Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc episode 2 recap: "Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka's Pain" uncovers Giyu's past

If you missed the most recent episode of Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc, then we're sad to say that you've missed out on an important lore drop regarding Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira, and how he became the person that he is today.

In the very first episode of the season, we see that Giyu is struggling to relate with his fellow Hashira members to the point of sitting out of the Hashira Training camp. We were left puzzled by why he felt like he had to exclude himself from such activities, especially because other young demon slayer soldiers could definitely learn a thing or two from him. However, our answers were finally answered in episode two!

Wonder what you missed out on? Or maybe you just need a quick refresher before the next episode releases? Don't worry, we've got your back! Spoilers ahead for Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc episode 2.

"Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka's Pain" episode summary

We open the episode revisiting Lady Tamayo's house and learning that Kagaya Ubuyashiki has invited her to his house to talk with Shinobu Kocho, the Insect Hashira, about botanical ways that they eradicate demonic effects in a human.

Initially, this proposal is off-putting to Lady Tamayo, as she is putting her life on the line by visiting the Hashira's headquarters as a demon. Nevertheless, if she wants to get any closer to finding out an answer, she must rid herself of her anxieties and see what comes out of this new experience.

The episode then proceeds to Tanjiro Kamado reading a letter from Kagaya Ubuyashiki. Ubuyashiki has entrusted Tanjiro with talking to Giyu to figure out his troubles. After all, Tanjiro has a heart of gold and if there's anyone who can get Giyu to lower his walls, it's Tanjiro.

And so, Tanjiro sets off.

At Giyu's house, Tanjiro realizes that his task will be easier said than done since Giyu is not trying to let Tanjiro peak into his heart. But where we see the impossible, Tanjiro sees endless possibilities of how he can be persistent enough for Giyu to give in.

After following Giyu everywhere, the Water Hashira finally gives in and informs Tanjiro of why he doesn't consider himself worthy enough to be called a Hashira.

In the latter half of the episode, we are transported to Giyu's past where he and his late friend, Sabito, are taking part in the demon slayer exams. Giyuu reflects on how difficult the process was for him because, rather than take courage and kill demons, Giyu cowered in fear. On the other hand, Sabito was far more composed and knew how to be brave. This dynamic could be seen in the important moment where Sabito saved Giyu's life.

Just when things looked on the bright side, another demon slayer soldier was in desparate need of some help. Sabito went off to help, but, unfortunately, didn't make it this time.

In the present, we see Giyu riddled with survivor's guilt. Tanjiro feels incredibly awful for prying so much but reminds the Water Hashira that Sabito entrusted Giyu to pass on the important skills he's learned to others rather than die with the knowledge that can save others' lives. Upon hearing Tanjiro's words, Giyu remembers one last flashback of Sabito imploring Giyu to get back up when he's down and to never just lie down and die.

Just as Giyu is about to thank Tanjiro for getting him out of his rut, Tanjiro recommends the two have a soba-eating contest. Giyu, while confused, agrees.

As we approach the end of the episode, we switch to Shinobu's perspective.

The Insect Hashira looks visibly upset despite doing her best to hold back her anger. Just as she looks like she's about to snap, she is joined by her student, Kanao, whose presence softens her heart to the point where Shinobu opens up about the demon who killed her elder sister, Kanae.

In the next episode, Shinobu will continue the story, so be sure to tune in to Demon Slayer: Hashira Training Arc on Sunday, May 26, at 10:45 a.m. PT (or 1:45 p.m. ET) on Crunchyroll for yet another important lore drop. See you there!