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The World of Ninjas: History, Ninjutsu Schools, and Ninja Experiences
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The ninja is a mysterious and captivating icon of Japanese culture. Are ninjas fictional or did they actually exist? Where can one still experience ninja culture today? This article provides an overview of the hidden world of these stealthy, shadowy figures.
Written by
I used to live in Japan and managed to conquer 78 out of the 100 famous castles and 12 existing castle towers in 8 years. As a history enthusiast, I also have a passion for baseball and Japanese dramas, which have driven me to visit all 47 prefectures. I hope to convey not only the scenery of Japan but also more of its culture and way of life.
Japan's Ninja Culture
1. What is a Ninja?
2. Famous Ninjas in History
3. Ninja Schools
4. Ninja-Related Entertainment Culture
5. Top 7 Ninja Experiences in Japan
What is a Ninja?
Practitioners of ninjutsu (the art of stealth, camouflage, and sabotage) are referred to as ninja.
According to the Japanese ancient text "Chronicles of Omi," ninjas can infiltrate enemy castles, observe and listen for secrets, and inform those on their own side.
There are many theories about the origins of ninjutsu. However, it is generally believed to have originated in the latter half of the 13th century to resist the feudal estates' oppressive powers. The names for these individuals varied by region, with terms like "Rappa," "Suppa," and "Kusa."
After entering the Muromachi Period (1336-1573), the influence of temples and shrines managing the estates weakened. This caused active bandits to transition into "Jizamurai" (local samurai).
By the Warring States Period (1467-1603), these individuals became mercenaries for warlords such as the Oda and Tokugawa clans, participating in battles in areas like Kyoto and Nara.
They would infiltrate enemy camps to set fires, cause destruction, conduct night raids, lay ambushes, and gather intelligence. The most important task was to report the status of the enemy back to their lord.
During this time, ninjas were referred to as "shinobi." The term "ninja" became popularized in the 1950s due to its use in novels and other materials.
One of the ninjutsu weapons, the shuriken, captured at the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
Among the most famous stories is that of future shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu escaping from Osaka's Sakai City back to Okazaki after the Incident at Honnoji Temple (1582), escorted by Iga and Koga ninjas as they traversed Iga to return.
During the Edo Period (1603-1868), there was peace, which drastically decreased opportunities for ninjas to engage in combat. Therefore, their primary duties shifted to intelligence gathering and security.
The Tokugawa shogunate notably employed the Iga-born general Hattori Masanari (Hanzo III, Iwami no Kami), even naming one of the gates of Edo Castle after him. This is where the present-day Tokyo location of Hanzomon comes from.
Entering the Meiji Era (1868-1912) and establishing a new government system, ninjas lost even more operational space, ultimately drawing to a close.
Famous Ninjas in History
Hattori Hanzo
Hattori Hanzo refers to the head of the Hattori clan that was active under the Tokugawa family from the Warring States Period to the Edo Period.
Each successive head was called Hattori Hanzo, but the only true ninja among them was the Hanzo II, Hattori Masanari (Oni no Hanzo), who spread the name Hattori Hanzo far and wide.
Ideura Morikiyo
A ninja who served the Sanada clan during the Warring States Period, Ideura Morikiyo is the prototype for the character Kirigakure Saizo in the novel Sanada Ten Braves.
Fuma Ninjas
The Fuma ninjas served the Hojo clan during the Warring States Period and are one of the prototypes for the literary character Fuma Kotaro.
Ninja Schools
Iga and Koga are two Japanese provinces that are not far from Kyoto. Both areas are surrounded by mountains that form a natural stronghold, which naturally delineates local powers. Below are two of the most famous ninja schools.
Iga-ryu (The Iga School)
Picture of Courtesy PIXTA
Ninjas belonging to the Iga-ryu (The Iga School), originating from Iga Province (now Iga City in Mie Prefecture), excel in rapid movement in mountainous areas.
They are characterized by their use of incantations and gunpowder-based fire techniques. The training methods of Iga ninjas are unique and rigorous, cultivating exceptional ninjas.
The organization of the Iga-ryu has a hierarchical structure primarily guided by the opinions of the three upper-ranking families—Hattori, Momochi, and Fujibayashi.
Although there is a system of consensus, most of the time, they still adhere to the opinions of the three upper-ranking families. The relationship between Iga ninjas and their employers is based on monetary contracts, and situations sometimes arise where employers are adversaries.
Koka-ryu (The Koka School)
Continuing the history of Koka-ryu ninjas' medical proficiency, the existing Koka-ryu ninja residence holds a pharmaceutical certification
The Koka-ryu ninjas, separated from the Iga-ryu by just one mountain, are based in Koga Province (now Koka City in Shiga Prefecture).
They typically gather intelligence through farming and selling medicines and are known for their skills in magic and medicinal use. Koga ninjas have a long history of using medicine, and there are still many pharmaceutical companies in Koka City today.
