Urahara instructed Orihime and Sado to "use the you-know-what to chase him back outside the tent", but what exactly was the "you-know-what"? What in the world is it, that it can throw Grimmjow off balance to such a degree…? I've been wondering about this for a long time.
A211.
It's a device which emits a sound that Grimmjow dislikes.
Q212.
2021.09.27
Is Ninny-chan easier to draw than Noel-chan?? I was curious because there are more illustrations drawn of Ninny-chan!
A212.
This is because the clothes I want to draw tend to suit Ninny better. If you have big breasts, it's probably difficult to find clothes that suit you.
Q213.
2021.10.04
Ginrei is Byakuya's grandfather, but Kyōraku did not mention his name as a Shinigami who has been Captain for 100 years or more, so perhaps his career as a Captain was rather short?
A213.
I forgot to mention him! Let's just pretend it was Shunsui's blunder.
Q214.
2021.10.04
Do you find that characters of a certain age group are easy to draw, and conversely, characters of a different age group difficult to draw?
A214.
I'm not very good at drawing children or toddlers.
Q215.
2021.10.04
I have been curious about Tsubokura Rin-kun of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. Rin-kun's hair wasn't filled in when he was in monochrome, I thought for certain he had pale blonde or white hair. However, in the anime his hair was dark brown … so as far as you are concerned sensei, what colors did you imagine when designing him?
A215.
Was that the color it turned out to be? The image I had in mind is a pale sepia-like color.
Q216.
2021.10.04
Isn't it too bothersome to draw Grimmjow's hairstyle??
A216.
It's too bothersome isn't it? I wonder if you could give him a stiff pompadour instead?
Q217.
2021.10.04
Do you remember the first game you ever played?
A217.
It's "GeGeGe no Kitarō - Yōkai Daimakyō" which was purchased for me together with the Famicom unit itself.
Q218.
2021.10.04
Do you get asked to draw portraits by acquaintances?
A218.
I have always refused all portrait requests from both friends and celebrities.
Q219.
2021.10.11
What is Kensei's specialty dish?
A219.
It's "Whole Pumpkin Gratin". The highlight for him is the part where he gets to use his bare hands.
Q220.
2021.10.11
When I saw the Playlist on KlubOutside, I was surprised at the wide scope of Sensei's music choices. How do you discover new music?
A220.
SoundHound is my recommendation.
Q221.
2021.10.11
Is the bellyband worn by the Shinigami Men's Association the same as the one worn by Kirinji Tenjirō?
A221.
It's different. The bellyband Tenjirō wears was made by Senjumaru.
Q222.
2021.10.11
Now that I think of it, what does "Whiskrs" mean? I looked into it, and although there are some existing terms, I couldn't find anything in particular with regard to its meaning. I don't know whether sensei came up with the name or not, but perhaps it envelopes some special meaning?
A222.
It's a modified spelling of the word "whiskers". I came up with the name, or to be more specific, it's originally the name of a store that exists within the BTW universe. Though, this still has yet to make an appearance in the story.
Q223.
2021.10.11
When you go out, have you ever had a fan recognize you as Kubo-sensei and then attempt to speak with you?
A223.
A long time ago, another author wound up uploading a photo of a drinking party I was with to Twitter in the middle of the get-together, the restaurant was identified from the photograph and I was ambushed. It was late at night and I was on my way home alone, so it was really scary. That was probably the one and only time I was approached on the street.
Q224.
2021.10.11
Sensei, have you ever felt negatively about your own work in the past? I am currently creating works with the goal of becoming a designer, but unfortunately I feel embarrassed to display even the things I have created very recently in front of others. How do you overcome this from your perspective, sensei?
A224.
When I first became a manga artist, I felt embarrassed when my editor read my draft right in front of me. If you are creating something that personally satisfies you, you're just not accustomed to showing it to the average person, so you have no choice but to show it to a bunch of people and get used to it.
Q225.
2021.10.11
Have you ever had a character Awakened in Brave Souls? If so, I would like to know which character it is.
A225.
It's Fierce Battle Aizen. Though, it's more like I just ended up Awakening him when I was targeting others.
Q226.
2021.10.18
In the work, it was never once stated from a reliable source that Tōshirō's Bankai comes undone once his petals dissipate, but what actually happened when his petals fell away during the period he had an imperfect Bankai?
A226.
Hitsugaya would injure himself after going through an imperfect growth.
Q227.
2021.10.18
When Rangiku had collapsed, Gin said "the fact that you passed out from hunger, it means that you have it too, right? Spiritual Power." and in Volume 11, there is a description from the exchange between Rukia and Renji that those with Spiritual Power feel hungry. But why didn't Hitsugaya realize he had powers until he dreamed of Hyōrinmaru?
A227.
Because his grandmother taught him that "only children get hungry.”
Q228.
2021.10.18
Why did Orihime's Rikka grow larger when Chad and Orihime returned from training in the final arc? I was curious because no one touched on the matter.
A228.
That's because Kisuke modified it to match her clothes (a cover was installed on the outside of the pins to make them difficult to break), but nobody said anything because they didn't think it was particularly worth mentioning.
Q229.
2021.10.18
When I was looking at "Hirako glasses" which was updated on the Gallery's Graffiti section, I became curious, what is that thing Hirako Shinji is holding in his mouth? Considering the hot drink in his left hand, maybe it's a cinnamon stick or something?
A229.
It's a cigarillo that he's holding in his mouth purely for fashion. I looked into it when I drew it but I couldn't find anything that matched the size I imagined.
Q230.
2021.10.25
Good evening! The work titled "maturity" in the gallery that was released on April 3, 2021, could that be Mayuri-sama?
A230.
It's Mayuri. When I tried to type the title "mayuri", I accidentally tapped on the wrong suggestion and entered that instead, I left it as it is because it's a pain to change it.
Q231.
2021.10.25
Did Ikkaku make the strap that Ichika has attached to her bag in JET?
A231.
That's right.
Q232.
2021.10.25
In BLEACH, how much influence did the ranking results of popularity polls have on a character's level of activity?
A232.
It's irrelevant. I'm the type who thinks "isn't that kind of thing discourteous to characters with few votes?"
Q233.
2021.10.25
Regarding the art exhibition, is it possible to increase the number of venues? I would absolutely love to participate, but due to the current situation, it is quite difficult to travel to Tokyo. Nevertheless, there are many fans of sensei and his work around the world. Although this is a very presumptuous request, I would be extremely grateful if you could consider it. Best regards.
A233.
I'll let my editor know! Murakoshi-saaan!!
Q234.
2021.10.25
Sensei, given that you play a lot of Dragon Quest, I was curious, is "Zaraki" - the district of Rukongai which Zaraki Kenpachi took as his name - based on the spell "Thwack" (*Zaraki in Japanese).
A234.
That's correct. Hold on, have I never mentioned this before?
Q235.
2021.11.01
Is there any reason why Kyōraku-san couldn't grace the cover of a tankōbon? I wanted him to have a cover.
A235.
It's just a coincidence. I wanted to draw it too.
Q236.
2021.11.01
Are Renji's tattoos only on the upper half of his body? Do they not continue down to his thighs?
A236.
They don't continue down. Wait? Have I never drawn his thighs before?
Q237.
2021.11.01
Is the double chant that Rukia recited during the fight against Aaroniero, simply the Sōren Sōkatsui chant split in two, with the Rikujōkōrō chant sandwiched in-between? Or does the substance of the chant change slightly depending on whether each is invoked independently or as a double chant?
A237.
It's a shortened version of Rikujōkōrō inserted between the full version of Sōren Sōkatsui. The effectiveness of the spells will increase if you perform both chants in full, but the time efficiency will decrease, so that would diminish the purpose of a two layered chant.
Q238.
2021.11.01
When a Zanpakutō is inherited from another person like in the case of Tōsen and Kenpachi, will the essence of its soul be overwritten? Or will it be made to mix with the essence of the previous owner?
A238.
Generally it is overwritten, but in some cases it may mix.
Q239.
2021.11.08
Were there any foreshadowing elements that made you go "ultimately, nobody noticed, huh?" up to the end of the BLEACH serialization? If so, is it likely there will be an opportunity to present it somewhere?
A239.
After I've finished playing a game or watching a movie, I like spending time alone thinking about what happened here and there or discussing with others about this and that. I want to create moments like that, so there are some parts where I try to depict things in a way that is not easily noticed, that's why unless someone correctly points it out, I try not to say much.
Q240.
2021.11.08
Why didn't Ryūken give Uryū the "ken" (弦) character in his name? ×[1]
A240.
Because he was thinking that he didn't want to let Uryū become Quincy.
Q241.
2021.11.08
How far have you progressed in Monster Hunter? If there is a monster that you like among the monsters that appear in this title, please tell me about it!
A241.
I haven't played in a while. In this title I like Goss Harag.
Q242.
2021.11.08
Can I post the photos from the gallery on social media??!?!?
A242.
I guess it's not allowed, going by the FC rules. You can post my dog from Deskside at least.
Q243.
2021.11.15
Have you ever had to change a scene you originally wanted in order to make the depiction more in line with Jump guidelines? If so, which scene is it and how did you truly want to draw it?
A243.
During the time Jump had a large circulation, extremely graphic depictions were not allowed, so I had to redraw some of the places where Mayuri appears. The first thing I fixed was the scene where his squad members die in an explosion.
Q244.
2021.11.15
There are characters for whom the theme music feels perfect, and on the other hand, others for whom the theme music is unexpected. By listening to each character's song, I feel like I am able to learn more about a character's inner being, it's so much fun! When deciding on a song, which does sensei place more importance on: the lyrics, or the melody?
A244.
It's only about the melody, sound and vocal quality. If it's the case that the lyrics also match, it's just a coincidence.
Q245.
2021.11.15
The market for e-books has grown larger, but when it comes to electronic and physical copy, people often say things like "you should buy the physical book!" What do you think?
A245.
Either one is fine. Even I read most of my manga electronically now. I like making paper books but I think physical paper copies will become more of a collector's item in the near future.
Q246.
2021.11.15
Kubo-sensei draws many animals, but are there any that you particularly enjoy drawing?
A246.
Right now it's dogs. Since owning a dog, I've started to grow fond of animals, so I feel like I may reach a point where I'm able to draw animals a little better now.
Q247.
2021.11.15
If there was an entrance song for Chad's boxing match, I wonder what kind of music it would be? If you have a song in mind that you can imagine for this scenario, please share the artist's name and song title with us.
A247.
It would be "Apache" by Michael Viner's Incredible Bongo Band.
Q248.
2021.11.22
An illustration of Tatsuki wearing a Shihakushō exists, did you originally plan to have her transform into a Shinigami?
A248.
