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Yoruichi Shihōin

Yoruichi Shihōin (Japanese: 四楓院 夜一, Shihōin Yoruichi) is a former captain of the 2nd Division within the Gotei 13 and the former leader of the stealth forces known as the Onmitsukidō. During her time in the Gotei 13, her lieutenant was Marenoshin Ōmaeda. After stepping down from both positions, Yoruichi chose to work alongside Kisuke Urahara and Tessai Tsukabishi at the Urahara Shop in the Human World.

“Don’t use such strong words. It’ll only make you look weak.”
— Sōsuke Aizen

Appearance

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Yoruichi Shihōin appearance.

Yoruichi Shihōin is a slender, athletic woman of average height with a well-toned physique. She has dark skin, golden-colored eyes, and long black hair, which is usually tied in a ponytail, with shorter bangs framing her face. Her typical attire consists of a black, backless sleeveless undershirt, layered with an orange top that features white straps on the shoulders. She wraps a large beige sash around her waist and wears black stretch pants paired with lightweight brown shoes designed for stealth and agility, aiding her use of Shunpo. In the past, she also wore a beige neck warmer to conceal her identity, though this seems to have been abandoned. Occasionally, she sports beige wrist and leg warmers, secured with bands. During the Quincy Blood War, her outfit changes to a short dress paired with arm warmers and thigh-length boots.

Uniquely among the Shinigami, Yoruichi has the ability to transform into a small black cat for extended periods. In this form, she takes on a distinctive male voice and retains her golden eyes.

One hundred ten years prior, as a captain, Yoruichi wore the traditional sleeveless and backless Onmitsukidō uniform, complete with long black wrist guards, similar to those worn by Suì-Fēng. She also donned a black ribbon around her neck and a long-sleeved captain’s haori. At that time, her hair was shorter, styled similarly to Suì-Fēng’s current look, though without braids. Before this, she wore the white correction corps uniform of the Onmitsukidō.

    Personality

    Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

    Yoruichi in her role as Princess of the Shihōin Clan.

    Yoruichi Shihōin is known for her intelligence and wit, possessing a deep understanding of Soul Society’s inner workings due to her past roles as leader of the Onmitsukidō and captain of the Second Division. Despite her noble origins, Yoruichi displays a demeanor that sets her apart from other aristocrats, much like Kaien Shiba. For example, she instructed her subordinate, Suì-Fēng, to address her informally without honorifics, although she eventually accepted being called “Yoruichi-sama.” Her playful nature often leads her to transform into her human form unexpectedly, sometimes in front of Ichigo Kurosaki, to tease him by catching him off guard with her nudity.

    In both her human and animal forms, Yoruichi speaks using the pronoun “washi,” a term typically used by older men, rather than more feminine pronouns like “watashi.” This adds to her unique and unconventional personality. While the origin of her ability to transform into a cat is unclear, she appears to enjoy spending extended periods in this form. Her comfort in her feline state is evident when she reverts to her Shinigami form in front of Ichigo, forgetting to wear clothes due to her prolonged time as a cat. She also delights in shocking others by revealing her true form, particularly because her cat voice sounds male. Yoruichi has a deep attachment to her cat form and can become angry if it is harmed or insulted, as seen when her tail was injured.

    Though generally calm and composed in serious situations, Yoruichi is known for her laid-back, mischievous side. She enjoys teasing younger individuals, including Ichigo Kurosaki, as well as a younger Byakuya Kuchiki, and Suì-Fēng before her promotion to captain. She also shares a playful relationship with Kisuke Urahara, her childhood friend and former subordinate. Her fondness for milk, a trait befitting her cat form, is also noted.

    Background

    Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

    Yoruichi during her younger days.

    Yoruichi Shihōin was born into the prestigious Shihōin Clan, one of the four noble families of Soul Society, and held the title of princess of the Tenshiheisōban (House of Godly Gears). She spent her early years at the Shihōin Mansion in the Seireitei, where she grew up alongside her childhood friends, Kisuke Urahara and Tessai Tsukabishi. During their youth, they often played together under Sōkyoku Hill, in a secret training space constructed by Urahara.

    Yoruichi eventually became the Corps Commander of the Executive Militia within the Onmitsukidō, as well as the 22nd generational Head of the Shihōin Clan. She was the first woman to hold the position. As is customary for the head of her family, Yoruichi also rose to the rank of Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō and captain of the 2nd Division of the Gotei 13, further integrating the Onmitsukidō with the Gotei 13.

