Sakamoto Days: The Retired Hitman Turned Grocery Store Legend

Imagine a legendary hitman so feared he could end wars with a single bullet—now imagine him running a family grocery store in peace... until his past comes knocking.

That’s the genius behind Sakamoto Days, the breakout anime that combines John Wick-level action with slice-of-life comedy and surprisingly deep emotional arcs.

🔫 Who Is Taro Sakamoto?

Once known as the most lethal assassin in the world, Taro Sakamoto left everything behind to live a quiet life with his wife and daughter. He gained weight, opened a neighborhood store, and traded his weapons for tomatoes and coupons.

But former assassins don’t stay retired for long.

When threats to his family arise, Sakamoto is forced to return to action—without ever killing a single soul. Yes, he’s still a pacifist, but he’ll outwit, outpunch, and outmaneuver anyone who threatens his peace.

🥋 Why the Action Feels So Fresh

What makes Sakamoto Days stand out in a crowded anime season is how fluid, creative, and hilarious its action sequences are.

Whether he’s:

• Defeating an entire gang using ramen noodles and a soup ladle, or

• Turning store shelves into booby traps,

• Or battling assassins on a moving train with nothing but duct tape,

Sakamoto brings inventive, non-lethal brutality that’s both thrilling and funny.

🧠 Humor That Hits Hard (And Soft)

Despite being action-packed, Sakamoto Days never forgets it’s a comedy at heart. Supporting characters like Shin—the mind-reading ex-hitman assistant—bring non-stop laughs and chaos. The chemistry between Shin, Lu (a martial arts expert with a tragic past), and Sakamoto is dynamic and full of banter.

Even side characters and villains are given bizarre, endearing quirks that make each confrontation memorable.

❤️ Underneath the Violence: A Family Man’s Heart

Sakamoto may be an ex-assassin, but he’s also a devoted husband and father. His desire to protect his family fuels every decision he makes, and his bond with them adds emotional depth that many action anime skip over.

Every episode is laced with moments that remind viewers that peace is worth fighting for, even if the world doesn’t let you have it easily.

🎨 Animation & Style

The animation, spearheaded by Studio TMS, is clean, snappy, and emphasizes kinetic choreography over visual fluff. The fight scenes are directed with a strong understanding of physics and momentum—every punch, flip, and dodge feels real, weighty, and satisfying.

Plus, the vibrant art style keeps things light even during dark moments, staying true to the manga’s balance of humor and grit.

🔥 Why It's Trending in 2025

• Adapted from a popular manga serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump

• Unique premise that blends assassin action with wholesome comedy

• Creative fights that avoid typical violence tropes

• Emotional core centered around family, loyalty, and redemption

• Gaining popularity via streaming platforms and fan communities

⭐ Final Verdict

Sakamoto Days is the anime you didn’t know you needed. It’s a hilarious, heartfelt, and high-octane ride through the life of a man who wants peace—but is still the deadliest person in any room.

With its strong pacing, lovable cast, and inventive action sequences, it’s quickly becoming one of the most binge-worthy series of 2025.