The one I drew for Jump Festa a long time ago, right? That's just an illustration I drew for Jump Festa that one time.
Q249.
2021.11.22
It seems like Rukia often wears dresses in the Human World, is there some reason why? If you have any particular preferences regarding the clothing choices of the BLEACH cast, please by all means, tell us about it!
A249.
I'll give you three example reasons for why they wear what they wear:
Orihime's body type makes it difficult for her to wear a dress.
I wanted to make a physically active Rukia stand out by making her wear clothes that are ill suited for physical activity.
Rukia was wearing hakama in Soul Society, so she's not familiar with fitted clothes.
Q250.
2021.11.22
You may not remember this … but during an autograph signing session, I was the one who announced "I'm getting married to my boyfriend who I initially became friends with through BLEACH!" We broke up at lightning speed after that! (Peace sign.) But sometimes we hang out and are on good terms as friends. Now my question is, what is sensei's favorite color?
A250.
My condolences. It's orange.
Q251.
2021.11.22
In the JET Q&A segment, you replied that the Vice-Captains of the 13th Division ten years later would be Sentarō and Kiyone, but I believe Kiyone was also the Vice-Captain of the 4th Division, so does that mean that they are concurrently serving as Vice-Captains?
A251.
That would be a mistake. Sentarō is the only Vice-Captain of the 13th.
Q252.
2021.11.29
Please tell us how Unagiya Ikumi-san and Ichigo met in the first place.
A252.
Their meeting came about when Ichigo delivered Kaoru, a lost child (and Ikumi's son) back to his mother. (Ikumi encountered them en route.)
Q253.
2021.11.29
Ichigo remembers the time Orihime carried her older brother Sora to the Kurosaki Clinic, but does Orihime remember meeting Ichigo at this time? When Ichigo entered high school, he noticed that Orihime was the girl from back then, does Orihime realize that it was Ichigo who greeted her at that moment?
A253.
Ichigo is the only one who remembers. Ichigo remembers that scene clearly because he felt a strong sense of one-way sympathy for Orihime, who was on the verge of losing her family.
Q254.
2021.11.29
Sensei, what's the one thing that makes you think "I'm second to none when it comes to this!"?
A254.
My Mickey Mouse impression.
Q255.
2021.11.29
I got the impression that Aizen-sama was often drinking black tea at Las Noches, but I wonder if likewise he drank Japanese tea during the time he was in Soul Society in the role of a Shinigami? Or is it that Western style food and drink like black tea also exist in Soul Society, and he has been a black tea enthusiast since long ago?
A255.
I drew that because I wanted a scene where Aizen eats the same thing as the Espada, but when it came to eating, there were some characters (like Ulquiorra) who I didn't want to depict in a dining scene (at that point), so I merely chose black tea as a compromise, therefore it's not that I was paying any particular attention to tea itself.
Q256.
2021.12.06
Is it possible for a member of the Gotei 13 to transfer to another Squad at their own behest? Recruitment of Captains or Vice-Captains from other Squads has been portrayed, but what is the situation like for ordinary soldiers?
A256.
It is possible if they make an application and obtain permission through their superior officer all the way up to the Captain. However, If they don't have any accomplishments their superior will reject it so it's difficult for an ordinary soldier.
Q257.
2021.12.06
Do you have a favorite coffee shop?
A257.
The place I frequent the most is Hoshino Coffee. I want to go to Komeda but I haven't had the chance to go yet.
Q258.
2021.12.06
What kind of life did Ikkaku-san and Shino-chan lead in Rukongai? I'm not sure if they're related by blood or not, but are they still family?
A258.
They're ordinary relatives. The Madarame family are a distinguished family and Ikkaku is treated like an oddball.
Q259.
2021.12.06
What do you order when you use services like Uber Eats for delivery?
A259.
The thing I order the most is Starbucks' White Mocha. By the way, I don't use Uber because I had a scary experience in the past.
Q260.
2021.12.06
I would like a YouTube channel or something to be created for Uni-chan.
A260.
If I could get someone to do the editing for me, then I would like to make one to document my dog's growth, but I don't think I would update it often….
Q261.
2021.12.13
If you were to spend a day with any character from "BLEACH" or "BURN THE WITCH", who would you like to be with?
A261.
I seriously thought about it, but maybe being with Balgo would be the easiest….
Q262.
2021.12.13
Speaking in terms of BLEACH characters, who would you compare the breast sizes of Noel-chan and Cquntnire-san to?
A262.
It's more or less that I'm drawing Noel like Orihime and Cquntnire like Nel.
Q263.
2021.12.13
What is Kubo-sensei's favorite rock or metal band?
A263.
I haven't been listening to much metal lately…during my high school days, I liked ROYAL HUNT and IN FLAMES.
Q264.
2021.12.13
This is closer to a request than a question, but I would like for you to issue and sell, the currently trending, NFTs with BLEACH illustrations! If that were to happen, I would definitely buy them!
A264.
I'll let my editor know about this also. Murakoshi-saaan!
Q265.
2021.12.13
What is your favorite ice cream?
A265.
Lately, I've been liking HERSHEY'S Chocolate Ice Bars. It's also nice that each bar is small and just the right size.
Q266.
2021.12.20
I have a question regarding BTW Magic. In chapter 0.8 which is a one-shot, Noel-chan uses Absolute Dragon Shatter in Front London, but in chapter 1, numbered Pipers spells known as "Magic" made an appearance. As a premise, I believe that Magic and Absolute Dragon Shatter are alike (as they both use Witch Kits), I suspect that the reason why Noel-chan adopted this unnumbered attack method in Front London may be due to one of the following two points:
1. Magic is an attack method that utilizes the medium of Witch Kits to feed on a special energy similar to Reishi which exists only in Reverse London, on the other hand, Absolute Dragon Shatter is an attack method made for Front London, which does not require this special Reishi.
2. Given that it was an attack against a Disguiser Dragon who had remained hidden for ten odd years, Absolute Dragon Shatter was used as an arcane means and is considered the highest order of Magic or even a method surpassing Magic itself.
I'm really interested about the relationship between Magic and Absolute Dragon Shatter, will it be revealed within the story in the future!?
A266.
How insightful, I'm not sure whether or not I'll get to write about it in the future so I'll explain. In Front London, you can basically only use spells through items that are "charged" with magical power. The gun-pipe is not a rechargeable item, but Noel habitually fills it with magical power of her own accord, the release of that power is Absolute Dragon Shatter. Only Noel is able to use it.
Q267.
2021.12.20
The person Ichigo respects is Shakespeare. Given this fact, does it follow that this is a universe where eminent figures like Mozart and Napoleon existed?
A267.
Eminent figures certainly exist within the Soul Society too, but if I were to touch upon that, the manga would end up in a completely different place, so I didn't bring it up.
Q268.
2021.12.20
Do Szayelaporro's glasses have lenses? Since it's a mask, there should be no lenses so I assumed it was the frame alone. However in the anime, there were depictions of lenses reflecting the light and gleaming so I was confused!
A268.
There is no lens.
Q269.
2021.12.20
Were all the designs of the Zanpakutō which materialized in the Zanpakutō: The Alternate Tale arc, created by you, sensei?
A269.
I came up with some ideas and had an image in mind, Kudō-san designed them, I checked them. They pass for various reasons like being "just as I imagined!" or being "interesting because I wouldn't have come up with this design myself!"
Q270.
2021.12.27
Do you have a favorite character from Dragon Quest numbered titles or spin-off works?
A270.
It's King Grossner (Dragon Quest 10).
Q271.
2021.12.27
I heard that you like figure skating, Kubo-sensei, but do you have a favorite athlete?
A271.
It's Candeloro.
Q272.
2021.12.27
It is mentioned in the novel "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU", that when Shiba Kaien died in battle, Isshin was the Captain of Squad 10. Why didn't Rukia, who was already serving as a member of the Gotei 13 at the time, realize that Ichigo's father was Shiba Isshin when she was freeloading off of the Kurosaki family?
A272.
There are two reasons for this: for one, his outward appearance was completely different. Secondly, he was a Captain from another Squad and she was a regular soldier, so they didn't have much point of contact in the first place. To go further, given that there is no way for a Shinigami to have children with a human (only Kisuke knows how), the idea that a "Shinigami may become human and produce children in the Human World" did not occur to Rukia.
Q273.
2022.01.03
I like the accessories (hats, sunglasses, etc.) and clothes that the characters are wearing in KlubOutside's Graffiti, they are exceedingly stylish. Is it possible to put them up for sale?
A273.
I will let the FC manager know about this. Totani-saaan!
Q274.
2022.01.03
Sensei, do you have any plans to publish, for instance, the yonkoma you drew for the magazine into a single book someday?
A274.
It might have been published in JET.
Q275.
2022.01.03
When you were writing BTW, who came to your mind first between Ninny and Noel?
A275.
Out of all the characters in BTW, Noel was the first.
Q276.
2022.01.03
When Rukia entered her name into the family register, it's assumed that she did not change her last name, but now that she has become a Captain, it means there will be two Captain Kuchiki, so how do the other troops distinguish between the two when addressing them? Is it possible that she will revert to the Abarai surname?
A276.
Many of the troops differentiate between them by calling them Captain Kuchiki and 13th Captain Kuchiki.
Q277.
2022.01.10
Did Zangetsu eventually return to being a single blade? The "Ten Years Later" version of Ichigo was implemented in the social game - Brave Souls, and he wielded the "Zangetsu which emerged from a broken Tensa Zangetsu" as seen in the final stages of the Thousand-Year Blood War arc. Zangetsu which was reforged into two swords for Hollow and Quincy, became one as Tensa Zangetsu in Bankai, so I thought for sure it would return to two swords once the Bankai is disengaged.
However, does this mean that Zangetsu did not return to two swords due to the fact that after activating Bankai, Ichigo's Hollow and Quincy powers were absorbed by Yhwach, and that his Bankai was damaged among other factors? Or is it that it's possible for Ichigo to wield both the dual swords and the single sword if he so desires?
It may just be game original staging to begin with, but I was intrigued.
A277.
Since I haven't described this in detail nor do I plan to portray the matter any further, I'll give you an answer. The two blades of Zangetsu are the "sword" and the "sheath". The correct form of a Zanpakutō is one that has a sheath, and there are only two swords without one: Sayafushi and Zangetsu. What fixed Zangetsu into its "correct form" is the dual swords state, and in Bankai Zangetsu is placed back in its sheath, what emerged after that sheath was shattered is the "True Zangetsu". The shattered sheath was absorbed by Ichigo, so I think he is also able to return to dual blades if he wants to, but I suppose that depends on Ichigo himself.
Q278.
2022.01.17
I've always wondered about this since reading volume 12, but was there a physical relationship between Aizen and Hinamori? I think it's more fitting for Aizen to not engage in this sort of thing, so I'm on the side that says it didn't happen.