    During her time as Commander, Yoruichi personally trained Suì-Fēng, who served as her bodyguard. Recognizing Suì-Fēng’s talents, Yoruichi became her mentor and taught her many of the techniques she had developed, particularly those involving Shunpo, a skill she also taught to Byakuya Kuchiki.

    Approximately 110 years ago, Yoruichi recommended her third seat, Kisuke Urahara, for the position of captain of the 12th Division after the former captain, Kirio Hikifune, was promoted. Suì-Fēng expressed doubts about Urahara’s capabilities, believing that Yoruichi had overestimated him. Despite these concerns, Yoruichi supported Urahara’s promotion and dismissed Suì-Fēng’s criticisms, playfully suggesting that her attention to Urahara might be personal.

    On the day of Urahara’s captain proficiency exam, Suì-Fēng followed Urahara around Soul Society, collecting evidence of what she perceived as his incompetence. Yoruichi, however, found Suì-Fēng’s detailed notes amusing, interpreting them as a love letter rather than a serious report. Despite Suì-Fēng’s protests, Yoruichi continued to support Urahara’s advancement.

    After Urahara became captain, Yoruichi was informed that he had entered the Detention Unit grounds, which was typically off-limits. Despite not recalling giving him permission, Yoruichi allowed him to continue, dismissing concerns from Suì-Fēng about the breach.

    Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

    Yoruichi as Captain of the 2nd Division and Commander of the Onmitsukidō.

    Yoruichi also had a playful relationship with a young Byakuya Kuchiki, frequently visiting the Kuchiki Manor and engaging him in games of tag. She once stole his hair ribbon, teasing him about the future of the Kuchiki Clan, prompting a chase in which Byakuya vowed to surpass her in Shunpo, though she easily evaded him.

    Nine years after Urahara’s promotion, Yoruichi attended an emergency captains’ meeting regarding the disappearance of 9th Division members, including Captain Kensei Muguruma. Urahara, frantic about his lieutenant Hiyori Sarugaki’s involvement, requested to join the investigation but was refused by Captain-Commander Yamamoto. Yoruichi reprimanded Urahara for losing his composure, reminding him that his actions insulted Hiyori’s capabilities.

    When Urahara and Tessai were later arrested by Central 46 on false charges orchestrated by Sōsuke Aizen, Yoruichi intervened. Disguised and masked, she rescued both of them and brought them to a secret underground location. She expressed frustration at being excluded from their plan but helped them, along with the eight Hollowfied Shinigami, to escape Soul Society using a prototype Gigai developed by Urahara

    After leaving Soul Society, Yoruichi abandoned her noble titles and roles. Suì-Fēng later succeeded her as captain of the 2nd Division and Commander of the Onmitsukidō.

    Plot

    Agent of the Shinigami Arc

    Yoruichi Shihōin first arrives in Karakura Town in her feline form, where Tessai Tsukabishi reveals to Jinta Hanakari that she is Kisuke Urahara’s close friend. Later, Yoruichi is seen sitting outside Urahara’s shop, gazing at the sky. When Urahara approaches her and asks what she is looking at, Yoruichi responds with her male voice, remarking that he is well aware that “they” have already arrived.

    After Rukia Kuchiki is taken back to Soul Society, Ichigo Kurosaki begins his training with Urahara to regain his Shinigami powers. Concurrently, Yoruichi offers to train Orihime Inoue and Yasutora Sado, warning them that the lessons will be strict and challenging. Both Orihime and Sado readily accept her offer. The group then seeks out Uryū Ishida, who is surprised by their arrival. When Orihime explains the necessity of their training, Uryū inquires about their trainer, unaware that Yoruichi, in her cat form, has been standing beside him the entire time. Upon realizing that the talking cat is their trainer, Uryū is taken aback. Despite his shock, Uryū declines to join them, as he prefers to train alone and seeks revenge against the Shinigami, rather than saving Rukia. Yoruichi, understanding his resolve, moves forward with the training of Orihime and Sado.