The organization of the Koka-ryu is based on a consensus system called "So," which does not distinguish between ranks. Proposals related to the entire district are decided by majority vote, differing from the Iga-ryu's structure.
Another difference is that the Koka-ryu maintains a loyal master-servant relationship with a single lord.
Comparison of Iga-ryu vs Koka-ryu
Many believe Iga-ryu and Koka-ryu are bitter enemies, but this impression originated from later fictional portrayals. In reality, there was no such animosity between the two.
| Iga-ryu | Koka-ryu | |
| Expertise in Ninjutsu | Fire techniques related to gunpowder Incantations | Medicinal use Magic |
| Internal Organizational Structure | Hierarchical structure, primarily governed by the three upper-ranking families | Consensus-based organization called "So," with decisions made by the majority vote |
| Relationship with Employers | Employment through monetary contracts | Loyal master-servant relationship with one lord |
Ninja-Related Entertainment Culture
Photo by PIXTA
Ninja-related folklore and literature have been popular since ancient times. Therefore, although these stealth figures have disappeared from real society after the Meiji era (1868-1912), they have continued to thrive in novels, films, and other creative works.
Particularly during the Meiji era, characters such as Sarutobi Sasuke and Kirigakure Saizo were quite popular.
Live-Action Dramas
- 2016 Taiga drama (epic television series) "Sanada Maru": The ninja Sasuke, who assists the protagonist with missions, is inspired by Sarutobi Sasuke. Hattori Hanzo also makes an appearance.
- 2016 "Sanada Ten Braves": Adapted from the novel of the same name, it tells the story of the warlord Sanada Yukimura and his retainers, including Sarutobi Sasuke and Kirigakure Saizo, from the late Warring States period to the early Edo period.
- 2017 "Mumon: The Land of Stealth": Starring Satoshi Ohno and Satomi Ishihara, it narrates the events of the Tensho Iga War from the perspective of the Iga region.
- 2023 Taiga drama "What Would You Do, Ieyasu?": Features active ninjas and the warlord Hattori Hanzo (played by Takayuki Yamada).
- 2024 Netflix series "House of Ninjas": Set in modern-day Japan, it tells the story of a family that runs a sake brewery but is, in fact, a ninja clan.
Comics/Anime
- Ninja Hattori-kun
- Ninja Rantaro
- Naruto
Top 7 Ninja Experience Locations
1. Koka Ninja House (Koka-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki)
The Ninjutsu Residence is filled with hidden mechanisms
The present-day Koka City is the historical stronghold of the Koga-ryu ninjas. The Koka Ninja House (Koga-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki) in Koka City is the residence of the Mochizuki family, one of the 53 families of the Koga-ryu, built between 1688 and 1704.
It looks like an ordinary traditional Japanese house from the outside. However, the interior contains many traps and mechanisms that visitors can experience firsthand.
The furnishings inside also reflect the characteristics of Koga-ryu ninjutsu—medicinal use. Although the Mochizuki residence is smaller than other theme parks, it is a uniquely historic ninja house.
The Koka Ninja House (Koga-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki)
2331 Ryuhoshi, Konan-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 520-3311
This is a tourist facility related to ninjas located in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture. This ninjutsu mansion is a replica of an actual ninja's residence, and introduces ninjas' secret actions, codes, and how to use weapons. What is particularly distinctive about the mansion is that there are hidden rooms and secret passages within the mansion that allow visitors to experience the world of ninjas. There is also a corner where you can experience ninja techniques, where you can actually learn how to throw swords and shuriken.
Hotels near The Koka Ninja House (Koga-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki)
2. Koka Ninja Village (Koka no Sato Ninjutsu Village)
Located in Koka City, Koka Ninja Village (Koka no Sato Ninjutsu Village) is a theme park centered around ninjutsu.
In addition to a ninjutsu museum, the site offers various hands-on experiences such as shuriken (hand-held weapon) throwing, water spider techniques for walking on water, and wall climbing, ensuring that children have a great time!
Koka Ninja Village (Koka no Sato Ninjutsu Village)
394 Oki, Koka-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 520-3405
Koga Ninjutsu Village is a ninja theme park located in Koga City, Shiga Prefecture. It is a facility where you can experience the history and culture of Koga-ryu ninjas, and enjoy a variety of ninja-related attractions and exhibits. Inside the park, there are replicas of actual ninja houses, hidden rooms, and secret passageways, where you can actually see ninja techniques and life. There is also a ninja training area where you can try out a variety of activities, such as throwing shuriken, blowguns, and tightrope walking, where you can try out ninja skills.
3. Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
Shuriken experience inside the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum.
Iga City is the main stronghold of the Iga-ryu ninjas. The Iga-ryu Ninja Museum within the Iga Ueno Castle introduces ninja mechanisms through a ninja guide upon entry. This unique experience allows visitors to observe ninja life up close.
