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[[Image:Hokusai-sketches---hokusai-manga-vol6-crop.jpg|thumb|right|230px|Drawing of the archetypical ninja, from a series of sketches (''[[Hokusai manga]]'') by [[Hokusai]]. [[Woodblock printing in Japan|Woodblock print]] on paper. Volume six, 1817.]]

A {{nihongo|'''ninja''' or '''''shinobi'''''|忍者|}} was a covert agent or [[mercenary]] of [[feudal Japan]] specializing in unorthodox arts of war. The functions of the ninja included [[espionage]], [[sabotage]], [[Infiltration tactics|infiltration]], and [[assassination]], as well as open combat in certain situations.<ref name="ratti 1991 325">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|p=325}}</ref> The ninja, using covert methods of waging war, were contrasted with the [[samurai]], who had strict rules about honor and combat.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 5 6">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=5-6}}</ref>

In his ''Buke Myōmokushō'', military historian Hanawa Hokinoichi writes of the ninja:

{{cquote2|They travelled in disguise to other territories to judge the situation of the enemy, they would inveigle their way into the midst of the enemy to discover gaps, and enter enemy castles to set them on fire, and carried out assassinations, arriving in secret.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 17">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=17}}; Turnbull uses the name ''Buke Meimokushō'', an alternate reading for the same title. The ''Buke Myōmokushō'' cited here is a much more common reading.</ref>}}

The origin of the ninja is obscure and difficult to determine, but can be surmised to be around the 14th century.<ref name="Crowdy 2006 50">{{Harvnb|Crowdy|2006|p=50}}</ref> Few written records exist to detail the activities of the ninja. The word ''shinobi'' did not exist to describe a ninja-like agent until the 15th century, and it is unlikely that spies and mercenaries prior to this time were seen as a specialized group. In the unrest of the [[Sengoku period]] (15th - 17th centuries), mercenaries and spies for hire arose out of the [[Iga Province|Iga]] and [[Kōka, Shiga|Kōga]] regions of [[Japan]], and it is from these clans that much of later knowledge regarding the ninja is inferred. Following the unification of Japan under the [[Tokugawa shogunate]], the ninja descended again into obscurity.<ref name="Green 2001 355">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|p=355}}</ref> However, in the 17th and 18th centuries, manuals such as the ''[[Bansenshukai]]'' (1676) — often centered around [[China|Chinese]] military [[philosophy]] — appeared in significant numbers.<ref name="Green 2001 358">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|p=358}}; based on different readings, ''Ninpiden'' is also known as ''Shinobi Hiden'', and ''Bansenshukai'' can also be ''Mansenshukai''.</ref> These writings revealed an assortment of philosophies, religious beliefs, their application in warfare, as well as the espionage techniques that form the basis of the ninja's art. The word ''[[ninjutsu]]'' would later come to describe a wide variety of practices related to the ninja.

The mysterious nature of the ninja has long captured popular imagination in Japan, and later the rest of the world. Ninjas figure prominently in [[folklore]] and [[legend]], and as a result it is often difficult to separate historical fact from [[myth]]. Some legendary abilities include [[invisibility]], [[walking on water]], and control over natural elements. The ninja is also prevalent in [[popular culture]], appearing in many forms of entertainment media.

==Etymology==
[[Image:Ninja-kanji.svg|thumb|200px|left|The word "ninja" in [[kanji]] script]]

''Ninja'' is the ''[[on'yomi]]'' reading of the two [[kanji]] "忍者". In the native ''[[kun'yomi]]'' reading, it is read ''shinobi'', a shortened form of the longer transcription ''shinobi-no-mono'' (忍の者). The term ''shinobi'' has been traced as far back as the late 8th century to poems in the ''[[Man'yōshū]]''.<ref name="takagi">{{Harvnb|Takagi et al.|1962|p=191}}; the full poem is "''Yorozu yo ni / Kokoro ha tokete / Waga seko ga / Tsumishi te mitsutsu / Shinobi kanetsumo''".</ref><ref name="satake">{{Harvnb|Satake et al.|2003|p=108}}; the ''[[Man'yōgana]]'' used for "''shinobi''" is 志乃備, its meaning and characters are unrelated to the later mercenary ''shinobi''.</ref> The underlying connotation of ''shinobi'' ([[:wikt:忍|忍]]) means "to steal away" and — by extension — "to forbear", hence its association with stealth and invisibility. ''Mono'' ([[:wikt:者|者]]) means "a person".