    Yoruichi begins training Orihime and Sado in an abandoned warehouse, but they struggle to summon their powers. Frustrated, Yoruichi emphasizes that without the ability to freely call upon their powers, they would not survive in Soul Society. She urges them to remember the moments when their powers first manifested, reasoning that their abilities emerged when they were driven to protect others. Orihime reflects on her desire to protect Ichigo, which triggers the reappearance of her powers in the form of the “Shun Shun Rikka.” Yoruichi advises her to focus on controlling these newly awakened powers. Turning to Sado, Yoruichi prompts him to consider his own reasons for wanting to go to Soul Society. Shortly afterward, Sado gains access to his powers, using them to punch a large hole in the wall, much to Yoruichi’s astonishment. With both Orihime and Sado successfully mastering their abilities, they prepare to journey to Soul Society. Yoruichi, however, quickly reminds them that they must leave the area before their destructive training attracts unwanted attention.

    When the group is ready to travel to Soul Society using Urahara’s Senkaimon, Yoruichi volunteers to serve as their guide. After Urahara explains the dangers of the passage, Yoruichi warns that only those with clear resolve can make it through. Ichigo asserts that everyone is determined, and Yoruichi commends his firm resolve. From this point onward, Yoruichi leads the group through the perilous Dangai, the dimensional space between the Human World and Soul Society.

    Soul Society Arc

    Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

    Yoruichi instructing Suì-Fēng.

    Upon arriving in Soul Society, Yoruichi promptly informs the group about the seriousness of their situation and explains their location and the layout of Soul Society. Ichigo Kurosaki immediately charges toward the Seireitei but is blocked by a massive wall. Yoruichi identifies the wall’s guardian as Jidanbō, the Seireimon Gatekeeper of the west gate and an elite among Soul Society’s defenders. Although Yoruichi advises caution and suggests they formulate a plan, Ichigo, Chad, and Orihime proceed to face Jidanbō head-on, disregarding her advice. To her surprise, Ichigo manages to defeat Jidanbō, who, following the rules, opens the gate for them. However, Gin Ichimaru, a captain of the Gotei 13, appears unexpectedly.

    When Gin severs Jidanbō’s left arm, Yoruichi immediately realizes that Ichigo and his friends are no match for a captain. She understands the gravity of the situation, knowing that facing a captain directly would result in their defeat. Before Ichigo can react, Gin uses his Shikai to push Ichigo and Jidanbō out of the gate, closing their path.

    After confirming that Ichigo is unharmed, Yoruichi reassures him that he should not blame himself for the closed gate, as even if they had passed through, they would have faced Gin with the same outcome. As the residents of Rukongai begin to emerge from hiding, Yoruichi explains that because Ichigo and his friends were not guided into Soul Society by a Shinigami, they are considered intruders. The citizens were hiding in fear of being caught in the conflict.

    While resting in Rukongai, Yoruichi devises a plan to enter the Seireitei without using the gate. She asks the local elder for the whereabouts of Kūkaku Shiba, a drifter who is difficult to locate. Yoruichi leads the group to an open area, explaining that Kūkaku prefers solitude. They eventually find Kūkaku’s house and, after being stopped briefly by her guards, Yoruichi is recognized and allowed entry. Inside, Kūkaku warmly greets Yoruichi, who asks for her help in getting the group into the Seireitei. Kūkaku agrees to assist them by launching them into the Seireitei using her Fireworks cannon.

    After training with Kūkaku to use the cannon, the group prepares for their launch. Ichigo questions whether Yoruichi, in her cat form, will be able to create the necessary barrier to pass through the Seireitei’s defenses. Yoruichi, demonstrating her mastery, effortlessly creates the barrier. Once inside the cannon, she warns the group not to wander off and to avoid captain-level enemies, as their mission is to rescue Rukia Kuchiki, not to engage in unnecessary battles.

    The team successfully breaches the Seireitei’s barrier, but the cannonball destabilizes, causing the group to be separated. As they are split apart, Yoruichi reassures Ichigo that they will survive and encourages him to focus on protecting himself first. Yoruichi, left alone, skillfully evades capture by a group of Shinigami.

    Later, Yoruichi rescues Ichigo after his intense battle with Kenpachi Zaraki, the 11th Division Captain. She takes him to a secret underground area for recovery. When Ichigo wakes up, he hastily tries to rejoin his friends, but Yoruichi urges him to rest, explaining that his Hollow mask saved him from a fatal wound. Ichigo is shocked to see the mask still with him, as he had discarded it earlier. Yoruichi offers to keep the mask for him, but Ichigo insists on holding onto it, leading to a brief argument.