A278.
I won't answer this because I think it'll be more fun to leave it unanswered.
Q279.
2022.01.17
Is Hōzukimaru a rare type of Zanpakutō which always requires the sheath for its Shikai.
A279.
That's right.
Q280.
2022.01.17
Kubo-sensei, when it comes to TVs, are you in favor of wall-mounted? Or do you prefer freestanding?
A280.
Mine is attached to a wall storage unit with an extendable arm.
Q281.
2022.01.24
Upon being granted a letter, does the Schrift allow abilities to manifest based on the nature of an individual? Or does His Majesty already know what they are before granting it at the epithet stage.
A281.
Yhwach can see words almost as if they were engraved on the individual's body. Those who are bestowed Schrifts, which were previously lost through death in battle and so on, are discovered from the words engraved on them and then given power.
Q282.
2022.01.24
Do Yōkai and Yōsei exist in the world of BLEACH?
A282.
It would be more fun if they did.
Q283.
2022.01.24
A color version of the BLEACH e-books exist, but does Kubo-sensei decide on the color scheme and such?
A283.
There are parts that I check and parts that I don't (I only check what my editor asks me to check), but even the parts that I do were decided upon rapidly in the intervals between my work schedule during serialization, so when I look at them afterwards, I often come to think "was this the kind of color I chose??”
Q284.
2022.01.31
Sensei, if you had the opportunity to be involved in a project in the future, what sort of creative work would you like to be involved in? (Live-action film, animated movies, manga, dramas, YouTube, etc.)
A284.
If I could get involved with the story aspect, then it would probably be a game.
Q285.
2022.01.31
If you could actually sell any kind of merchandise at the fan club shop, what kind of items would you want to sell?
A285.
Bracelets with the text from the opening poems.
Q286.
2022.01.31
Is the reason why Uryū was not affected by Auswählen connected to Uryū's grandfather?
A286.
There's a bit of a complicated setup regarding this, but it might appear in the anime adaptation of the Thousand-Year Blood War arc. (Depending on the composition.)
Q287.
2022.02.07
It has already been decided that the Thousand-Year Blood War arc is getting an anime adaptation, but will there also be an anime adaptation of the side story novels? I'd especially like to see "WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU" in the anime which depicts Rukia and Renji's marriage and the progress of Ichigo and Orihime's relationship.
A287.
Ah, I see. If there is enough room, then it may be possible.
Q288.
2022.02.07
Is it not true that Gigi is a girl? It kind of seems like Yumichika only said otherwise to provoke her.
A288.
Giselle is a man.
Q289.
2022.02.07
Who was the one to slash Rukia from behind during the first invasion by the Sternritter?
A289.
The plan is to depict this in the anime version.
Q290.
2022.02.14
Is the giant spoon used by Hikifune Kirio of Squad Zero actually her Zanpakutō?
A290.
That's correct.
Q291.
2022.02.14
During the performance of the ROCK MUSICAL BLEACH, Kubo-sensei personally talked to Tsuchiya-san, who played the role of Gin, about Gin's true intentions and purpose, as he was having a difficult time interpreting the character, and Gin's true intentions had not yet been revealed within the story at the time. I remember there was an episode which went something like that, but in so doing, did you also discuss everything which occurred with regard to Rangiku and Aizen? Also, did you not have any reluctance to divulge information which has not yet been revealed in the story?
A291.
I feel that we talked about things like how Gin viewed each character rather than the story itself. If it is necessary for the performance, then there is a possibility that I may also convey undisclosed information to the voice actors so it's not limited to this particular occasion.
Q292.
2022.02.14
Is the "table with English language BLEACH quotes suspended inside its transparent legs" which you wrote about in the cover flap comment of Volume 44, still being used? I would love to see photos of sensei's favorite furniture and more!
A292.
I use it when I'm composing my drafts at home. The tabletop is in disarray, so I hope a photo of the legs will do.
Q293.
2022.02.21
With regard to the role of a Shinigami, it involves cleansing Hollows of their sins by way of a Zanpakutō and sending them to Soul Society in peace, but was this role simply to extinguish Hollows until Nimaiya Ōetsu showed up?
A293.
It was only after the creation of the Gotei 13 that the role of a Shinigami was properly defined.
Q294.
2022.02.21
At what age did Chad get his tattoo? Was it when he moved to Mexico? Or did he get it inked in his own hometown in Okinawa? I would be grateful if you could tell us.
A294.
He got his tattoo in Mexico when he was 9 years old.
Q295.
2022.02.21
I heard that the Lost Agent of the Shinigami arc concluded earlier than planned, is that true? If so, I'd like you to tell us about the story you were actually planning to write.
A295.
You mean the rumor that I was planning to compose an episode for all the classmates but I got bored and decided against it? If so, then it's true. I feel like I mentioned that in a character book or something.
Q296.
2022.02.21
Have you ever wanted to draw Oiroke manga? (*Manga with light erotic content.)
A296.
I'm not confident that I'd be able to draw it well.
Q297.
2022.02.28
In the BLEACH PS2 game "Bleach: Erabareshi Tamashii", techniques such as "Hadō #20: Shōtenkyū" and "Hadō #26: Gōensai" made an appearance, but were these Kidō Kubo-sensei's ideas or the creations of the game staff? If it's the former, I'd also like to know how to write it in kanji!
A297.
I had no involvement with that so they're the creations of the game staff.
Q298.
2022.02.28
I really love the relationship between Ichigo and the store manager, Unagiya Ikumi, and you can sense in the air how Ichigo suddenly turns back into a child. Please tell us if there was anything you paid extra attention to when creating Ikumi-san.
A298.
Ikumi is a character that was born because I wanted to create a place for Ichigo where he could be himself outside the Kurosaki home due to a plot development, that is, the sudden loss of a place where he belongs in the Lost Agent arc.
Q299.
2022.02.28
In "BURN THE WITCH", it seems that each division is armed with a different type of weapon, but in the event that they change affiliations, like how Bruno encouraged the witches to do in the story, do they undergo training with new weapons?
A299.
They train with new weapons. It is also among the Director's faculties to ascertain an individual's suitability for a weapon and then offer an invitation to them.
Q300.
2022.03.07
Is the thing under Hisagi's left eye, tape? A tattoo perhaps?
A300.
It's a tattoo.
Translation Footnotes:
×1. 弦 means bowstring and is in both the names of Sōken (宗弦) and Ryūken (竜弦).
Renji is my favorite character, but my surprise exceeded my delight at seeing him as Ichigo's counterpart on the cover of the JET illustration collection. I would like to know if there is a reason why you chose Renji as the paired character?
A101.
On the contrary, I've never once thought of Ichigo's counterpart as anyone other than Renji.
Q102.
2021.05.10
Are there any recent Jump manga that you find interesting?
A102.
Jump manga have been interesting lately huh? My absolute favorites are Undead Unluck and SAKAMOTO DAYS. And recently, High School Family: Kokosei Kazoku too.
Q103.
2021.05.17
Are Harribel-sama's Fracción (Apacci, Sung-Sun and Mila Rose) modeled after Nocchi, KASHIYUKA and a-chan from the music group "Perfume"?
A103.
A long time ago, I was asked the same question by the individuals in question themselves. It's an incorrect assumption, however I like Perfume so I don't mind.
Q104.
2021.05.17
I have a question about the illustrations published in the Gallery's Guidelines on KlubOutside. Are the numbers noted on the side the Copic color number?
A104.
This is the screentone number (a polka dot pattern film that is cut and pasted onto an analog manuscript.)
Q105.
2021.05.17
Have you ever watched professional wrestling?
A105.
I used to watch WWE (known as WWF back then) quite often around the time The Rock was at his peak.
Q106.
2021.05.17
Did someone give Rōjūrō the nickname "Rose" because it was difficult to call him "Rōjūrō"?
A106.
Rose gave himself that nickname because he thinks it's cool.
Q107.
2021.05.17
Why does Ninny wear suspenders in the BTW anime?
A107.
When they saw her wearing it in the color spread for the one-shot, the anime team said "it's cute so is it okay if she wears it the whole time in the anime?"
Q108.
2021.05.24
I think the illustrations from Brave Souls at this opportune time captures the essence of the original work and is incredibly cool, as the original author, what sort of impressions do you have of the Brave Souls illustrations?
A108.
I think it's getting better with each passing year. The design roughs that are submitted for supervision are also excellent.
Q109.
2021.05.24
Where do you start from when making a drawing?
A109.
When I'm not doing a rough underdrawing, I start from the bone around the eyebrows.
Q110.
2021.05.24
I'd like to know about what you've purchased and found useful recently, or something that you're enjoying.
A110.
A Yogibo Pod, Tom Ford sneakers, JINS PC glasses.
Q111.
2021.05.24
Is the playlist on KlubOutside the list that Kubo-sensei is listening to?
A111.
I'm uploading the songs I often listen to in real time.
Q112.
2021.05.24
Did Kubo-sensei decide the OP and ED songs for the anime?
A112.
Basically that doesn't involve me. Occasionally, I'd receive a demo version, and there were also times when I gave a little input when it didn't feel like much of an opening theme.
Q113.
2021.05.31
Will you ever publish a continuation of your one-shot stories like Rune Master Urara.
A113.
Urara had a story prepared for the purpose of serialization but it didn't get past the serialization meeting because it had a female protagonist in a battle setting and the story was hellishly dark. I'm not interested in drawing dark stories right now, but I might do it if I get a lot of free time.
Q114.
2021.05.31
Kubo-sensei, please tell us your favorite font (like Ming typeface or Gothic typeface etc.)
A114.
During BLEACH's serialization, I liked Impact.
Q115.
2021.05.31
Byakuya-san said that Ichigo was only the second person to ever bear witness to his Senkei, but who was the first person to have seen it?
A115.
I can't answer this here.
Q116.
2021.05.31
Regarding the animation production, you mentioned that it would make your stomach hurt while watching it at home due to discrepancies that arose from your lack of involvement in its early days. But, from approximately what episode did Tite-sensei get his hands involved in the production?
A116.
Starting from the Bount arc, I began to do only dialogue checks in the script for the characters belonging to the original work, just before recording.
Q117.
2021.05.31
Old-man Zangetsu tried to reveal his name while in Kurosaki Ichigo-kun's inner world, but it was blocked out with black ink and he was unable to convey his message. Was this the work of Hyōsube Ichibē.
A117.
That's correct.
Q118.
2021.06.07
Is "Rondanini's black dog" Kotodama originating from the West Branch of Soul Society? ×[1]
A118.
That's right.
Q119.
2021.06.07
Your photos of Uni-chan are very beautiful, did you take them with a digital camera? Or was it a smartphone?