Historically, the word ''ninja'' was not in common use, and a variety of regional [[colloquialism]]s evolved to describe what would later be dubbed ninjas. Along with ''shinobi'', some examples include ''monomi'' ("one who sees"), ''nokizaru'' ("[[Japanese macaque|macaque]] on the roof"), ''rappa'' ("ruffian"), ''kusa'' ("grass") and ''Iga-mono'' ("one from Iga").<ref name="Green 2001 355"/> In historical documents, ''shinobi'' is almost always used.

''[[Kunoichi]]'', meaning a female ninja,<ref name="Perkins 1991 241">{{Harvnb|Perkins|1991|p=241}}</ref> supposedly came from the characters くノ一 (pronounced ''ku'', ''no'' and ''ichi''), which make up the three strokes that form the [[kanji]] for "woman" (女).

In the [[Western world|West]], the word ''ninja'' became more prevalent than ''shinobi'' in the post-[[World War II]] culture, possibly because it was more comfortable for Western speakers.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 6">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=6}}</ref> In [[English language|English]], the plural of ''ninja'' can be either unchanged as ''ninja'', reflecting the Japanese language's lack of [[grammatical number]], or the regular English plural ''ninjas''.<ref>[[Oxford English Dictionary]], 2nd ed.; [[American Heritage Dictionary]], 4th ed.; Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1).</ref>

==History==
Despite many popular folktales, historical accounts of the ninja are scarce. Historian [[Stephen Turnbull (historian)|Stephen Turnbull]] asserts that the ninja were mostly recruited from the lower class, and therefore little literary interest was taken in them.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 5">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=5}}</ref> Instead, war epics such as the ''[[Tale of Hōgen]]'' ''(Hōgen Monogatari)'' and the ''[[Tale of the Heike]]'' ''(Heike Monogatari)'' focus mainly on the aristocratic samurai, whose deeds were apparently more appealing to the audience.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 6"/> Historian [[Kiyoshi Watatani]] states that the ninja were trained to be particularly secretive about their actions and existence:

{{quote|"So-called ''ninjutsu'' techniques, in short are the skills of ''shinobi-no-jutsu'' and ''shinobijutsu'', which have the aims of ensuring that one's opponent does not know of one's existence, and for which there was special training."<ref name="Turnbull 2007 144">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2007|p=144}}.</ref>}}

===Origins===

[[Image:Yamato Takeru at 16-crop.jpg|thumb|left|170px|Yamato Takeru dressed as a maidservant, preparing to kill the Kumaso leaders. Woodblock print on paper. [[Tsukioka Yoshitoshi|Yoshitoshi]], 1886.]]

The origin of the ninja is based on the spies and assassins that have existed throughout [[Japanese history]]. The title ''ninja'' has sometimes been attributed to the semi-legendary 4th century prince [[Yamato Takeru]].<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 34">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=34}}</ref> In the ''[[Kojiki]]'', the young Yamato Takeru disguised himself as a charming maiden, and assassinated two chiefs of the [[Kumaso]] people.<ref name="Chamberlain 2005 249-253">{{Harvnb|Chamberlain|2005|pp=249-253}}; Volume 2, section 80</ref> However, these records take place at a very early stage of Japanese history, and is unlikely to be connected to the ''shinobi'' of later accounts.