    At this point, Yoruichi reveals her true form to Ichigo, transforming into a woman. Amused by Ichigo’s shock, she teases him about his innocence before explaining how she managed to carry him to safety. Before she can reveal more about her identity, they sense Byakuya Kuchiki’s Reiatsu, prompting Ichigo to rush off to save Ganju Shiba and Hanatarō Yamada. Yoruichi follows him, trying to stop him but ultimately letting him go.

    Yoruichi intervenes just in time to stop Byakuya from releasing his Shikai during his fight with Ichigo. Recognizing her, Byakuya notes that Yoruichi is the former Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō and former Corps Commander of the Correction Corps, expressing surprise at her return after a century-long absence. Yoruichi immobilizes Ichigo with a tranquilizer and engages Byakuya in a test of speed using Shunpo, staying ahead despite carrying Ichigo. She confidently taunts Byakuya, telling him that in three days, she will train Ichigo to be stronger than him, putting their fight on hold for the time being.

    After returning to the underground area, Yoruichi begins training Ichigo to achieve Bankai. She explains that Bankai is the second release level of a Zanpakutō and is essential for captains. Normally, mastering Bankai takes years of training, but Yoruichi proposes a dangerous method that will allow Ichigo to achieve Bankai in just three days. She brings out the Tenshintai, a rare artifact that forces the materialization of a Zanpakutō spirit. Ichigo stabs the artifact with his Zanpakutō, materializing Zangetsu, and begins his battle for Bankai under Yoruichi’s watchful eye.

    As Ichigo progresses rapidly, Yoruichi grows increasingly impressed with his potential. When Renji Abarai informs them that Rukia’s execution has been moved up, Yoruichi becomes concerned about the limited time for Ichigo’s Bankai training. However, Ichigo remains determined, and Yoruichi lends him the Tentōken, a flying cape that will aid in his mission.

    Following the destruction of the Sōkyoku, Yoruichi encounters her former protégé, Suì-Fēng, on Sōkyoku Hill. The two engage in a fierce hand-to-hand battle, with Suì-Fēng expressing her resentment toward Yoruichi for abandoning her. The fight escalates as Suì-Fēng reveals her new technique, Shunkō, but Yoruichi demonstrates that she has already mastered it at a higher level. Despite the intense combat, Yoruichi ultimately spares Suì-Fēng, leaving her emotionally devastated. Suì-Fēng breaks down, questioning why Yoruichi did not take her along when she left.

    Later, Yoruichi and Suì-Fēng confront Sōsuke Aizen at Sōkyoku Hill, but their efforts to stop him are thwarted when Gillians arrive to assist Aizen’s escape. Yoruichi returns to the Human World with the others, realizing that the battle is far from over.

    On their journey back to the Human World, Yoruichi and the group are once again chased by the Kōtotsu in the Dangai. After returning, Yoruichi and Urahara discuss the coming conflict, acknowledging that they will soon need to rely on Ichigo and his friends for the battles ahead.

    Arrancar Arc

    One night, while Kisuke Urahara stands outside his shop, troubled by the events unfolding in Karakura Town, Yoruichi approaches him. Shortly afterward, the Espada Ulquiorra Cifer and Yammy Llargo arrive in the town and begin terrorizing its inhabitants. In response, Yoruichi and Urahara intervene to save Ichigo Kurosaki, who is being overwhelmed by Yammy. After Urahara blocks one of Yammy’s punches using his Chikasumi no Tate (Blood Mist Shield), Yoruichi swiftly incapacitates Yammy, brutally pounding him into the ground.

    As Yoruichi turns her attention to helping the injured Orihime Inoue, Yammy, enraged, attempts to attack her from behind with a point-blank Cero. However, Urahara counters the attack, neutralizing it with his own spiritual energy. Confused by Urahara’s ability to match his power, Yammy is further bewildered when Urahara releases a powerful blast from his Zanpakutō. Before Yammy can retaliate, Ulquiorra steps in, effortlessly deflecting the blast with his bare hand. Ulquiorra chastises Yammy for his rash actions and explains to him the strength of their opponents before the two Espada retreat to Hueco Mundo.

    Later, back at Urahara’s shop, Yoruichi recovers from injuries to her left arm and leg. Urahara, concerned about her condition, inquires about the battle. Yoruichi admits that she underestimated the Arrancar, having fought Yammy without utilizing her Shunkō technique. She acknowledges that the Arrancar’s skin is far tougher than she had anticipated, even more so than she and Urahara initially expected.

