1. Origins and Historical Background
1.1 Feudal Japan and the Role of the Shinobi
To understand Ninjutsu properly, we first need to understand the background of feudal Japan. At that time, Japan was divided into territories governed by daimyō, with the warrior class occupying the ruling position. Warriors were loyal to their lords and protected their domains with the sword. Amid constant warfare and struggles for power, however, many situations called for covert action and espionage rather than direct confrontation alone. This is where the ninja, or shinobi (忍び), came in. Their role was to support the daimyō through intelligence gathering, sabotage and infiltration, using means other than open battle.
Ninjutsu developed in response to these tactical and strategic needs. Rather than having the public presence of the warriors, ninja are said to have established bases in remote or mountainous regions, such as Iga and Kōga, and to have passed down distinctive techniques as secret teachings within families and clans. Living in geographically demanding conditions, they were valued for their survival skills, discretion and flexible thinking. A wide variety of methods was gradually systematised from these abilities.
1.2 The Development of Ninjutsu Schools
Over the centuries, several schools of Ninjutsu emerged and were passed down through the generations. Representative schools include Togakure Ryū, Gyokko Ryū, Kotō Ryū and Kumogakure Ryū. Each has its own technical, strategic and philosophical characteristics and has transmitted its distinctive secret teachings.
Togakure Ryū, in particular, is considered one of the oldest schools and is traditionally said to have been founded by Togakure Daisuke. It is known for preserving a broad range of methods, including Taijutsu, weapons techniques, concealment and intelligence gathering.
1.3 Historical Documents
Several texts, or historical documents, were compiled to pass knowledge of Ninjutsu on to later generations. Four of the best known are:
Bansenshūkai (『万川集海』)
An extensive work attributed to Fujibayashi Samuji Yasutake, covering ninja strategy, stratagems and principles of conduct.
Ninpiden (『忍秘伝』)
A work said to have been transmitted within Iga Ryū, teaching the mindset of the shinobi and numerous secret methods.
Shōninki (『正忍記』)
Said to compile the traditions of Kishū Ryū, it describes concealment, observation and psychological tactics in detail.
Ninpō Ikkan (『忍法一貫』)
A historical document frequently mentioned within Bujinkan lineages. It addresses the essence of the shinobi’s path and the importance of inner cultivation.
These texts are sometimes written in coded or figurative language. Their interpretation and oral transmission have helped preserve the character of “secret teachings” in Ninjutsu. One interesting feature is that they explore spirituality and philosophy in depth, rather than dealing solely with fighting techniques.
2. Philosophy and Fundamental Principles
2.1 Ninpō: An Enduring Mind and a Higher Principle
“Ninpō” is used almost synonymously with “Ninjutsu.” However, in contrast with jutsu (術: technique or method), hō (法: law or principle) carries a nuance of deeper spirituality and universal principles. Nin (忍) means patience or endurance, while also suggesting stealth and concealment. Ninpō can therefore be understood as a comprehensive concept that strongly incorporates spiritual training and a philosophical perspective, alongside its technical aspects.
In the philosophy of Ninjutsu, the spirit of nin—the mindset that endures adversity and adapts to every situation—is considered important. This also applies to everyday life, cultivating an attitude of continuous awareness of the present moment and flexible responses to one’s surroundings and circumstances.
2.2 Flexibility, Stealth and Resolve
The following elements can be identified as three pillars supporting the ninja’s mentality:
Flexibility
Developing the ability to respond immediately to unpredictable situations, using strength at times and strategy at others, acting alone or in coordination with companions, and operating across varied terrain.
Stealth
Learning not only to hide physically, but also to remain unobtrusive mentally and socially.
Resolve (heightened awareness)
Training oneself to perceive the environment and an opponent’s movements with 360-degree awareness, while calmly examining one’s own inner state. Meditation and introspection are useful habits for this purpose.
2.3 Balancing Compassion and the Need to Fight
Although images of ninja as assassins or merciless figures are widespread, many schools emphasise moral and spiritual training. Methods such as sabotage and assassination are regarded as exceptional measures, and the true path of the shinobi is said to reject needless violence.
This may seem contradictory, but the point is to use the necessary force for a just purpose. Working behind the scenes to preserve peace and stability, rather than harming others, might be considered the ideal image of the ninja.
