The Bakumatsu era, which lasted ten years ago, was a time of war that resulted in the overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate and the establishment of the Meiji age. Despite this new era's promise of peace and prosperity, there are still instances of violence and oppression. For example, swords have been banned, but people continue to be murdered on the streets. Additionally, orphans of war veterans lack support from the government, which seems more interested in lining its pockets than addressing their needs.
One such person who continues to fight for peace is Kenshin Himura, a former samurai and Hitokiri Battousai, known as the most ruthless killer among the revolutionaries. Now haunted by guilt over his past actions, he has sworn never to kill again in atonement for the lives he took. However, until killing is no longer necessary, Kenshin may not find true peace.
In the 11th year of Meiji, Kenshin encounters Kaoru Kamiya, owner and head instructor of a small dojo facing closure due to a series of murders committed in its name by a man claiming to be Battousai. Despite the police's inability to stop these crimes, Kenshin decides to join forces with Kaoru to clear both their names. However, he must constantly confront his past and the possibility that it may eventually catch up to him.
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan was published in English as Rurouni Kenshin by VIZ Media under the Shonen Jump imprint from December 23, 2003 to July 5, 2006 and again in 3-in-1 omnibus edition under Shonen Jump VIZBIG imprint from January 29, 2008 to March 16, 2010. The publisher has been releasing the series in 3-in-1 omnibuses since January 3, 2017.