A119.
A smartphone.
Q120.
2021.06.07
Did Captain Hitsugaya and Rangiku-san realize that Ichigo is Shiba Isshin's son when they came to the Human World as part of the Hitsugaya advance team?
A120.
Both of them realized.
Q121.
2021.06.07
It's come to be that Gin's Special Move in Brave Souls is "Shukyoku - Kamishini no Yari, Butō: Renjin." Is this "Shukyoku" an established concept in the original work?
A121.
That's heart Gin isn't it? It's a game original expression.
Q122.
2021.06.07
When you listen to a character's theme song, it can heighten the depth of each individual considerably, so I enjoy having the opportunity to listen to them. At what stage in the development of a character are these theme songs decided?
A122.
It depends on the character. Some characters change midway through the drawing process.
Q123.
2021.06.14
What kind of thoughts went into the name "Tite", Kubo-sensei's pen-name? The alphabetical notation has always been "Tite" rather than "Taito", but is there some reason for that? Furthermore, I'm also curious as to why the unusual character "帯" is used in your name.
A123.
It means something like "one's head is always filled with many people." ×[2]
Q124.
2021.06.14
When Kurotsuchi Mayuri's bare face was revealed for the first time, his skin color was dark, but was that the case from the beginning? Also, will Kurotsuchi Mayuri's bare face never be seen again? He was more handsome than I expected.
A124.
This is about the anime? I recall watching the broadcast at the time and saying to my editor "his skin color is different!" The request for editorial supervision didn't come to me.
Q125.
2021.06.14
Which organization assigns names to Hollows?
A125.
There's a guy in charge of naming in the Shinigami Research and Development Institute.
Q126.
2021.06.14
In the final chapter, Orihime appeared as Ichigo's wife, but there was no ring on her left ring finger. Did Kubo-sensei forget to draw it? Or is it establishing that she's pregnant with her second child and her body is swollen, therefore she intentionally took off her ring?
A126.
Huh? You're right! I forgot to draw it.
Q127.
2021.06.14
Why were two Hyōrinmaru born?
A127.
I'd be happy if you could watch the movies as a parallel story rather than considering it part of the official canon.
Q128.
2021.06.21
How do you come up with the subtitle for each chapter? In BLEACH especially, most of the subtitles are in English and occasionally there is Japanese, but is there a particular emphasis placed on that? Additionally, I would be so glad if you could also tell us about any subtitles throughout your entire body of work that you are particularly fond of or any that evoke some special memory.
A128.
At the time, there was no other work yet which combined Japanese style clothing with the English alphabet, so I deliberately added English subtitles, and in special chapters I made a point of adding Japanese subtitles in order to leave an impression. In that sort of sense, many people may prefer the Japanese subtitles.
Q129.
2021.06.21
I was interested in manga artists' fan clubs and joined one! I started reading BLEACH for the first time last week and am currently on volume 22. I'm looking forward to getting to the final volume! I would really like to know who exactly is sensei's favorite character!?
A129.
Eh? You joined without reading BLEACH!? Is this person real…. I don't have a favorite character. On the whole, I like them all about the same and am equally uninterested in them about the same.
Q130.
2021.06.21
To what extent is Kubo-sensei involved with Brave Souls? Did you ever get to play it again?
A130.
The gameplay mechanics don't concern me, but I oversee the design for the anniversary characters and characters who appear to affect the main story similar to the novel variants. I returned to the game after a long hiatus during BTW, but I was surprised at just how much easier it has become to play.
Q131.
2021.06.21
How did you decide the names of your characters? Do you have some kind of image in mind when you come up with names like "Bambietta Basterbine" and "Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez" etc.?
A131.
Everything is named based on how it sounds and my own intuition. I genuinely love naming things, so I always have a list of names belonging to (or sound like they belong to) various nationalities, enough to accommodate several hundred characters. I often draw out names from there.
Q132.
2021.06.21
A fair amount of difference can be observed in Kubo-sensei's art style when comparing the first volume with the last volume, but did you intend for this change at the time the manga was being serialized? Or did it change over the course of drawing a large number of illustrations?
A132.
It's not so much a conscious effort, but more like a perpetual feeling that this isn't the best style for portraying my characters, and I'm trying to explore that while drawing. In the case of BLEACH, of course the final stages are closer to the ideal, and at present I'm even closer to that ideal compared to back then.
Q133.
2021.06.28
I believe Tōsen can Hollowfy → activate Resurrección, but can Ichigo and members of the Visored do this too? Does this mean that both Bankai and Resurrección are possible if they are in a Hollowfied state?
A133.
It's possible.
Q134.
2021.06.28
Is "Top of Horns" a metaphor for various genres of music? For example, I think Bruno represents rock and roll and Roy represents R&B.
A134.
It's different for Top of Horns, but it was actually like that for the Visored.
Q135.
2021.06.28
Please unveil the mystery behind "Ururu" and "Jinta". Who are they?
A135.
They are both Artificial Souls created by Kisuke.
Q136.
2021.06.28
In the illustrations for BLEACH, the characters are seen wearing western style clothes with various designs, but were these designs drawn independently by Kubo-sensei himself.
A136.
All illustrations in the original work are my own designs, all illustrations from the anime do not concern me.
Q137.
2021.06.28
Sensei, when you draw an illustration, do you draw the figure and such without using any references, like an artist's mannequin?
A137.
I once went to check out an art supply store because I thought it would be cool to have a drawing mannequin in my workplace, like one of those skilled painters, but in the end I didn't buy it since I couldn't figure out how to correctly use it as a reference.
Q138.
2021.07.05
I like Senju Kōten Taihō and often chant it, does sensei have a favorite incantation to chant too?
A138.
I generally always like the newest ones the best, so right now it's probably Blue Spark or Supernal Jail.
Q139.
2021.07.05
Was the BLEACH logo sensei's idea?
A139.
That's correct. I had a logo which I drew myself brought to life by an acquaintance, Shueisha bought it and are using it. By the way, the logo on the first chapter spread of Zombiepowder is hand-drawn, and I had BTW use my hand-drawn logo as is.
Q140.
2021.07.05
When you were contemplating the map of Karakura Town, were there any places that you used as reference?
A140.
I sort of used my local town as reference but it turned out completely different.
Q141.
2021.07.05
If it's okay, I would like to know Hinamori Momo-san's name before the change. Also, besides Hinamori-san, are there any other characters whose names have been changed since the initial stages?
A141.
I changed it because it wasn't very good, so the original is a secret. Additionally, Hitsugaya had a completely different first name too until the very last moment of the manuscript. This is also a secret.
Q142.
2021.07.12
I have a question regarding Kira Izuru-kun's healing abilities and the history of his affiliations. He was first assigned to Captain Aizen's 5th Division, while there he was found to have an aptitude for Kaidō and was recruited to the 4th division, but does that mean that he was later poached by Ichimaru Gin of Squad 3?
A142.
When he was a member of Squad 4, it was Aizen who recommended the transfer to Unohana.
Q143.
2021.07.12
How was it that Kuna Mashiro came to be appointed as "Super Vice-Captain"? Is her armband official? (Personally, I think it's something she wilfully made on her own, or perhaps someone in her Squad prepared it just to placate her.)
A143.
When Kensei returned to the position of Captain, Mashiro pestered Kensei alone saying it's "unfair", so it's a post that Kensei made up himself without consulting anyone. The armband is also a complete fake made with shiny material in the hope that it would please Mashiro. Though, with a single glance Mashiro was satisfied.
Q144.
2021.07.12
In volume 31, when Grimmjow tried to break Loly's leg clean off, she says "if you stop, wait! We can make this our secret!" What was she trying to say next? I haven't spoken openly about it much since being told that I have a bad personality, but the scenario before and after that scene is one of my favorites!!
A144.
It was "I'll let you have your way with me." Loly's the kind of character who would deliver a line like that when she's in a desperate situation. A famous manga artist friend of mine once told me that he loved that scene too, so I think it's fine to openly discuss it.
Q145.
2021.07.12
I thought that the 5 members of the Bambies from the Wandenreich looked similar to Momoiro Clover Z, but what are the facts actually like?
A145.
The very first design motif I used for them was indeed Momoclo, but after I had finalized the characters I thought "well then, who is Gigi?" So I decided not to say anything. (I just said it.)
Q146.
2021.07.12
I'm really looking forward to the Ninny-chan and Noel-chan figurines, when will the news be updated?!
A146.
I'm looking forward to it too. I wonder when!?
Q147.
2021.07.12
Kubo-sensei, do you drink alcohol? If so, what kind of alcohol do you like?
A147.
I recently discovered that I'm able to drink if it's "Horoyoi*." I like the white one. (*Horoyoi is a brand of canned, alcoholic beverage in Japan.)
Q148.
2021.07.12
Do you have a favorite YouTuber?
A148.
I don't know if I can classify them as YouTubers, but I sometimes watch YouTube videos of people free diving then catching and eating strange fish.
Q149.
2021.07.19
Why is the Shihakushō, which can also be called the Shinigami uniform, black? Is it so that the Monk can enlist their help in case of an emergency?
A149.
The color was decided upon in the days of first Gotei generation, the reason was "so you wouldn't have to throw it away every time it gets stained with blood." However, your idea about the Monk would also make a good backstory.
Q150.
2021.07.19
How do members of the Sternritter perceive Giselle Gewelle's gender? Are they not aware of it, are they aware but pretending not to notice it, or are they just not interested in it? I would be glad if you could tell us.
A150.
It depends on the person.
Q151.
2021.07.19
I have a question concerning Kusajishi Yachiru. Is it a result of the fact that she was called by the name "Yachiru" that she herself possessed a Zanpakutō called "Sanpo Kenjū", while also being "Nozarashi" - the Zanpakutō of Zaraki Kenpachi?
Like Hihiō Zabimaru or Fuji Kujaku, there are many scenes where a Zanpakutō not called by its true name was unable to demonstrate its true power. I reckon "Nozarashi" bore the essence of a Shinigami and materialized as a consequence of being called by the name "Yachiru" - a Shinigami who actually exists, and perhaps because it was the name "Yachiru" (*Yachi = eight thousand, Ru = flows/styles), she acquired Sanpo Kenjū which was specialized for the act of cutting.
I'm quite curious about the true identity of Kusajishi Yachiru, so I'd be overjoyed if you could give us an answer.
A151.
Wow, amazing! It's not even written that Yachiru is Nozarashi, yet you managed to find your way here. You are mostly correct within the scope covered by your question. To go further, Yachiru is a form of Nozarashi's Bankai manifestation separated from its main body, and having received her name from Kenpachi, she harbored the power of a Shinigami. The embodiment of Nozarashi itself takes the form of a grown woman. I think it's easier to understand if I got you to imagine Zangetsu and Tensa Zangetsu.
