Overview
| Summary | Rider, Henshin! is the iconic transformation phrase used in the long-running Japanese superhero series Kamen Rider. Shouted with a dramatic pose, this command activates the character’s transformation from an ordinary person into a masked hero. The phrase embodies themes of justice, bravery, and personal awakening. Over the decades, it has become deeply ingrained in Japanese pop culture and is instantly recognizable to fans of tokusatsu (special effects-based live-action shows). |
| Japanese Writing | ライダー、変身！（らいだー、へんしん！） |
| Genre | Superhero Catchphrase / Tokusatsu Transformation Call |
| Typical Age Group | 30–70 years old Kamen Rider is a long-running Japanese television series. The most iconic transformation pose from the original Kamen Rider is deeply familiar to Japanese people in their 30s to 70s. While the phrase “Rider, Henshin!” has been passed down through the generations, the actual transformation movements vary from series to series. |
| Audience | Fans of Japanese superheroes and tokusatsu shows Viewers of Kamen Rider series (past and present) Anyone interested in transformation-themed action stories |
| Popularity | ★★★★★ |
| Relevance | ★★★★☆ Despite originating in the 1970s, Kamen Rider continues to air new seasons and gain new fans. The phrase “Rider, Henshin!” remains an essential part of the franchise, echoed across generations and often referenced in anime, memes, and fan culture. |
| Usability | ★★★☆☆ |
| When to Use | When jokingly gearing up for a task or challenge (e.g., “Time to clean my room—Rider, Henshin!”) As a nostalgic reference among tokusatsu fans When dramatically mimicking a transformation scene with friends |
| How to Use | Stand confidently and strike a transformation pose Shout with energy and conviction: “Rider, Henshin!” Optionally, make a whooshing sound or spin around like you’re transforming |
| Cultural Note | The phrase debuted with the original Kamen Rider (1971), a series that combined motorcycle stunts, martial arts, and insect-themed armor to create a new kind of hero. The “Henshin” sequence—accompanied by flashing lights and sound effects—became a hallmark of the franchise. It also influenced countless other series, including Super Sentai (Power Rangers) and Ultraman. To this day, “Rider, Henshin!” evokes childhood excitement, heroism, and the fantasy of instant transformation. The author, Shotaro Ishinomori, is also the creator of the Super Sentai series. You can also study phrases from Himitsu Sentai Goranger here! |
Original performance
You can hear a similar phrase at about 15:46 in this YouTube video.
In the second installment of the Kamen Rider series, Kamen Rider V3, the original Riders also made a guest appearance.
This is a video from that episode.
Since it features the original transformation pose, it’s highly recommended to start by mastering this version first.
Trivia
The original Kamen Rider was initially designed to transform by riding a motorcycle, with wind power activating the belt mechanism.
However, during filming, Hiroshi Fujioka—the actor playing the original Kamen Rider—was injured in an accident.
As a result, a new character, Hayato Ichimonji (Kamen Rider No.2), was introduced as a substitute, played by Takeshi Sasaki.
Since Sasaki did not have a motorcycle license, a different transformation method was required.
This led to the creation of the iconic “Rider, Henshin!” transformation pose.
After this new transformation aired, the popularity of Kamen Rider skyrocketed.