"Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress" is one anime that continues to enjoy enduring popularity and is constantly in demand for a sequel. While the story itself is complete, fans are still eager to see more of the characters! This time, we'll be taking a closer look at the Kotetsujo from this hugely popular anime. While the story and characters naturally draw attention, the Kotetsujo itself is the unsung hero of the series.
What is the Kotetsujo?
Steam Locomotive
This is the Kotetsujo we'll be introducing today. It's so cool, isn't it? This Kotetsujo is a steam locomotive primarily used to transport supplies and escape from Kabane. It looks like it could fight like crazy. And with a roaring sound, it races across the railway network that spans the entirety of Hinomoto, the setting of the story. The Kotetsujo gives "Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress" a sci-fi feel.
Extraordinarily Advanced
The setting, Hinomoto, is, of course, Japan. While the geography and historical background up to the end of the Sengoku period remain the same, the 300 years since have seen significant changes. The biggest change is that the shogunate did not close its borders to the outside world. As a result, it adopted foreign cultures and technologies, developing them to extraordinary heights. The Kotetsujo is a steam locomotive powered by the McClarkey engine, developed in Britain. The story goes that the Kabane first appeared in the West and then invaded Hinomoto. Perhaps the Kabane would not have arrived if Japan had closed its borders.
The Only Means of Transportation
In addition to the Kotetsujo, which is the setting for "Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress," two other ships will appear. These include Fuso Castle, which was attacked by Kabane and all its crew members were transformed into Kabane, and Kokujo, the base of operations for the Karikatashu, an elite anti-Kabane unit. All of these steam locomotives are owned by the Shogunate and are commonly known as Hayajiro. They are the only means of transportation between stations in the world where the Kabane reside, and they are a means of transporting daily necessities between stations.
Influence
The railway elements of the Kotetsujo, including the film "Snowpiercer," were heavily influenced by the film. This is exactly what it would look like in a live-action version. It's a hugely popular film, having been selected as the opening film of the 2014 Los Angeles Film Festival!
What's Cool About the Kotetsujo?
Appearance
There are many cool things about the Kotetsujo, but the most impressive is its exterior. Its imposing construction, intimidating structure, and sheer power that makes even the Kabane seem invincible are irresistible! The design was created by Ippei Gyoubu, an illustrator active in the US as a mecha designer. This design is one you'd only expect from someone active overseas! It's bold.
Station
The stations where the Kotetsujo stops are walled as a defense against Kabane, with train tracks running through them. Within the walls is a large station, where inspections are carried out, gasoline is replenished, and supplies are unpacked. Around the station is a settlement, where people continue to live in fear of the Kabane. Each station is luxurious and spacious, and is said to be modeled after London's railways. Attention to detail is evident, making the Kotetsujo stand out.
Interior
The interior of the Kotetsujo has a simple, cold image. It feels even more mecha-like, and the driver's seat is exciting with all sorts of buttons and mechanisms (lol). It's designed to feel like you're on a spaceship, and it's simply cool. The attention to detail is just like in the movie, and you can really see the attention to detail.
Koutetsujo Crew
Ayame
Her real name is Yomokawa Ayame, 19 years old. She is the head of the Yomokawa family, who oversees Aragane Station, one of the Shunjo Castles. When Aragane Station was attacked by Kabane, her father was transformed into a Kabane and was pulled into the Kotetsujo, killing him. After desperately escaping aboard the Kotetsujo, she has been acting as the Kotetsujo's leader ever since. She's kind-hearted and still easily influenced by others' opinions, and while she's still immature in some ways, she's the most trustworthy person I know. Her favorite food is manju (lol).
Yukina
Yukina is a driver for the Kotetsujo, a member of the National Railways. She's calm and collected, quiet, but also earnest and dedicated to her work, making her a very reliable, big sister-like presence. Her muscular figure allows her to elegantly remove her jacket when driving seriously (such as when under attack by Kabane), protecting the Kotetsujo to the end. She's a cool big sister.
Suzuki
Suzuki, the mechanic, is eye-catching with his distinctive presence and his accent mixed with English. It's Suzuki! (lol) While he may seem like a playful character at first glance, he's actually an intellectual with a knack for castles and craftsmanship. Although he doesn't appear in the film, he apparently has a beautiful wife, and his brother is also a mechanic. For some reason, he narrates the previews for the next episode, so he's actually quite a character with a significant role.
Kurusu
Kurusu is one of the samurai serving the Shikatagawa clan. He is a strict and honest character, the epitome of a samurai. His original fighting style relied on a gun, but thanks to Ikoma and Takumi, he has changed to a sword-like style after being strengthened. He is naturally skilled with swords and is one of the people dedicated to defeating the Kabane. I adore irises (lol)
Kajika
Kajika is a steam blacksmith. He's a homely boy who actively helps with housework and babysitting. While he initially kept his distance from Mumei, they've now become good friends and share a mutual understanding. He cares for the people living on the Kotetsujo more than anyone else, and his kind personality makes him an oasis for everyone's hearts.
Sukari
This is Sukari, also a steam blacksmith. He's quite sarcastic, which initially annoyed me (lol). However, he's hardworking and excels at making calm judgments. He also has a strong sense of responsibility, making him a very reliable presence of mind. By the way, he does express his love for Yuna, but it's brushed aside (lol).
The Kotetsujo: My Lifeblood
Did you enjoy this video? [Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress] An Anime Fan Gives a Detailed Explanation of the Kotetsujo! As the title suggests, the Kotetsujo is an essential tool for defeating Kabane. Not only the interior and exterior, but all the characters who use it look cool. It's a steam locomotive that's part ship, part warplane, and full of romance! Be sure to check it out in the video.
