Onihei Gaiden
Onihei Gaiden is a series of Japanese historical films and television dramas based on novels by Shōtarō Ikenami, focusing on stories from the "thieves" side, distinct from the main Samurai Detective Onihei series. It tells tales from the perspective of criminals, such as bandit leader "Night Rabbit" Kakuemon or the events surrounding the notorious thief Kumagorō. These side stories provide a look into the lives of common people and outlaws in Edo-period Japan.
Franchise Evolution & Timeline Analysis
The Onihei Gaiden has evolved significantly over a span of -2 years, growing from a singular narrative into a complex cinematic universe. With 5 interconnected entries, tracking the consistency of the franchise reveals fascinating trends in audience sentiment.
The "Series" Benchmark: 4.6/10
The franchise maintains a steady average rating of 4.6. While most series experience "Sequel Fatigue," Onihei Gaiden has managed to keep its narrative quality relatively stable, with Onihei Gaiden - Promise in the Shadows standing out as the peak cinematic achievement.
Continuity vs. Commercial Appeal
Our data indicates that while the "Release Order" is preferred for first-time viewers, the "Chronological Order" provides a much deeper understanding of the world-building within the Onihei Gaiden. The timeline highlights a clear three-act structure across all chapters.
Timeline & Watch Order
We recommend watching the Onihei Gaiden franchise in the following order to fully experience the narrative expansion.
Onihei Gaiden: The Night Rabbit
Bandit leader "Night Rabbit" Kakuemon has always kept the rule to "never kill, never rape, never steal from the poor", passed down to him by the gang's previous...
Onihei Gaiden: Kumagoro’s Face
In pursuit of the notorious thief “Subashiri no Kumagoro,” the Arson and Theft Investigation Squad corners him. Seizo, who has been actively working as their ag...
One Day in January
Every year on the fourth of January, Shobei's soba restaurant serves "Sanada Soba"; soba noodles topped with grated spicy daikon radish. Even regulars refrain f...
Onihei Gaiden - Promise in the Shadows
Ex-bandit Komakichi has a random encounter with an ex-ally, Matsuzou. Seeing each other for the first time in 35 years, the two drink and talk about their past,...
Onihei side story: The Final Chapter - The Fourth Wife
Inomatsu, a carpenter with a reputation as a skilled craftsman, has a wife named Oritsu. Oritsu is deeply in love with Inomatsu and believes that the purpose of...
Common Questions about Onihei Gaiden
How many movies are in the Onihei Gaiden?
There are currently 5 movies in the Onihei Gaiden, starting from Onihei Gaiden - Promise in the Shadows to the latest release, Onihei Gaiden: Kumagoro’s Face.
What is the best order to watch the Onihei Gaiden?
The best way to watch the Onihei Gaiden is usually in release order: starting with Onihei Gaiden - Promise in the Shadows and ending with Onihei Gaiden: Kumagoro’s Face. Check our timeline for the full chronological breakdown.
Which is the highest-rated movie in the Onihei Gaiden?
According to movieMx ratings, the fans have a strong preference for Onihei Gaiden - Promise in the Shadows in this franchise.