Q152.
2021.07.19
Why are the names of Chad and Orihime's Fullbring not in English unlike the members of XCUTION? I was intrigued because sensei used different languages for naming depending on the faction.
A152.
Since these two are in a special category, their abilities were given names in their respective native languages.
Q153.
2021.07.19
With Madarame Ikkaku's appearance in the Fullbring chapters, attached to his right shoulder we see some kind of gold plated equipment with the kanji for "dragon" printed on it, is that his own work? I'm curious because it's established in the lore that he's good with his hands.
A153.
It's Ikkaku's own work.
Q154.
2021.07.19
What kind of person is the manager of ABCookies where Orihime worked?
A154.
I have the concept art for him. I ended up having so much fun while drawing him that he became a creepy old man, but he's a good person.
Q155.
2021.07.26
Did Baraggan not reveal his own rank, nor refer to himself as "Espada" due to his rivalry with Aizen?
A155.
That's right.
Q156.
2021.07.26
Please tell us your favorite places in Hiroshima!
A156.
I don't get to go back that often, but I like Soleil (now Aeon Mall). It's huge and exciting.
Q157.
2021.07.26
Is it intentional that the number of English words used in the subtitle from BLEACH chapter 679 "THE END" up to 683 "THE DARK SIDE OF TWO WORLD ENDS" increases with each chapter?
A157.
Yes.
Q158.
2021.07.26
Aizen said "From the very start, no one has stood upon the heavens," and while looking at Ukitake he said "not you, not I, nor even gods," but was this "you" here hinting at the connection between Ukitake and the Soul King?
A158.
That is correct.
Q159.
2021.07.26
The haori, jinbei, and hat which Urahara Kisuke wears in the Human World can probably be described as his only good clothes, did Urahara Kisuke himself purchase them at a Human World draper or something?
A159.
Those are all items Kisuke made himself.
Q160
2021.07.26
To what extent does Kubo-sensei supervise the color scheme of the digital color tankōbon?
A160.
I'm supposed to give them all a look over around the time of their debut, but since I'm making my checks while busy with other things during serialization, I sometimes find myself wondering "did I really choose this kind of color!?" In Brave Souls, occasionally the color of the skills just happen to change, well that is the reason why. I'm sorry!
Q161.
2021.08.02
Spanish is used for words related to the Arrancar and Hueco Mundo, German is used for words related to the Wandenreich and Quincy, but I would like to know why you chose these two languages? Does Kubo-sensei have a special attachment to both languages?
A161.
I think Spanish has a devilish charm, German has a hard-headed sound to it. By the way, when I told this story at an event in Germany, it was amusing to the Germans. It seems that the German people themselves consider the German national traits to be "idyllic and easygoing", apparently they found it amusing because of the disparity between this and my "hard-headed sound" assessment.
Q162.
In the 13BLADEs. "Frank Questions!" segment, you said that you haven't actually drawn a certain character's Bankai up to its final form yet, was that referring to adult Hitsugaya? If so, from what point in time did you decide you were going to draw the concept of a "slightly aged up" Hitsugaya?
A162.
I was talking about Hitsugaya. It was decided when Hitsugaya was designed therefore it was already decided by the time he debuted.
Q163.
2021.08.02
Kubo-sensei, please tell us the reason why you named your dog "Uni".
A163.
It's an anagram of 'inu'. Just kidding. I named my dog "Uni" because it was expected that her fur would become orange as she grew. It turned out to be a burnt mochi-like color though. ×[3]
Q164.
2021.08.02
Taking into account Isshin and Masaki's origins, it seems to me that Ichigo's grandparents do not exist in the Human World, but is "Grandpa Rin", whose name was mentioned in the Lost Agent arc, an individual who actually exists? Is he a relative of Tsukishima-san?
In the past, there was a "Love Bleach" film featured at a BLEACH event, but would you consider launching the actual product for sale in the future?!
A165.
"Love Bleach", wasn't that supposed to be some kind of dating simulation game? I guess, If a game company can make a profit, I don't see why not. ×[4]
Q166.
2021.08.02
I went to the opening day stage greeting for BURN THE WITCH! I saw on social media that sensei also came to see it, but where did you watch it from?
A166.
The seats on the 2nd floor are like cozy sofas. It was awesome.
Q167. *Deleted entry from KlubOutside*
2021.08.09
This is a question regarding the origins of the name "Yhwach". In the original work, it was derived from being called "Yū", "ha", "vē", "ha", but does this have its roots in the monotheistic God of Judaism and Christianity, "YHVH" (Jehovah, Yahweh)?
A167.
Originally the spelling of "Yhwach" itself was like that, but I was asked to change it because it would 100% cause controversy overseas so it's come to be this current spelling.
Q167.
2021.08.09
Has the status of the Shinigami Men's Association improved since Iba-san, its President, became Captain?
Q167.
Isane also became a Captain, so….
Q168.
2021.08.09
In the earliest iterations of BLEACH, the Shinigami wear Western-style outfits and are armed with guns. It seems that in this universe, Rukia was the only one among them to use a scythe, but what was the reason for making Rukia the only one to wield a different weapon?
A168.
The lore was that Rukia was the only one who continued to use an old-fashioned scythe due to a difference in ideology. Also, at the time, the Shinigami characters were all foreigners.
Q169.
2021.08.09
I would like to know the origin of the name "Macy Baljure" (it's my favorite). If possible, please by all means, let us know!
A169.
I don't know the origin, but Macy's name was the one I struggled with the most and I made alterations within the name alone like three times.
Q170.
2021.08.09
Is there any difference between a short release call for a Zanpakutō and a long one like in the case of Kyōraku or Ukitake?
A170.
Basically, the longer ones are often older Zanpakutō.
Q171.
2021.08.09
When drawing manga, do you tend to forget details in the costume blueprints for characters who, for instance, you haven't drawn in a long time?
A171.
I forget things very easily. Even during the series, I forgot the location of Rangiku's mole.
Q172.
2021.08.16
Did you devise the opening and ending of the BLEACH anime together with the anime staff? I was wondering if sensei's ideas were incorporated as well.
A172.
I'm not involved with the OP & EDs. Each one is good in it's own way.
Q173.
2021.08.16
Why did Hisagi fail the entrance exam for the Academy twice?
A173.
Because it's Shūhei.
Q174.
2021.08.16
Regardless of whether they were in a higher or lower position, members of the Visored have been quite casual since their days as Shinigami, using informal language and addressing each other without honorifics. Just because they're all together, I don't think that necessarily means that they were at the Academy at the same time, so what could be the driving force for them to have become this close?
A174.
All of them are diehard individualists, or rather, the type to follow their own rules, so people of that type get along well with each other, and I get the impression that because they're the same type, many people don't care how informal they are with one another. Rather than a 'driving force', it's more like "for some reason, I feel like I talk to this guy a lot."
Q175.
2021.08.16
I love Sado-kun. I would like to know if there is a backstory regarding Sado-kun's tattoo such as when and how he got it inked.
A175.
When his Abuelo died, Sado got it inked in order to keep his spirit strong.
Q176.
2021.08.16
What is sensei's shoe size in cm? Also, if you have any favorite shoes, please let us know!
A176.
My ankles are big, so it's 27 or 27.5. I like shoes but I don't particularly have a favorite brand.
Q177.
2021.08.16
Are you reading what your fans are writing in the comments in the [DESKSIDE] section of your website?
A177.
I'm reading them all.
Q178.
2021.08.23
This isn't really a question, but I hope that the Radio Kon letters segment, which appeared in the early Tankōbon, makes a comeback.
A178.
I didn't want to do that anymore because I had to draw the cutout faces of characters, every volume, just for that segment which was quite exhausting. I planned to do this myself though.
Q179.
2021.08.23
Will sensei's illustrations mainly be done digitally from now on? I'm curious because I love the illustrations that were colored with sensei's Copic markers. Also, which one do you prefer, sensei?
A179.
Right now, I'm having fun with digital. I'm still not very good at using digital, but going forward, I'd like to be able to switch back and forth between both depending on my mood.
Q180.
2021.08.23
I would like to know what your favorite buildings are?
A180.
"The National Congress Palace, Brasília" by Oscar Niemeyer and Louis Kahn's "Salk Institute for Biological Studies". Oscar Niemeyer is the origin of Nimaiya Ōetsu's name.
Q181.
2021.08.23
Why does Tatsuki want to become stronger? Her name seems strong, though there is some backstory which revealed that Tatsuki herself doesn't like it, so I'm just allowing myself to imagine that perhaps her parents work at a dojo or do something related to martial arts. I'm also very interested about Orihime in her middle school days, viewed from Tatsuki's perspective. Ichigo and Orihime's pasts have points of similarity, being bullied because of their hair color and experiencing the death of a family member, so I wonder if Tatsuki noticed that they have these things in common?
A181.
The karate dojo that Ichigo used to attend is attached to Tatsuki's home. Additionally, in a flashback which I had to cut due to page limitations, there was a scene where Tatsuki draws a parallel between Ichigo and Orihime. You're quite the reader, huh?
Q182.
2021.08.23
I want to be able to draw illustrations like Kubo-sensei so I'm practicing, but whether it be male or female characters, please let me know if there are any points you pay particular attention to when drawing people.
A182.
There isn't much difference in how I depict men and women. I get the sense that I draw each character with a feeling that's like "this aspect of this character is good."
Q183.
2021.08.23
I have a question about the feathers around Yumichika's eyes. When he appeared in the story about Ikkaku's past, and also 10 years later, it doesn't appear that he's wearing any accessories, but is that sort of like ‘his thing’ these days?
A183.
All the things Yumichika wears are fashionable items, so it varies depending on the season.
Q184.
2021.08.30
What is your favorite Doraemon movie?
A184.
It's "Little Star Wars." It's because I like the theme song.
Q185.
2021.08.30
I would like to know the details about the relationship between Mask De Masculine and James. Is it correct to infer from Yhwach's line "James, so you have died?" that Masculine is like a false manifestation and James is his true form.
A185.
James is the true form, and Masculine is James's ideal hero.
Q186.
2021.08.30
Regarding the subtitle of BLEACH volume 6 "THE DEATH TRILOGY OVERTURE", if literally translated, it becomes "prologue to the Shinigami trilogy", I think perhaps this means the prologue of the series is about facing the Shinigami, the second chapter is about facing the Arrancar and the final chapter is about facing the Quincy. Is it that you decided on the overall structure of the story from the early stages, resulting in a title like this?
A186.
That is so. Since the Lost Agent arc initially wasn't about Shinigami, it was my plan to mix elements of both preceding and upcoming chapters for a smoother transition.