    Yoruichi later appears again at Urahara’s shop to escort Orihime into the training area for further preparations in light of the upcoming battles.

    Fake Karakura Town Arc

    During the battle in the Fake Karakura Town, Yoruichi joins Urahara and Isshin Kurosaki in their attempt to immobilize Sōsuke Aizen. Wearing specially designed armor on her arms and legs, Yoruichi launches a powerful aerial attack on Aizen, smashing into his back with such force that it devastates the surrounding area. The impact causes widespread damage, including the destruction of an entire block. Urahara, sensing danger, shouts for Yoruichi to move away. However, Aizen swiftly recovers and counters before Yoruichi can fully dodge, shattering the armor on her left leg.

    Emerging from the rubble with his new form cracked but intact, Aizen taunts them, questioning if this is the best they can do. He mocks their efforts and warns that they should make their next move quickly, as he intends to crush them all, reducing them to fragments.

    After witnessing Aizen destroy the armor with a single blow, Urahara expresses surprise at how easily his creation was broken. Yoruichi reprimands him for not building the armor properly, but Urahara cautions her to be careful as they prepare for Aizen’s next attack. Yoruichi, confident in her abilities, dismisses the concern, joking that she will be fine as long as Aizen doesn’t target her exposed leg. However, Aizen’s subsequent attack catches her completely off guard.

    Despite escaping the full brunt of Aizen’s assault, Yoruichi loses her right arm-guard in the process. When Urahara asks if she is alright, Yoruichi complains that while the half-finished armor was able to block some of the damage, she could have dodged the attack entirely without it. The two briefly bicker before Urahara launches a Kidō blast at Aizen. Seizing the opportunity, Yoruichi attacks Aizen again using Shunkō, knocking him to the ground. However, Aizen blocks her follow-up strike. Urahara intervenes by immobilizing Aizen with his Benihime, temporarily halting the fight.

    Despite their combined efforts, Yoruichi, Urahara, and Isshin are ultimately overpowered by Aizen. Victorious, Aizen departs for the real Karakura Town located in Soul Society, leaving the trio defeated.

    The Lost Substitute Shinigami

    After Ichigo Kurosaki regains his Shinigami powers, he realizes that Yoruichi’s spiritual energy was one of the many used to help restore his abilities. At this time, Yoruichi is seen in her cat form, casually perched atop Kisuke Urahara’s head. She remains in this form when Ichigo returns from Soul Society after collecting the body of Kūgo Ginjō.

    The Thousand-Year Blood War Arc

    During the second Wandenreich invasion, while Ichigo and his friends prepare to return to the Soul King Palace via a replica of Kūkaku Shiba’s cannon, Yoruichi arrives as Orihime expresses discomfort over her new outfit. Slapping Ichigo for his comment about Orihime’s attire, Yoruichi scolds him, pointing out that Orihime was tricked into wearing it by a maniac. After Urahara welcomes her and asks what happened, Yoruichi reveals several bottles of energy she had collected, which Urahara explains were gathered by Yoruichi as part of Hiyori Sarugaki’s team to help close the distortion between worlds. Yoruichi then accompanies Ichigo, Orihime, Sado, and Ganju as they are launched toward the Soul King Palace. When Orihime remarks on how it feels similar to when they rescued Rukia, Yoruichi comments that she can still transform into a cat.

    Upon arriving at the palace, Yoruichi is cushioned from the fall by Orihime’s Santen Kesshun. She quickly assesses the situation, noticing Ichibē Hyōsube’s severed head lying on the ground. After he revives himself and explains the current state of affairs, Yoruichi and the others rush toward the main palace to confront Yhwach. Yoruichi is visibly shocked when Ichigo’s right side is enveloped in Blut Vene upon making contact with Yhwach’s sword.

    As Yhwach begins explaining his plans, Yoruichi seizes the moment to trap him in a wire cage, instructing Orihime to use her powers to restore the Soul King. However, Orihime is unable to accomplish this. Mimihagi then arrives to stabilize the Soul King, much to Yoruichi’s surprise. After Ichigo prevents Yhwach from destroying both the Soul King and Mimihagi, Yoruichi uses Kidō to create a barrier around the Soul King by placing several seals. She observes that Mimihagi has stabilized the king and declares that they will need to find a replacement.

