Bleach is a shōnen manga series written and illustrated by Tite Kubo, first published in 2001. The story follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see spirits. His life changes when he meets Rukia Kuchiki, a Shinigami (soul reaper) tasked with purifying lost souls and protecting the world from Hollows, malevolent spirits that threaten humans. During an attack by a Hollow, Rukia is severely injured and, in an act of desperation, transfers her powers to Ichigo.

Ichigo then becomes a substitute Shinigami, taking on the responsibility of protecting his city from Hollows while learning to master his newfound powers. Soon, Ichigo is drawn into a world of intense combat, mysteries, and secrets related to the Shinigami universe. He discovers that his new abilities make him a target for powerful enemies, including the fearsome evolved Hollows called Arrancar and the Espada, led by the traitor Sosuke Aizen.