Here's why:
* Target Audience: Shonen anime is specifically aimed at young boys. Bleach features themes and characters that appeal to this demographic.
* Action and Adventure: Bleach is full of intense action sequences, battles, and a strong focus on character development through their adventures.
* Supernatural Elements: The series revolves around the supernatural world of Soul Reapers, Hollows, and other mystical creatures, a common theme in Shonen.
* Friendship and Camaraderie: The story emphasizes the strong bonds between the protagonist Ichigo and his friends, a typical Shonen element.
While Bleach shares elements with other genres like:
* Supernatural: Due to the strong emphasis on supernatural powers and creatures.
* Action: Because of the fast-paced action sequences and focus on combat.
* Fantasy: The series' setting and world-building create a fantasy world with its own unique rules and lore.
Bleach's core identity, however, firmly places it within the Shonen genre.