    During this confrontation, Yoruichi is caught off-guard when Uryū Ishida shoots her with a Heilig Pfeil, causing her barrier to shatter. This allows Yhwach to capture the top half of the Soul King. Yoruichi quickly throws spheres at Yhwach to stop him, but he has Pernida Parnkgjas warp her arm, and she is subsequently thrown from the palace.

    Despite her injury, Yoruichi manages to remove her damaged arm and lands on one of the floating cities below. She intercepts Ichigo and his group as they fall on top of Orihime’s Santen Kesshun. After waking Ichigo with a swift kick and having her arm restored by Orihime, Yoruichi asks if it is time to counterattack. At this moment, Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez arrives via Garganta. Yoruichi then leads the group into the modified Valley of Screams created by Riruka Dokugamine and Yukio Hans Vorarlberna, explaining that they will use this passage to infiltrate the palace through a Garganta.

    As they approach the Royal Realm, Yoruichi tells the group to prepare. When they reach the palace, Yoruichi notices that Yhwach has reshaped the entire structure. She identifies her brother Yūshirō’s Reiatsu and remarks on their resemblance, much to Ichigo and the group’s amusement as they imagine Yūshirō as a cat, which irritates Yoruichi. Running toward the palace’s center, Yoruichi comments on how Ichigo is like Yūshirō for struggling with creating Reishi platforms.

    Later, Yoruichi confronts Askin Nakk Le Vaar after he incapacitates Ichigo, Sado, and Orihime. She questions why Askin has not taken the opportunity to strangle them, which prompts him to attack. Yoruichi activates her Shunkō and hits Askin with one of his own Heilig Pfeil. After engaging in combat, she activates Shunkō: Raijin Senkei and unleashes a powerful blast against Askin.

    As the dust settles, Yoruichi urges Orihime to heal Ichigo and the others before moving forward. She is interrupted when her brother Yūshirō arrives, flying toward her. After dodging his embrace and playfully headbutting him, Yoruichi scolds Yūshirō for not staying with Urahara. Askin then reemerges from the smoke, and Yoruichi tells Ichigo to leave with the others while she handles the situation. As Ichigo departs, Askin mocks Yoruichi’s attack, which causes Yūshirō to attack him in a rage using Shunkō. Yoruichi is impressed by her brother’s growth but is shocked when Askin survives the attack, revealing that he has developed immunity to their Reiatsu.

    Yūshirō, ignoring Yoruichi’s warnings, charges at Askin again but is impaled by Reishi arrows. Yoruichi catches her brother, realizing they had taken too long to understand Askin’s powers. Askin then blasts Yoruichi with a Gift Ball, weakening her significantly. Though Yoruichi struggles to remain standing, Askin continues to toy with her, claiming he was doing his best to kill her. Looking at her fallen brother, Yoruichi realizes that she cannot heal him in her weakened state. As Askin approaches, he taunts her by saying that she is as good as dead.

    Before Askin can finish her off, Kisuke Urahara suddenly appears and injects Yoruichi with an immunity-boosting drug. Though annoyed by the injection, Yoruichi quickly leaps into action, realizing that she has only five minutes of enhanced immunity. Despite her reluctance, Kisuke forces her to activate Shunkō: Raijū Senkei: Shunryū Kokubyō Senki. In this form, Yoruichi becomes more animalistic, slashing Askin and engulfing him in her Reiatsu. However, her frequent mood changes disrupt her focus, causing her to pause mid-battle to lick herself. She soon returns to attack Askin, sending him flying before launching a massive Reiatsu bolt at him.

    As the immunity drug wears off, Yoruichi collapses in Kisuke’s lap. Suddenly, Askin traps them both in his Gift Ball Deluxe with his Quincy: Vollständig activated, putting them in a dire situation.

    Equipment

    Yoruichi possesses several unique items and accessories that aid her in combat, many of which provide her with special abilities such as flight and enhanced hand-to-hand capabilities.

    • Ryūkotsujō (竜骨杖, Dragon Bone Jō): A long, beige, bone-like wand with a small bird-shaped skull at the top and four finger-like bone protrusions at the back. By channeling Reiryoku into the wand, it creates a tentacle harness and a bat-like wing, allowing the user to fly using a one-handed glider. No special skills or prior experience are required to use it.

    • Tentōken (天踏絢, Heaven-Stepping Adornment): A brown mantle with a drawstring closure at the collar and a large brooch featuring the Shihōin Clan crest. The Tentōken allows the wearer to fly and hover mid-air. It is more efficient than the Ryūkotsujō as it does not immobilize one of the user’s hands and also requires no prior skill to operate.