Q187.
2021.08.30
I know this is a terrible question, but I would like to know Kuchiki Rukia's bust, waist and hip measurements….
A187.
It's a secret. All the people asking about BWH measurements and other boob related questions are women…. Well, it's fine then I guess.
Q188.
2021.08.30
Some time ago, I watched you begin to draw an illustration on a Shikishi board by hand and without a rough sketch too for Jigoku no Misawa-sensei, I was in shock thinking "you must be kidding…." When you draw a picture, are you drawing with a clear image of the whole composition already in a completed state in your head? Also, where do you usually start from when drawing a character? I was all the more astonished because I saw Kubo-sensei's craft in a character that was not sensei's own. ×[5]
A188.
From the time I was an elementary school student, I have been drawing Kitarō starting from his toes, so ever since then, the order in which I draw things has always been chaotic.
Q189.
2021.09.06
Ichigo's attendance score is 13 overall and 6 for male student attendance score, these are also the respective numbers of the squads to which Rukia and Renji belong, that is, two Shinigami with whom he shares a particularly close bond. Was this something you set up intentionally?
A189.
It's just a coincidence. 6 is my lucky number so it makes a frequent appearance within the story.
Q190.
2021.09.06
When I look at illustrations, I often look at the fashion designs of the characters, but I am always impressed by how meticulously Kubo-sensei's illustrations depict the structural lines and details of the clothing. I would like to know if there are any fashion brands and the like which you associate with a certain character's image?
A190.
I was about to say that for every character I've never thought "this character would probably wear this brand", but there was actually one individual alone. Äs Nödt would wear Rick Owens.
Q191.
2021.09.06
Your pen-name in the past was Kubo Noriaki, but why was your name changed to Tite?
A191.
That's because that 'pen-name' is actually my real name and on top of that, it was a misprint.
Q192.
2021.09.06
How old is Ikumi-san from Unagiya Shop?
A193.
She's 33.
Q193.
2021.09.06
In the original story and the novels, it is mentioned that Soul Society has a one million year history, but of the Four Great Noble Houses, if Byakuya is the 28th generation and Yoruichi is 22nd generation, it seems this falls short of one million years, what do you think?
A193.
The history of the Nobles is the history of the Seireitei, not Soul Society.
Q194.
2021.09.06
I remember that Kubo-sensei frequently used an au talby A5508SA cell phone for many years. Is that the same cell phone model that is hanging from Ichigo's waist on the cover of WJ issue 23, 2005, and the same one that Rukia is clutching in her hand on the cover of chapter 298
A194.
That's right. I still have it at home. I love Marc Newson.
Q195.
2021.09.13
Kubo-sensei, do you prefer raw eggs, boiled eggs, or hot spring eggs?
A195.
I like raw eggs. Isn't this dependent on one's eating habits?
Q196.
2021.09.13
"PIPERS" WOVEN JACQUARD MUFFLER was sold on Whiskrs, but does sensei own serial number 1? (*These were sold in a limited number of 99)
A196.
I have it. Personally, I thought it would have been easier to use if it was a little longer.
Q197.
2021.09.13
Ganju who reappeared in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc has, from where I'm standing, gained a butt-chin, but did that just happen over the course of his growth? Or was it the discipline he received from Kūkaku, or perhaps he was influenced by Shiroganehiko who similarly has a butt-chin? I would be grateful if you could tell us.
A197.
Huh? Wait, Ganju wasn't supposed to have a butt-chin!? Well then, let's go with growth!
Q198.
2021.09.13
The name Nīhashi = 15 → 2+1+8+4.
The names Nīha and Ninny = 15 → Nīha: 2+1+8 and Ninny: 2+2.
Is this something you were setting up as a goal? ×[6]
A198.
I happened to see this on Twitter and surprised myself. The person who spotted this is amazing. However, it's just a coincidence.
Q199.
2021.09.13
Hitsugaya always wears something that looks like a brooch, it appears to be a marigold, is this correct?
A199.
You mean the clip on his sash which held his sword in his earlier appearances? That's a sun motif.
Q200.
2021.09.13
I would like to see that school parody with the BLEACH cast (the one that was in JET), will it be released somewhere?!
A200.
I want to see that too, but it would be hard to draw the manga myself, so I'm thinking of sharing character profiles and maybe someone will draw it for me.
Translation Footnotes:
×1. "Rondanini's black dog" is part of an incantation for a Kidō spell. See BLEACH chapter 21.
×2. 帯 = to wear/ to carry/ to bear | 人= people | 帯人 (Tite) = to bear people
×3. The joke is: Inu = dog in Japanese. Uni is sea urchin, in Japan we eat sea urchin as sashimi or sushi and it is orange in color.
×4. Back in 2005, a BLEACH dating simulation game parody video, known as "Love Bleach" was made by staff for a BLEACH event. The gag involved teasing a TBA dating simulator. The video is available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0cA-jySdzYE?si=-5OX0MQX1bZKsqws
×5. Tite Kubo drawing for Jigoku No Misawa: https://youtu.be/xRAfswhrQC4?si=6rgKaPK94EbzcBY1
×6. Based on Japanese numerals, Ni = 2, i = 1, ha = 8 shi = 4.
Could you tell us if there was any music, for instance, which became the basis for the image of each character in BTW?
A1.
I'll write about it in the set list section at some point.
Q2.
2021.01.18
How can I be a mangaka for Shueisha?
A2.
You can make a submission to Jump-mangasho. All Jump editors can speak English.
Q3.
2021.01.18
Could you give us the details around how you came up with the word "Bankai"?
A3.
Before the serialization of BLEACH, I tried to use the word "卍殺伏龍砲" (Bansatsu-Fukuryuhō) in another manga, I repurposed it from there.
Q4.
2021.01.18
Right now, what game are you absolutely hooked on?
A4.
Towards the end of this year, I was playing an absurd amount of Zelda Musou (Hyrule Warriors).
Q5.
2021.01.18
Is there any possibility that unrevealed Zanpakutō or Bankai will be introduced in some form in the future?
A5.
If there is a place where I feel it would be acknowledged by a good deal of readers with a suitable number of pages then I would like to draw them someday.
Q6.
2021.01.18
Are there any comedians that you have been enjoying lately, sensei?
A6.
Tokyo Hoteison and Tontsukatan.
Q7.
2021.01.18
Did Sensei come up with the idea for a fan club himself, or was it proposed by the editorial department?
A7.
This was originally a project that a former editor, who is currently working in the web department, brought forward because he wanted to work with me.
Q8.
2021.01.18
Please tell us your dog's name!
A8.
It's "Uni".
Q9.
2021.01.18
In the anime version of BLEACH, the costume designs of some characters such as Soi Fon, Yoruichi-san and Harribel-sama were different from the original work, what did you think about that?
A9.
Back in those days, there was a rule within Jump that "only works which have finished serialization will be made into late night anime." However, nowadays you can ask them to broadcast it late at night and stay true to the original work. By the way, ALPHAxOMEGA's Harribel figurine is based on the original work.
Q10.
2021.01.18
Regarding Gin, rather than a Kyoto dialect, is that an Osaka dialect with a touch of Kyoto?
A10.
That's correct.
Q11.
2021.01.25
I would like to know what it was that Renji wanted to hear from Urahara-san after turning up in the Human World during the Arrancar Arrival arc, even going so far as to do chores for him!
A11.
"Why did you choose Rukia as the hiding place for the Hōgyoku?" Kisuke told him half truth and half lie, but Renji was satisfied with it.
Q12.
2021.01.25
By some chance, I wonder if Kubo-sensei was actually the originator of Whiskrs STORE?
A12.
I am the originator. This is a brand that aims to put out merchandise in which I am involved in everything from conception to completion.
Q13.
2021.01.25
Tite Kubo-sensei, when you think about a character, do you also think about colors at the same time? Or, how do you decide the colors?
A13.
It's pretty much done at the same time. In such cases, the color scheme is determined at the line drawing stage so there is no need to deliberate over how it should look.
Q14.
2021.01.25
What are your favorite sweets?
A14.
Inamura Shozo and Toshi Yoroizuka. I loved their Mont Blanc and mille-feuille but I can no longer find either of those anymore.
Q15.
2021.01.25
Kubo-sensei, could you tell us from your own perspective how to go about creating characters so that readers can empathize with them and find them compelling?
A15.
What's important is whether or not that character has a unique mindset which sets them apart from other characters, so it's not that I think it's necessary to empathize with a character.
Q16.
2021.01.25
Why is the phrase "nandato" (*"what did you say?") used so frequently in BLEACH?
A16.
At the time, there were many works with distinctive catchphrases for characters, so this was an experiment to create a catchphrase for the work rather than the characters, thereby giving the work itself its very own personality. I then put it to work as dialogue that does not compromise the individuality of each character, even when multiple characters are using it.
Q17.
2021.01.25
In BLEACH, "BAD SHIELD UNITED" is brought up as a Human World 'movie' but does Mille really end up dying? Since the speaker is Mizuiro, it's hard to tell whether it's his usual dark humor towards Keigo or if he's serious, I've been curious about that for quite some time.
A17.
She dies. My first editor from back then (who was also my editor at the time of BSU) also said to me "I'm shocked though…."
Q18.
2021.01.25
In BURN THE WITCH, there were often color illustrations which were colored digitally, but around what time did you start trying digital coloring?
A18.
I started from BTW. As far as the order of things go, the Jump cover for chapter 1 is probably the first one that was done digitally. I was nervous until that issue of Jump came out.
Q19.
2021.02.01
Are there any parts of your characters which make you think "this is hard to draw."
A19.
When it comes to parts, large breasts are all difficult. Also, during the week where Szayelaporro's release state came up I complained the whole time whilst drawing it.
Q20.
2021.02.01
When I was reading "BURN THE WITCH", I very often got the impression that Noel was always positioned on the left and Ninny on the right, but I wonder if there's any significance behind this positional relationship…!?
A20.
In order to generate an impression of the characters with a limited number of pages, I did this as a sort of staging effect in the sense that ‘a character's traits are incorporated in their stance.’ You have a good eye….
Q21.
2021.02.01
I believe each squad was assigned a color, I once tried to identify the location of squad barracks based on those colors. Since there are 4 gates associated with a particular color, I thought of Shōryūmon as Seiryū (east - blue), Shuwaimon as Suzaku (south - red), Hakutōmon as Byakko (west - white), Kokuryōmon as Genbu (north - black).
