Tensa Zangetsu in Japanese Kanji: Meaning & Tattoo Guide

Here is the correct Kanji writing for Tensa Zangetsu, the sleek and powerful Bankai (Final Release) form of Ichigo Kurosaki’s sword in BLEACH. Unlike the massive blade of his Shikai, this form represents compressed power and high speed.

The Meaning of the Name (天鎖斬月)

The name consists of four characters that describe the nature of this evolution: a blade that connects the heavens with a chain.

• 1. 天 (Ten) – Heaven / Sky
  Literally “Heaven” or “Sky.” It represents something superior, divine, or located high above.
• 2. 鎖 (Sa) – Chain
  Literally “Chain.” This is a crucial visual element of the Bankai, as the hilt of the sword has a broken black chain connected to it. It symbolizes the binding of power.
• 3. 斬 (Zan) – Slay
  “To slay” or “To cut.” Retained from the original name, representing the sword’s function.
• 4. 月 (Getsu) – Moon
  “The Moon.” The core motif of Ichigo’s power.

Combined Meaning: “Heaven Chain Slaying Moon”
The name paints a picture of a moon-slaying blade bound by a chain from the heavens. It is one of the most poetic names in the series.

Tattoo Design Tips

Tensa Zangetsu is a top-tier choice for a long, vertical tattoo design.

• Length & Placement: Since it has 4 characters (天鎖斬月), it creates a long, elegant line. It is perfect for the spine (back) or running down the entire forearm.
• Style: While the Shikai (Zangetsu) is rugged, the Bankai is precise. A sharper, slightly thinner Brush style works well to mimic the speed and compressed reiatsu of the Bankai form.

Related Concepts in BLEACH

Don’t forget to check the other forms of this legendary sword:

• Wielder: Ichigo Kurosaki (黒崎 一護)
• Original Form (Shikai): Zangetsu (斬月)
• Back to Collection: BLEACH Kanji List