    • Anken (暗剣, Dark Blade; Viz “Dark Sword”): Small, concealed knives that Yoruichi hides in her boots. She can launch them at her enemies with a swift kick, using them as projectiles.

    • Anti-Hierro Armor: This armor consists of metal gloves and boots designed by Kisuke Urahara specifically to counter an Arrancar’s Hierro (iron skin) during hand-to-hand combat. These gloves and boots are highly durable, protecting Yoruichi’s limbs even when subjected to extreme damage during battle.

    • Razor Wire: Yoruichi carries razor-sharp wire that she can deploy instantly to trap opponents. This wire is strong enough to harm even powerful beings like Yhwach if they attempt to move through it.

    • Destructive Spheres: These are small, light-colored spheres connected by a string. When Yoruichi throws them at an opponent, the spheres are designed to deal significant damage. If a second sphere strikes the same area of the opponent’s body, it will cause it to be destroyed.

    Abilities & Powers

    Feline Transformation:
    Yoruichi has the unique ability to transform into a black cat at will. While the origin of this ability remains unknown, she has maintained this form for over 100 years. The transformation does not appear to have a time limit. In her cat form, Yoruichi retains the ability to channel her spiritual energy and move at incredible speeds, though she is physically more limited. The transformation also serves as a disguise, as her voice deepens significantly, often causing others to mistake her for a male.

    Shunpo Master:
    Yoruichi is considered the most proficient master of Hohō in Soul Society, earning the title “Flash Goddess” (瞬神, Shunshin). Her mastery of Shunpo allows her to move so swiftly that she can appear to be in multiple places at once, often overwhelming entire squads in seconds. She can traverse vast distances in the blink of an eye, remaining undetected even by highly skilled opponents like Byakuya Kuchiki. Despite being out of practice, Yoruichi performed approximately 300 Shunpo steps while carrying an unconscious Ichigo Kurosaki before showing signs of fatigue.

    • Utsusemi (空蝉, Cast-Off Cicada Shell):
      A technique Yoruichi created, which allows her to move at such speed that she leaves behind a tangible after-image. She taught this technique to Byakuya Kuchiki.

    Hakuda Master:
    As the former Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō, Yoruichi is one of Soul Society’s most skilled hand-to-hand combatants. She fights almost exclusively using Hakuda, often forgoing her Zanpakutō. Yoruichi has demonstrated her prowess by defeating multiple opponents at once, such as when she took down nearly 50 Onmitsukidō members. She is strong enough to take on Espada-level opponents, such as when she severely injured Yammy Llargo.

    • Taketonbo (竹蜻蛉, Bamboo Dragonfly):
      A Hakuda technique where Yoruichi flips her opponent violently, disorienting them.

    • Raiōken (雷王拳, Thunder King Fist):
      A rapid, high-speed punching technique that Yoruichi uses with both arms. When wearing the Anti-Hierro Armor, she used this technique to severely crack Aizen’s first form and damage a portion of Karakura Town.

    Shunkō Mastery:
    Yoruichi is an expert in Shunkō, an advanced technique that combines Hakuda with Kidō. Her version of Shunkō surrounds her arms and back with lightning-based Kidō, greatly enhancing her combat abilities. This technique allows her to neutralize an opponent’s movements and fire off blasts of Kidō from her body, creating powerful explosions. Yoruichi’s Shunkō has developed to the point where she can generate wings of lightning.

    • Shunkō: Raijin Senkei (瞬閧 雷神戦形, Flash War Cry: Thunder God Battle Form):
      Yoruichi creates a circle of electrical energy resembling Raijin’s drums behind her back, unleashing a massive column of concentrated lightning at her opponent.

    • Shunkō: Raijū Senkei: Shunryū Kokubyō Senki (瞬閧 雷獣戦形 瞬霳黒猫戦姫, Flash War Cry: Thunder Beast Battle Form: Flash God Black Cat Warrior Princess):
      In this form, Yoruichi takes on a hybrid appearance, blending her Shunkō and feline forms. Her arms and legs become encased in electricity, resembling clawed paws, while her hair forms into cat ears and a tail made of energy. Her Reiatsu becomes unstable, changing with her moods 48 times per second, making her attacks unpredictable. In this form, Yoruichi’s mentality becomes more cat-like, and Kisuke Urahara is the only one capable of controlling her.