3. Fundamental Ninjutsu Techniques
3.1 Taijutsu: The Art of Using the Body
Taijutsu (体術) refers to fighting techniques performed unarmed or with very simple weapons. More specifically, it includes the following elements:
Daken Taijutsu (打拳体術)
Striking methods that use the whole body, such as punches, kicks, elbow strikes and knee strikes.
Jūtaijutsu (柔体術)
Throws, joint locks, strangles and holds, among other methods.
Taihenjutsu (体変術)
Body movement and mobility skills, such as ukemi, rolling, leaping over obstacles and footwork.
Taijutsu in Ninjutsu is characterised by skilfully redirecting or absorbing an opponent’s movement and force. Rather than adhering too rigidly to traditional postures or trajectories, it often seeks unexpected angles and timing.
3.2 Buki Jutsu: Handling a Variety of Weapons
Ninjutsu features a wide variety of weapons. One of the ninja’s strengths is selecting them according to the situation and purpose, and using them with versatility. Representative weapons include:
Katana and Ninjatō (刀・忍者刀)
Unlike the katana as a symbol of the warrior, the ninjatō is somewhat shorter and designed to be easier to conceal and to use in confined spaces.
Shuriken (手裏剣)
These take many forms, including cross-shaped and straight types. They are used to make an opponent at a distance flinch or to interfere with their use of weapons.
Kusarigama (鎖鎌)
A weapon consisting of a sickle connected to a weight by a chain. It allows both attack and defence at close and longer range.
Bō and Hanbō (棒・半棒)
Various staff methods, including the six-shaku staff (three-shaku staff), are practised in ways shared across traditional martial arts.
Tantō (短刀)
A dagger suited to close combat or use in dark places.
Ninja value flexible thinking that allows everyday objects and natural materials to be adapted as weapons as well.
3.3 Concealment and Infiltration Techniques
The methods for acting without attracting attention could be described as the defining strength of Ninjutsu. They include the following practices and skills:
Walking without making footsteps audible: footwork, breathing and methods of synchronising with surrounding sounds.
Covert movement using vegetation and terrain: camouflage and movement in darkness.
Examining weaknesses in buildings and devising ways to enter through hidden openings or from high places.
Strategies for diverting another person’s attention, such as disguise, psychological tactics and the spread of misleading information.
These techniques always require strong concentration and calm powers of observation.
3.4 Using Natural Elements: Katon, Suiton, Doton and Others
Ninjutsu also transmits methods that skilfully use natural elements such as fire (Katon, 火遁), water (Suiton, 水遁), earth (Doton, 土遁), wind and air. In practice, their main applications are tactical rather than magical: Katon involves smoke screens or explosions using fire; Suiton involves underwater activity or the use of waterways; and Doton involves securing hiding places using the ground or terrain.
4. Spirituality and Esoteric Elements
4.1 The Influence of Mikkyō and Shugendō
Some Ninjutsu schools incorporate practices from Shingon esoteric Buddhism and Shugendō into spiritual training. One example is the idea of enhancing ki and concentration through esoteric techniques such as hand seals, mantra recitation and visualisation.
The influence of Shugendō, with its mountain ascetic practices, also cannot be overlooked. Austerities such as takigyō, or waterfall practice, in which the whole body receives the force of nature, were considered helpful for training the body and mind.
4.2 Kuji Goshinhō and Kuji-kiri
Among ninja, traditions hold that forming the kuji provides protection and strengthens the mind. The kuji-in of esoteric Buddhism comprise the following nine hand seals and mantras:
臨 — Rin: Strength
兵 — Pyō: Energy
闘 — Tō: Harmony
者 — Sha: Healing
皆 — Kai: Intuition
陣 — Jin: Sensitivity
列 — Retsu: Spatial awareness
在 — Zai: Control of the elements
前 — Zen: Awakening
Whether these are practised, and how they are interpreted, varies by school and instructor. Nevertheless, they are certainly connected with deeper elements such as mental concentration and the use of the body.
5. Ninjutsu in the Modern World
5.1 Inheritors of a Legacy: Masaaki Hatsumi and the Bujinkan
Despite Japan’s rapid modernisation, Ninjutsu has been passed down to the present without disappearing entirely. One of its central figures is Masaaki Hatsumi, founder of the Bujinkan. Hatsumi inherited the secret teachings of several schools from Toshitsugu Takamatsu, who was called “the last real ninja,” and spread them throughout the world through the Bujinkan.