As I recall, the townscape was circular so I tried to arrange the colors of each squad with the ‘Yellow Emperor’ as the centre and it turned out as follows. I suspect it might be in this circular arrangement: starting from Shōryūmon with 6, 1, 11, 8, then from Shuwaimon with 13, 4, 2, from Hakutōmon with 3, 5, 9, and finally from Kokuryōmon with 7, 10, 12. ×[1]
Moreover, I'm awfully curious about the actual line up because it is Ichimaru-san from Squad 3 who interrupted the gatekeeper of Hakutōmon, and the three individuals who turned traitor are situated close together. Is there any established blueprint for the placement of squad barracks within Sensei's mind?
A21.
I can't say for sure without seeing an illustration but judging by what I just read, I think this is very insightful.
Q22.
2021.02.01
Are there any manga, anime, dramas, movies, etc. (other than Kubo-sensei's own works) that as a reader or viewer make you think "this work is amazing!" or "I want you to read/watch that!"?
A22.
My favourite program of the past few years has been Netflix's "The Final Table." It's a cooking competition show, but I think it's the pinnacle of Shōnen manga style cooking battles.
Q23.
2021.02.01
What is your favorite Hiroshima specialty?
A23.
Cream cheese momiji* and plain momiji with chunky sweet red bean paste. (*Momiji manjū are maple leaf shaped sweets.)
Q24.
2021.02.01
I would like to know what kind of work tools you use!
A24.
I don't really have many special tools because I'm not that particular about them … if it's okay, I'll post a photo soon.
Q25.
2021.02.01
I've read in some articles before that the series consists of arcs mainly focused on members of Ichigo's entourage like with Rukia's rescue arc, the Arrancar arc, the Fullbring arc and the Quincy arc. Was this structure something decided upon by Kubo-sensei from the very beginning of the series??
A25.
That's right. I was drawing while wondering if I could continue the series until I reached Uryū.
Q26.
2021.02.01
Izuru-kun's Zanpakutō is Wabisuke and Wabisuke is the name of a type of camellia. Does the theory that the reason why there are multiple scenes within the story where he decapitates his opponent, have its origins in the fact that the camellia is likened to a head and is described as falling?
A26.
That's correct. I thought everyone would take notice about the Wabisuke camellia but at the time it wasn't really picked up on that much.
Q27.
2021.02.01
What is your favourite Pokémon?
A27.
I've never played Pokémon so I haven't the slightest clue.
Q28.
2021.02.08
Does sensei decide the contents, continuity elements and general flow of novelized works like "BLEACH WE DO knot ALWAYS LOVE YOU" and "BLEACH Can't Fear Your Own World"?
A28.
I was the one who passed on the contents and details affecting continuity, I left its portrayal up to the two authors. Whenever they happened upon a part they didn't quit understand along the way, they would also come to consult with me.
Q29.
2021.02.08
When is the collaboration between sensei and THE BACK HORN?!
A29.
I'd like to do that with the Thousand-Year Blood War arc.
Q30.
2021.02.08
Please give us details about the iPad you use at work!
A30.
It's a regular iPad with a larger screen.
Q31.
2021.02.08
Is Kubo-sensei continuing to play "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" without getting bored of it?
A31.
I stopped playing because the UI is too complicated. I'll pick it up again when the UI has improved.
Q32.
2021.02.08
I heard that Kubo-sensei was in charge of the design aspect for the anime original characters Amagai Shūsuke and Kanō Ashido, but was sensei the one who actually designed the anime original characters themselves?
A32.
All characters in the anime originals that are not expressly stated as being designed by me are the product of Kudō-san's taste. I may have done a final design check on the Amagai arc at least, but I didn't touch anything surrounding the Bount arc.
Q33.
2021.02.15
Sensei, do you prefer a girl who shows emotions clearly sort of like Ninny-chan or a girl who is cool-headed and doesn't show much emotion on the surface like Noel-chan?
A33.
I choose my favorite female characters based solely on whether they have big breasts or not, so if it's between these two, it's Noel.
Q34.
2021.02.15
Are there any plans to re-release the color illustration collection “JET”?
A34.
Re-release the art book, I wonder about that… I will try to ask my editor.
Q35.
2021.02.15
Do you play “Dragon Quest Builders”?
A35.
I played a lot of both 1 and 2. I'd like to see a remake of 1 with the technology of 2.
Q36.
2021.02.15
Have you ever felt that the sense of distance and relationships between the characters are different between the anime and the original work?
A36.
Up to around the Soul Society arc of the BLEACH anime, the whole time whilst watching it I kept thinking to myself "if they change things so much, it won't match up with the endgame of the story, but it's out of my hands." I couldn't really understand the characters so I started checking the script around the Arrancar arc.
Q37.
2021.02.15
Does sensei have a favorite designer chair?
A37.
There are many that I like. As for the ones I actually use and like, that includes the Jacobsen Series 7 chair, Eames Sofa by Eames, Magistretti's Maralunga and Maxalto by Citterio.
Q38.
2021.02.22
Chapter 162 of BLEACH (Ichigo's first demonstration of Bankai) is drawn in full color, please give us the inside story around its production during that time (such as how you managed to draw with full color for a weekly series.)
A38.
I finished the draft in 6 days and I set aside approximately 2 consecutive weeks worth of time before drawing it.
Q39.
2021.02.22
Sensei, who did you choose as your favorite character on KlubOutside??
A39.
I haven't made a choice yet. When I think about it seriously, I'm honestly having a tough time choosing.
Q40.
2021.02.22
Which dialect exactly is Shinji's Kansai-ben supposed to be?
A40.
Hirako and Hiyori are both written with a rough sounding Kansai dialect, but I have been told by someone from Kawachi that "Hiyori speaks with an authentic Kawachi dialect."
Q41.
2021.02.22
Are there any plans to make BLEACH a paperback edition?
A41.
I wonder? I haven't heard anything so I guess not.
※There are no plans at the moment. However, there is a possibility that we will consider it in the future depending on demand. <Editor>
Q42.
2021.02.22
Sensei, I heard that you play Brave Souls, but who is your absolute favorite character to use? Additionally, do you have a favorite character with a Brave Souls original costume?
A42.
The one I use the most is Masaki who is the strongest auto. If you're bad at action like me, you can rely on Masaki. I pull almost all original costumes if they are big breasted, in swimsuits.
Q43.
2021.03.01
What is your favorite flavor of ramen?
A43.
It's chicken broth.
Q44.
2021.03.01
What is the diet of a manga artist like? I sincerely wish you good health sensei!
A44.
It's pretty average. In the past year, the variety of delivery options has increased and has become extremely satisfying.
Q45.
2021.03.01
I'd like to see the design proposal for volume 31 with Szayelaporro on the cover sometime, the one which Kubo-sensei previously mentioned on Twitter...!
A45.
Hasn't this been published anywhere? I'll try and see if I have it at hand.
Q46.
2021.03.01
How are the spellings of characters' names decided?
A46.
On the whole, I try to blend in spellings from as many different regions as possible, so for some characters, I was aiming for that “demarcation where it may just be legible" before making my decision.
Q47.
2021.03.01
Is Gantenbainne still alive after receiving aid from Captain Unohana in the Arrancar arc?
A47.
He's alive. The "god" he was talking about is Baraggan, so he is gathering Arrancar who still worship Baraggan and building a small nation.
Q48.
2021.03.01
By what age is one able to work towards becoming a manga artist? Past 20, is it indeed too late to start putting yourself forward? I would like to know what Kubo-sensei thinks about the appropriate age for manga artists!!
A48.
I think it doesn't matter how old you are. You don't need anyone's permission to draw manga, so I think it's best to just draw if you want to draw, and stop if you think it doesn't suit you.
Q49.
2021.03.01
Will Whiskrs STORE carry BLEACH goods? I would like BLEACH to come out with merchandise too like those being sold in Whiskrs STORE. I think I'd want to see merchandise which are actually worn by characters or goods that look like they could be sold in Soul Society! Also, it would be helpful if you could add more payment methods…
A49.
I'm also planning to make BLEACH goods, but I've created an inquiry form on Whiskrs, so if you can write "item request" in the header over there and send it to us, I'll consider that too! Also, if you would like to pay using a specific payment method, please contact us.
Q50.
2021.03.08
My question is, are Nemu-chan's hair and clothing Mayuri-sama's hobby? Or does Nemu-chan dress up according to what she likes?
A50.
It's Mayuri's hobby, or rather, Mayuri is the one altering it to match with his own ensemble. Whether or not it suits her is a separate matter.
Q51.
2021.03.08
Is there any character in BLEACH that you think has become popular, contrary to your expectations?
A51.
I thought Hisagi would never really get popular, so I'm glad that he became fairly popular.
Q52.
2021.03.08
Has there been any change in your favorite characters within your own work between now and the past?
A52.
My favorite characters experience change with every scene I draw, so they're constantly changing.
Q53.
2021.03.08
What is the origin of Rickenbacker's name?
A53.
This is the name of the founder of a guitar company. All Broombuggies are named after people who have passed away.
Q54.
2021.03.08
Do you have a close friendship with Jujutsu Kaisen's Akutami-sensei?
A54.
I had a conversation with him the other day. Right now, I'm using the shampoo Akutami-kun gave me at the time.
Q55.
2021.03.15
With the anime versions of BLEACH and BTW, sensei's characters were given a voice, but to sensei's mind, are there any characters whose voices were a particularly perfect fit?
A55.
Yoruichi is the first one who surprised me, I thought "I didn't expect this character to have this kind of voice!"
Q56.
2021.03.15
Hitsugaya who had been turned into a zombie was changed into Quincy clothes, is this Gigi's hobby?
A56.
It's Gigi's hobby.
Q57.
2021.03.15
The Quincy have made an appearance in Brave Souls, but how were the voice actors selected?
A57.
I chose them after listening to recorded voice auditions.
Q58.
2021.03.15
What kind of clothes are your favorite clothes these days?
A58.
Over-sized, whitish sweats. They're comfortable so I want to wear them until the very last moment they're considered trendy.
Q59.
2021.03.15
Does Kubo-sensei play Brave Souls? If so, who is your favorite character?
A59.
I scarcely get a chance to use them, but the visuals for heart attribute swimsuit Nelliel and technique attribute swimsuit Orihime are extremely good.
Q60.
2021.03.22
Are there any manga or movies that influenced you, sensei?
A60.
"SNATCH'" and "300" had a huge influence on me at the time they were screened.
Q61
2021.03.22
I heard that you are also involved in the audition process for the voice actors, but I am curious about what it was like in the early days of the BLEACH anime.
A61.
Ichigo was chosen after I listened to the several audition tapes which had been recorded for him. As for the Human World gang + Rukia and Renji, I listened to the tapes that the team on the other side had selected and got them to change only those who were different from their image. It's about the same level of involvement as in the live-action movie. Any subsequent casting does not involve me.
Q62.
2021.03.22
There are two types of haori for the Captains of the Gotei, but are both options provided when they take up their new posts?
A62.