    Kidō Master:
    Though Yoruichi mainly uses Shunpo and Hakuda in combat, she is highly proficient in Kidō, using mid- to high-level spells without incantation. She can seamlessly combine Kidō with other combat techniques, as demonstrated when she used Kidō to set up advanced protective barriers and stabilize the Soul King’s remains.

    • Hanki (反鬼, Reverse Demon):
      A Shunkō technique that nullifies an opponent’s Kidō by striking it with an equal amount of energy in the opposite direction.

    • Kaidō (回道, Turn Way):
      Yoruichi has demonstrated proficiency in healing Kidō.

    Master Assassin:
    As the former Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō, Yoruichi is a master of stealth and assassination techniques. She has demonstrated exceptional skill in staying hidden, moving undetected, and exploiting vulnerabilities. Even the powerful Aizen was taken by surprise and subdued by her.

    Master Strategist & Tactician:
    Yoruichi is a highly capable leader and strategist. As a former head of her clan and Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukidō, she has shown a deep understanding of battle tactics and adaptability. She anticipates her opponents’ movements and prepares effective strategies, such as when she trained Orihime and Chad in preparation for rescuing Rukia.

    Immense Spiritual Power:
    Yoruichi possesses immense spiritual power, as expected from a former captain of the Gotei 13 and the head of one of the four Noble Houses. Her spiritual energy is powerful enough to act as a shield and remain active for long periods. During Ichigo’s Bankai training, she maintained the Tenshintai for an extended time. Her spiritual energy is significant enough to make powerful enemies like Ulquiorra Cifer wary of facing her in battle. When using Shunkō, her spiritual power greatly increases, and her Reiatsu takes on the form of red lightning.

    Enhanced Strength:
    Despite her slender build, Yoruichi possesses immense physical strength. She has easily overpowered large opponents like Yammy Llargo, breaking through his tough Hierro with unarmed strikes. A single concentrated blow from Yoruichi is powerful enough to destroy an entire city block.

    Enhanced Endurance:
    Yoruichi is incredibly resilient. Despite admitting to being out of practice, she has shown the ability to fight through injuries and exhaustion. She continued fighting even after suffering fractures from Yammy’s Hierro and enduring the effects of Pernida Parnkgjas’s The Compulsory. Additionally, she displayed a strong resistance to Askin Nakk Le Vaar’s The Deathdealing.

    Zanpakutō:
    As a former captain of the Gotei 13, Yoruichi possesses a Zanpakutō and has achieved Bankai, though she rarely uses it. In the past, she carried a kodachi or wakizashi, which was sheathed horizontally across her lower back, similar to Suì-Fēng’s current weapon. The abilities of her Zanpakutō, including its Shikai and Bankai, remain unrevealed.

    Trivia

    Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

    Yoruichi in her cat form.

    • The theme song chosen by Tite Kubo for Yoruichi is “雲路の果て” (Unji no Hate) by the artist Cocco.
    • Yoruichi has been a consistently popular character throughout the series’ popularity polls. In the first character poll, she ranked 15th, followed by 19th in the second poll, 7th in the third, 28th in the fourth, and 20th in the fifth poll. In the tenth popularity poll, she ranked 10th.
    • In the “Best Bout” polls, Yoruichi’s battle with Suì-Fēng ranked 9th in the first poll and 7th in the second poll. Her fight alongside Kisuke Urahara and Isshin Kurosaki against Sōsuke Aizen ranked 38th, while her fight with Byakuya Kuchiki ranked 68th in the same poll.
    • Yoruichi has a tribal tattoo on the outside of her left thigh, which is based on a drawing of her by Tite Kubo in Bleach Volume 26.
    • In the 19th edition of Tedious Everyday Tales Colorful Bleach, Yoruichi was depicted with purple eyes, though subsequent releases reverted to her traditional golden eye color.
    • In the manga, Yoruichi explains Urahara’s background as a former member of the Gotei 13 while in her cat form. However, in the anime adaptation, she transforms back into her human form before revealing this information.
    • In the anime, the three guardians summoned by Aizen to Sōkyoku Hill were omitted. Instead, Kūkaku Shiba arrived with Jidanbō Ikkanzaka and used Raikōhō to attack Aizen before he was subdued by Yoruichi and Suì-Fēng.