The Bujinkan offers comprehensive instruction in several schools, including Togakure Ryū, Gyokko Ryū, Kotō Ryū and Shinden Fudō Ryū, teaching technique, strategy, philosophy and ethics together. Through overseas seminars led by the master, known as taikai (大稽古), Ninjutsu became widely known outside Japan as well.
5.2 The Diversification of Dojos and Teaching
Today, alongside Bujinkan-affiliated dojos, there are dojos worldwide belonging to lineages such as Genbukan (源武館) and Jinenkan (自然舘), which developed independently after leaving Hatsumi’s teaching.
Teaching styles vary widely: some dojos focus on practical self-defence close to street fighting, while others emphasise traditional and spiritual aspects.
I myself (Hervé’s note: “I” in this text refers to Mr Jérôme Pailliette) have also continued training in nature in Kyoto since 2006, focusing on Togakure Ryū Ninpō and preserving and transmitting this martial art:
“Having trained for more than 35 years under the guidance of Daishihan Masaaki Hatsumi, I hope to pass on his teachings in a way that fits a contemporary context. Kyoto’s rich natural surroundings provide an ideal setting for covert movement, flexible use of the body and the cultivation of alertness. In the forest, a single footstep or the feel of fallen leaves can reveal how one makes one’s presence stand out—or disappear. In this way, I continue working to bring the traditional spirit and techniques inherited from my teacher into the present.”
Training in nature in this way makes it possible, through ideal situations, to develop harmony with the environment, instantaneous judgment and inner stillness—the very essence of the ninja.
5.3 Ninjutsu and Popular Culture
Today, popular culture—including films, manga and games—has made the ninja a globally recognised icon. Well-known examples include Naruto and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, whose spectacular Ninjutsu and finishing moves attract fans ranging from children to adults.
At the same time, some people are confused by the gap between the images created by these works and the reality of traditional Ninjutsu. I (Jérôme) often meet people whose interest began with manga or anime. By sharing the true depth, history and philosophy of Togakure Ryū Ninpō with them, I have an opportunity to broaden their understanding of authentic Ninjutsu.
6. The Ninjutsu Training System: Structure and Progress
6.1 Progressive, Individually Adapted Learning
Learning Ninjutsu is not simply a matter of memorising a list of techniques. It is a comprehensive path whose true value emerges through physical and mental self-development. Many dojos therefore adjust their curricula to suit each person’s age, physical condition and goals, offering individualised instruction.
Training begins with warm-ups such as stretching and strength exercises, followed by foundational work on basic postures, striking and ukemi, before progressing to weapons and advanced body movement. Practical training outdoors and in natural surroundings, rather than only indoors, may also form an important part of the programme.
6.2 Cultivating Alertness and Observation
Ninjutsu training asks practitioners to pay attention not only inside the dojo, but also in everyday life. For example, they are encouraged to develop habits concerning how they walk through town, where they direct their gaze, and how they sense the surrounding atmosphere and changes in temperature.
Observing one’s inner state is also important. By noticing physical tension and emotional fluctuations, and learning ways to regulate them, practitioners can gain significant benefits not only in combat but also in areas such as stress management.
6.3 Randori and Practical Simulations
In addition to kata keiko, or practice of forms, many dojos introduce randori—sparring resembling free exchanges of attack and defence. This develops practical application and the ability to improvise.
Training may also involve more realistic exercises, such as covert movement at night or outdoors, or infiltration simulations using sensors or designated sentries, deepening tactical and psychological understanding. Through such training, practitioners come to understand experientially the concepts of “winning without being seen” and “exploiting an opponent’s blind spot,” which are among the true attractions of Ninjutsu.
7. The Value of Studying Ninjutsu Today
7.1 Self-defence and Building Confidence
Today, there is no longer a need to infiltrate an enemy castle, but Ninjutsu remains useful as a means of protecting oneself. Taijutsu includes many techniques suited to self-defence, such as redirecting an opponent’s force, applying joint locks and taking away weapons.
Through practising these techniques, one can naturally develop confidence and calm judgment, cultivating a mindset less prone to panic in tense situations.
7.2 Discipline and Growth in Life
As in many martial arts, Ninjutsu places importance on the process of improving oneself through sustained practice. Repeated training develops patience, courtesy and the habit of persevering in one’s efforts, which can be highly useful in daily life.
Furthermore, the principle of nin—endurance—is very beneficial in study, work and relationships. It helps develop the ability to address the task at hand patiently, without being carried away by a passing emotion.