At the time of their inauguration, they can choose between sleeved and sleeveless. They can even make modifications during the process, however they may be put off from doing so because it's expensive and this request will not be approved unless you have a very good reason.
Q63.
2021.03.22
When you were still working on your weekly series, were you reading other works in Jump magazine?
A63.
During its serialization, I was pretty much only ever checking for misprints in BLEACH. Between the desire to draw manga and the desire to read manga I only have the capacity to accommodate one, so when I draw I don't feel like reading and when I read I don't feel like drawing.
Q64.
2021.03.22
I have a question regarding the typeface of Rukia's name written on the cover of chapter 266. "Kuchiki" is written in brush strokes, but is there some significance as to why "Rukia" is not written in brush strokes? I'm curious about the covers with names on them since all the names of the other Shinigami are written by brush stroke, whereas part of Rukia's name is the only anomaly.
A64.
It does have a significance, but I might draw it somewhere else so it's a secret for now.
Q65.
2021.03.29
Sensei, is there any aspect in life that makes you think "this is the only thing that is non-negotiable"?
A65.
It has to be "don't let anyone interfere with your work." I'm hardly ever picky about anything else in my actual life.
Q66.
2021.03.29
The more Ichigo has grown, the more he looks like his father Kurosaki Isshin, huh? By the way, will Ichigo inherit Isshin's chest hair? I'm curious.
A66.
I want to believe in the power of Masaki's genes.
Q67.
2021.03.29
Can I safely assume that the description of Squad 1 Vice-Captain Sasakibe Chōjirō Tadaoki's Bankai - Kōkō Gonryō Rikyū - was referring to Tensō Jūrin?
Q67.
That's right.
Q68.
2021.03.29
I was trying to choose a favorite character, but I'm having a difficult time because there are too many charming characters! Please let me have at least three people to root for. Kubo-sensei, can you narrow down your favorite characters to just one in your favorite works?
A68.
Let me narrow it down. Hyoga from Saint Seiya, Nurikabe from GeGeGe no Kitaro and Gorō from Kodoku no Gourmet.
Q69.
2021.03.29
During the time Isshin was Captain, Rangiku was Vice-Captain and Hitsugaya was 3rd seat, but why did Rangiku remain a lieutenant instead of ascending to Captain?
A69.
This is because Hitsugaya is better suited for the position of Captain and also because he had already acquired Bankai. By the way, Hitsugaya had already acquired Bankai by the time he enlisted in the Gotei 13.
Q70.
2021.04.05
Hitsugaya often yells "get to work!" at Rangiku, but what tasks are so demanding that they require the qualities of a Captain class Shinigami?
A70.
Checks and approvals.
Q71.
2021.04.05
Noel-chan had a guy lick some kind of device when checking to see whether or not he had come into contact with a dragon, but does she have to replace it each time it's used? Or does she use the same one the whole time?
A71.
It is returned and magically cleaned with every use.
Q72.
2021.04.05
As explained with 90s level Kidō which appears in BLEACH, the higher the number, the stronger the spell becomes, but is it the same with spells like Blue Spark which are cast in BURN THE WITCH.
A72.
It's different. The Magic numbers from BTW have simple rules and are assigned in accordance with them.
Q73.
2021.04.05
Out of Rangiku, Orihime, Yoruichi-san, Harribel-sama, Unohana-san, Isane, Nelliel and Noel-chan, who has the largest chest?
A73.
I think I'm probably drawing Nelliel with the mental image of her being the most voluptuous.
Q74.
2021.04.05
I would like a tour of sensei's workshop!! Is that allowed!?!?
A74.
I had never considered it. I don't mind doing this if the time and situation allows it, but we'll see.
Q75.
2021.04.12
Please tell us about any changes in the vow Chad made concerning his fists. After he swore to his Abuelo that he would never swing his fists for himself, Chad did not retaliate by raising his fists for his own sake, not even during a fight where he was being beaten.
Then he met Ichigo and they both made this pact: "you won't have to hit anyone on your own account anymore, but in return you have to hit people to help me. I'll fight for you and you'll fight for me. If there's something you want to protect with your life, I'll stake my life to protect it too."
From then on, he fought for Ichigo with his fists and grew stronger to protect his friends. However, in the final chapter there is a scene where Chad has become a boxer and is aiming to become champion. Why did Chad, who up until now had vowed not to swing his fists for himself, end up using his fists in a boxing match in order to become champion in the final chapter? Was there some sort of shift in his feelings that made him think that he's ready to use his fists for himself now, or is it that someone has emerged whom he wishes to protect by becoming a champion boxer?
A75.
Nothing has changed. Chad considers boxing a martial art, not violence.
Q76.
2021.04.12
Sensei, if you were to become Captain and Vice-Captain, which divisions would you prefer to be in for each?
A76.
It seems like a heavy responsibility so I don't want it.
Q77.
2021.04.12
I joined a fan club for the first time in my life. Have you ever been a member of anyone's fan club, sensei?
A77.
It's my first time too. I am currently undergoing the unique experience of joining a fan club for the first time in my life as a member of my own fan club.
Q78.
2021.04.12
I would like to learn about Tite Kubo-sensei's family composition.
A78.
What kind of scammer-like question is this?
Q79.
2021.04.12
I'd like to know sensei's usual breakfast menu.
A79.
Aojiru, Amazake and yogurt. (*Aojiru - a green, vegetable juice made from kale. Amazake - sweet drink made from fermented rice.)
Q80.
2021.04.12
I was curious about the origins of the names of Quincy: Vollständig (Tatarforas, Hasshein, etc.) so I tried to do some research but I couldn't figure it out at all. Could they be words coined by you, sensei?
A80.
It's not so much a coined word, but rather a regular name …. I give them a name that sounds angelic and doesn't seem to have any apparent origin even if you try to look it up.
Q81.
2021.04.19
Do you prefer raw eggs or boiled eggs?
A81.
I prefer raw.
Q82.
2021.04.19
If you were to go out for a drink one-on-one, who would you go with? Personally, I'd like to go with Ikkaku.
A82.
I don't drink so I wouldn't want to go out with anyone. As long as I don't have to drink, anyone with big breasts will be fine.
Q83.
2021.04.19
Who does Kubo-sensei admire?
A83.
It's not that it's a specific person or something, but I quite admire gag manga artists.
Q84.
2021.04.19
Kubo-sensei, what app do you use when drawing illustrations on your iPad?
A84.
It's Clip Studio Paint. I really want to use Procreate (because Tada Yumi-san is using it), but Procreate is complicated.
Q85.
2021.04.19
Kubo-sensei, please tell us what you value when composing your character designs.
A85.
Place great value on first impressions and also don't be bound by it.
Q86.
2021.04.26
Sensei, did you study calligraphy? I love your drawings of course, but I also love your penmanship!!
A86.
This question reminded me that my grandmother was a calligraphy tutor. But I haven't formally studied it.
Q87.
2021.04.26
I absolutely adore the female characters you draw sensei, but do you find it challenging to draw female characters?
A87.
It's the same. People often say that female characters are difficult because they don't understand women's feelings, but it's the same even for men because people struggle to comprehend the feelings of others.
Q88.
2021.04.26
Please tell us about a movie you saw recently that you found interesting, sensei.
A88.
I watched The Equalizer the other day for the first time in a while, but it's still interesting no matter how many times I watch both 1 and 2.
Q89.
2021.04.26
At the end of the "D-TecnoLife" anime OP, Chad, Inoue, Ichigo, Ganju, Hanatarō and Ishida appear in that order, but I wonder if Ganju's bandana is white because they forgot to apply color?
A89.
This is because the character color check isn't coming to me.
Q90.
2021.04.26
In the Thousand Year Blood War arc, it was stated that no citizen of Rukongai beyond district 50 had been observed wearing sandals for over 500 years, yet as a child Rangiku was wearing a somewhat stylish pair of sandals. Did Gin provide her with those?
A90.
After meeting, Gin and Rangiku gradually moved to the safer inner districts of Rukongai. Gin's zōri sandals and Rangiku's setta sandals, which appear in the second half of the flashback, are items which each of them picked up along the way.
Q91.
2021.05.03
Is there any particular reason why Harribel and Stark are not using their first names in typical Arrancar fashion?
A91.
There is no concept of first name, middle name or last name to Arrancar.
Q92.
2021.05.03
Please tell us the reason why Kurotsuchi Mayuri started wearing headgear. Additionally, please tell us about his reason for changing that headgear.
A92.
It's his hobby.
Q93.
2021.05.03
What is sensei's favorite manga?
A93.
When I'm feeling down, I always read "Kodoku no Gourmet."
Q94.
2021.05.03
In Bleach, Zanpakutō which possess fire abilities appear within the story, but who is a character that sensei is reminded of when it comes to fire?
A94.
Wanyūdō (from GeGeGe no Kitaro.)
Q95.
2021.05.03
Do you still read Jump?
A95.
I read it and express my thoughts chaotically to those close to me. My editor also sometimes wants to hear my thoughts.
Q96.
2021.05.03
Is it a coincidence that BTW's release date falls on a full moon in Aries according to western astrology?
A96.
Really!? That is a coincidence.
Q97.
2021.05.10
Yadōmaru Lisa sometimes appears to speak with a Kansai-like dialect and sometimes she doesn't, what dialect exactly does Lisa speak with?
A97.
It's Gifu dialect which is closer to dialects from Aichi.
Q98.
2021.05.10
About the unfilled drafts and such that are in the Gallery on KlubOutside, how did those come to be preserved?
A98.
Upon completion of the inking stage, I would make a copy and write instructions on it, and when I was done with the draft I would normally throw it away. However, my parents back home told me "send it to us instead of throwing it out", so I sent it to them.
Q99.
2021.05.10
The characters that appear in Kubo-sensei's works are all highly unique in appearance and personality, and I'm always deeply moved by them. Please let us know if there is anything you keep in mind at all times when designing characters!
A99.
I make an effort to try and avoid similar faces or personalities.
Q100.
2021.05.10
Is there any possibility that the BLEACH anime will be released to the world in the form of a full remake? I think that with current technology, it would be possible to depict the world-building more beautifully.
A100.
There are no such plans but I'd like to make that happen.
Translation footnotes:
×1. In Japan, Seiryū, Suzaku, Byakko and Genbu are four mythological creatures known as 'The Four Gods' originally from Chinese mythology. They represent a particular color and cardinal direction. There is also one more divine beast, a yellow dragon (aka the Yellow Emperor) - god to the center.
Hi everyone, I have opened a tumblr account to post a compilation of my translation work for KlubOutside Q&A. I plan to upload every single Q&A here + updates for upcoming Q&A. If you are interested in Kubo’s answers, feel free to follow as I’ll be posting my translations here soon.
