Henshin

Henshin (変身) is the Japanese word for "transformation," literally meaning, "to change or transform the body." This word is primarily utilized in manga, anime, and tokusatsu dramas for when a character transforms into a superhero. Henshin heroes usually have a "henshin call," a catchphrase which they recite when they transform. The word "henshin" is most often used by characters in the Kamen Rider Series, whereas other programs use various words such as souchaku (装着) , or will utilize phrases unique to the story.

Styles of Henshin
Characters with a henshin ability can be devided into two broad groups. For some, the ability to transform is innate. It may be a natural ability of their species, the result of biological manipulation, or a magic spell of transformation. Takeshi Hongo (the original Kamen Rider), Guyvers and Zoanoids from the Guyver franchise, and most magical girls fall into this category.

Others receive their transformation ability from special equipment, frequently super-advanced technology or possessing mystical qualities. Here, the "transformation" is just a very rapid process of gearing up. Sometimes it only works for a certain individuals, while in other cases, whomever possesses it can transform. The armored heroes from both Saint Seiya and Yoroiden Samurai Troopers fall into this category, as do many Heisei era Kamen Riders.

Whether the transformation is an ability or equipment, henshin heroes frequently use a device of some kind to transform into their heroic form. Such devices are often voice activated, and saying one's henshin call is necessary to transform. This is frequently the case when the hero's powers are magical: the henshin call is actually an incantation or spell.

The form of the henshin device varies from series to series. The Super Sentai series frequently used wrist-worn devices, while the henshin belt is a trademark of Kamen Rider franchise. A magical girl's henshin device is typically a piece of jewelry or magical implement such as a wand or staff. Handheld devices (such as cellphones) are also common. Weapons also sometimes double as henshin devices.

Some characters with a henshin ability do not use devices. In the Guyver manga, anime, and films, neither the Guyvers nor the Zoanoids use devices. The Riders in Kamen Rider Hibiki also do not use henshin devices.

The hero's transformation is usually shown in a segment of stock footage which is inserted into each episode. These sequences are used to reduce costs-- since it only has to be shot or animated once-- and to pad out the length of an episode. Henshin sequences may also be a form of fanservice. Some programs which feature henshin do not use stock footage transformation scenes, and even those that do use the stock footage will sometimes omit it, having the character transform in a flash of light or other instantaneous visual effect.

In Other Media
Henshin appears in Western shows, especially if the shows are heavily influenced by anime or tokusatsu. Shows featuring henshin include Wonder Woman, Jem,  Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog, Ben 10, W.I.T.C.H., Mummies Alive!, and Winx Club.

List of anime and tokusatsu with henshin sequences

 * Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon (and its live-action remake Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon)
 * Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch
 * Tokyo Mew Mew
 * Kamen Rider
 * Super Sentai (known in the West as Power Rangers)
 * Powerpuff Girls Z
 * Shugo Chara!
 * Pretty Cure
 * Viewtiful Joe
 * Digimon
 * Ojamajo Doremi
 * Mega Man Star Force (anime)
 * Megaman NT Warrior
 * Mega Man ZX Advent
 * Magic Knight Rayearth
 * Magical DoReMi
 * Wedding Peach
 * Cutie Honey