7.3 Spiritual Exploration and Unity with Nature
Ninjutsu contains many elements that deepen spirituality, such as mountain and forest training and meditation. Accepting the forces of nature and finding harmony with them is also appealing as a way to recover the “inner stillness” and “connection with nature” that are easily lost in busy modern society.
Through such practice, many people re-examine themselves and cultivate a richer outlook on life.
8. How to Begin Ninjutsu
8.1 Finding a Trustworthy Dojo or Instructor
An instructor who has properly inherited the tradition is essential to learning Ninjutsu. Look for a dojo belonging to an established organisation such as the Bujinkan, Genbukan or Jinenkan and, if possible, visit or take part in a trial session.
It is important to research the instructor’s background, school and teaching approach, and to assess whether these seem compatible with your own aims and style.
8.2 Preparing Training Clothes and Equipment, and Practising Regularly
In many places, protective equipment and uniforms are not specified as clearly as in karate or judo, although some dojos recommend black training clothes, or keikogi/dōgi. For weapons, it is common to consider safety by using wooden swords, rubber or plastic imitation blades, and practice shuriken.
What matters most is continued practice. Steady repetition is essential for developing basic fitness and flexibility and thoroughly understanding the principles behind the techniques.
8.3 Studying History and Philosophy
Ninjutsu is by no means made up of physical techniques alone. Studying its historical background and spirituality, and reading historical documents and discussions of martial arts, allows for a deeper understanding.
It is also worth exploring religious and philosophical traditions connected with Ninjutsu, such as Mikkyō and Shugendō. Incorporating habits such as meditation into daily life can also help develop equanimity and concentration.
9. Conclusion: What an Ancient Martial Art Asks of the Present
Influenced by films and anime, you may associate the word “Ninjutsu” with spectacular action or superhuman techniques. In reality, however, Ninjutsu is a martial art integrating the physical, mental and spiritual, encompassing profound ideas such as “enduring,” “living in harmony with the environment” and “protecting from the shadows.”
Learning Ninjutsu today is an act of developing not only physical ability, but also self-awareness, consideration for others and harmony with nature. Although the techniques and attitudes cultivated in an age of warfare have changed over time, their underlying spirit has not been lost.
Ninjutsu is being reassessed from a variety of perspectives: effective martial practice, mental training for navigating a stressful society, and philosophical inquiry that enriches life. Rather than saying that “ninja live in darkness,” might the essence of Ninpō, or Ninjutsu, lie in a path of recognising our weaknesses and limitations and finding light within that understanding?
At NinjutsuKyoto.com, we continue to support the transmission of these ancient methods and their practical application in modern society. We hope this article helps readers understand Ninjutsu as a multilayered martial art and encourages those who are interested to explore a dojo or its literature. Please engage with books and practise under a teacher to experience the true depth of Ninjutsu. Beyond merely “hiding one’s presence,” a new light that illuminates life should await you there.
References and Recommended Reading
Bansenshūkai (『万川集海』)
A representative source covering ninja strategy, stratagems and philosophy.
Ninpiden (『忍秘伝』)
A work associated with Hattori Hanzō and Iga Ryū, describing concealment techniques and principles of conduct in detail.
Shōninki (『正忍記』)
A work attributed to Natori Masazumi, exploring psychological methods and shinobi ethics in depth.
The books of Masaaki Hatsumi
Explanations of the techniques, philosophy and history of the Bujinkan’s various schools. They also record Toshitsugu Takamatsu’s teachings.
Literature on Mikkyō and Shugendō
To everyone exploring the path of the ninja, I sincerely wish you a wonderful journey. Its essence is not to become invincible, but to learn to be guided by the light. As **“Ninjutsu Hiketsubun” (忍術秘訣文)** teaches us, this is achieved by connecting with Mother Nature and possessing the spirit of the heart (肝心要) and the divine eye (神心神眼). This path should be followed with joy, happiness, sincerity, courage, humility and insight.
Appearances, the pursuit of meaningless status, ego, arrogance or the desire for recognition must not obstruct this path. The true journey consists in cultivating fudōshin (不動心) and devoting oneself to mastering techniques in realistic situations through daily individual practice. This is grounded in the teachings and traditions of Toshitsugu Takamatsu and Masaaki Hatsumi.
This is the very essence of Ninpō.
Jérôme Pailliette
Instructor, Kyoto Ninjutsu Dojo