There are also ninjutsu performances, shuriken experiences, and a well-equipped ninja museum where one can learn much about ninja-related knowledge and history.
Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
117 Uenomarunouchi, Iga City, Mie Prefecture 518-0873
Hotels near Iga-ryu Ninja Museum
4. NINJA Hall (Historical Experience Hall) in Odawara Castle
Picture of Courtesy PIXTA
The Fuma ninjas once served the former lord of Odawara Castle, the Hojo clan. In 2019, Odawara Castle established the NINJA Hall.
Through videos and exhibits, it introduces the history of the Hojo clan's five generations and the story of the Fuma ninjas. Adults, children, and overseas travelers who may not understand Japanese can fully enjoy the charm of ninjas.
Odawara Castle
Jonai, Odawara City, 250-0014 Prefecture
Hotels near Odawara Castle
5. Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Picture courtesy of Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is a theme park themed around the Warring States and Edo periods. The ninja grand theater within the park features ninja shows that explain ninjutsu and weapons. It even offers a service for visitors to dress up as ninjas!
EDO WONDERLAND Nikko Edomura
321-2524 470-2 Karakura, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
When you arrive at Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura, you will be greeted by the streets of Japan's Edo period and people dressed as people from the Edo period.
A different space spreads out that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time to the Edo period.
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is a theme park that recreates Japan (Edo period) about 300 years ago. You can experience the culture of the Edo period, such as samurai, ninjas, courtesans, kimonos, and swords, as well as the food and entertainment of the Edo period.
Nikko Edomura has 81 attractive spots such as experiences, theater, dining, and souvenir shops.
Edo Wonderland "Nikko Edomura" has four theaters showing a variety of performances.
From the thrilling ninja stage to the human comedy that brings laughter and tears, you can experience every emotion as you hop through several theaters.
You too can disguise yourself as a samurai, ninja, town girl, etc. and pretend to be someone from the Edo period!
Hotels near EDO WONDERLAND Nikko Edomura
6. Kyoto Studio Park (Toei Uzumasa Eigamura)
Picture courtesy of PIXTA
Kyoto Studio Park (Toei Uzumasa Eigamura) is located on the west side of Kyoto City. It is a period drama theme park frequently used as a filming location.
The park features various set facilities, including a ninja mechanism house where visitors can experience escape mechanisms like revolving doors and hidden passages. Three ninja shows are also scheduled each day.
Kyoto Studio Park (Toei Uzumasa Eigamura)
10 Uzumasa Higashiokacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 616-85...
Toei Kyoto Studio Park is a movie theme park located in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, and is especially popular as a spot where you can experience the world of period dramas. This facility, which opened in the 1950s, has areas that recreate movie sets and filming studios, allowing you to experience as if you were inside a movie.
Inside the movie park, there is a "period drama town" that recreates the streets of the Edo period, and a "ninja show" where you can learn ninja techniques, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the world of period dramas. You can also visit the sets actually used for filming and take commemorative photos wearing period costumes.
In addition, actual movies and dramas are sometimes filmed at the movie park, so you can enjoy the valuable experience of learning about the behind-the-scenes of movies. There are plenty of activities that can be enjoyed by children and adults, and it is a particularly recommended tourist destination for those who love movies and history.
Hotels near Kyoto Studio Park (Toei Uzumasa Eigamura)
7. Nijigen no Mori in Awaji Island
Picture courtesy of KKday
Located on Awaji Island, the Nijigen no Mori amusement park features a NARUTO & BORUTO Ninja Village, a theme park based on the popular ninja anime "Naruto." Visitors can practice hand signs here, and there are designed challenge missions for a full day of fun.
Nijigen no Mori
2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301
The world of anime and pop culture comes to life at Nijigen no Mori Anime Theme Park on Awaji Island! Jump into the worlds of all kinds of anime stories at Nijigen no Mori, an experience found nowhere else. From taking on a ninja challenge at NARUTO & BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO or tackling obstacle courses with Crayon Shin-chan, to jumping into the RPG world to embark on adventures in the world of "Dragon Quest," or zooming straight into the colossal stomach of Godzilla, there’s something for everyone here! Anime themed food, souvenirs and workshops also abound in this wacky, wonderful world.
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Hotels near Nijigen no Mori
Enjoy Ninja Culture in Japan
The mysterious allure of ninja culture has not faded over time. In recent years, it has been swept into the global spotlight through manga, dramas, and other works.
If you have the opportunity to visit Japan, consider including a ninja museum or a site where you can experience ninjutsu and fulfill your ninja dreams!
Read also
Written by
I used to live in Japan and managed to conquer 78 out of the 100 famous castles and 12 existing castle towers in 8 years. As a history enthusiast, I also have a passion for baseball and Japanese dramas, which have driven me to visit all 47 prefectures. I hope to convey not only the scenery of Japan but also more of its culture and way of life.
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