The first recorded use of espionage was under the employment of [[Prince Shōtoku]] in the 6th century.<ref name="ratti 1991 325"/> Such tactics were considered unsavory even in early times, when, according to the 10th century ''Shōmonki'', the boy spy [[Koharumaru]] was killed for spying against the insurgent [[Taira no Masakado]].<ref name="friday 2007 58 60">{{Harvnb|Friday|2007|pp=58-60}}</ref> Later, the 14th century war chronicle ''[[Taiheiki]]'' contained many references to ''shinobi'',<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 34"/> and credited the destruction of a castle by fire to an unnamed but "highly skilled ''shinobi''".<ref name="Turnbull 2003 7">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=7}}</ref>

However, it was not until the 15th century that spies were specially trained for their purpose.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 5"/> It was around this time that the word ''shinobi'' appeared to define and clearly identify ninjas as a secretive group of agents. Evidence for this can be seen in historical documents, which began to refer to stealthy soldiers as ''shinobi'' during the [[Sengoku period]].<ref name="Turnbull 2003 9">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=9}}</ref> Later manuals regarding espionage are often grounded in Chinese [[military strategy]], quoting works such as ''[[The Art of War]]'' ''(Sunzi Bingfa)'', by [[Sun Tzu]].<ref name="ratti 1991 324">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|p=324}}</ref>

===Development===

The ninja emerged as mercenaries in the 15th century, where they were recruited as spies, raiders, [[arson]]ists and even [[Terrorism|terrorists]]. Amongst the samurai, a sense of ritual and [[decorum]] was observed, where one was expected to fight or [[duel]] openly. Combined with the unrest of the [[Sengoku era]], these factors created a demand for men willing to commit deeds considered not respectable for conventional warriors.<ref name="ratti 1991 325"/><ref name="Turnbull 2003 5 6"/> By the Sengoku period, the ''shinobi'' had several roles, including [[spy]] (''kanchō''), [[Reconnaissance|scout]] (''teisatsu''), surprise attacker (''kisho''), and agitator (''koran'').<ref name="Turnbull 2003 9"/> The ninja families were organized into larger [[guild]]s, each with their own territories.<ref name="ratti 1991 327">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|p=327}}</ref> A system of rank existed. A ''jōnin'' ("upper man") was the highest rank, representing the group and hiring out mercenaries. This is followed by the ''chūnin'' ("middle man"), assistants to the ''jōnin''. At the bottom was the ''genin'' ("lower man"), field agents drawn from the lower class and assigned to carry out actual missions.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 121">{{Harvnb|Draeger|Smith|1981|p=121}}</ref>

=== Iga and Kōga clans ===

[[Image:ReizanView.JPG|thumb|right|250px|The plains of Iga, nested in secluded mountains, gave rise to villages specialized in the training of ninjas.]]

The Iga and Kōga clans have come to describe families living in the province of [[Iga Province|Iga]] (modern [[Mie Prefecture]]) and the adjacent region of [[Kōka, Shiga|Kōka]] (later written as ''Kōga''), named after a village in what is now [[Shiga Prefecture]]. From these regions, villages devoted to the training of ninjas first appeared.<ref name="Deal 2007 165">{{Harvnb|Deal|2007|p=165}}</ref> The remoteness and inaccessibility of the surrounding mountains may have had a role in the ninja's secretive development.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 121"/> Historical documents regarding the ninja's origins in these mountainous regions are considered generally correct.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 23">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=23}}</ref> The chronicle ''Go Kagami Furoku'' writes, of the two clans' origins:

{{quote|"There was a retainer of the family of Kawai Aki-no-kami of Iga, of pre-eminent skill in ''shinobi'', and consequently for generations the name of people from Iga became established. Another tradition grew in Kōga".<ref name="Turnbull 2003 23"/>}}

Likewise, a supplement to the ''Nochi Kagami'', a record of the [[Ashikaga shogunate]], confirms the same Iga origin:

{{quote|"Inside the camp at Magari of the [[Shogun]] <nowiki>[</nowiki>Ashikaga<nowiki>]</nowiki> [[Ashikaga Yoshihisa|Yoshihisa]] there were ''shinobi'' whose names were famous throughout the land. When Yoshihisa attacked [[Rokkaku Takayori]], the family of Kawai Aki-no-kami of Iga, who served him at Magari, earned considerable merit as ''shinobi'' in front of the great army of the Shogun. Since then successive generations of Iga men have been admired. This is the origin of the fame of the men of Iga."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 27"/>}}

A distinction is to be made between the ninja from these areas, and commoners or samurai hired as spies or mercenaries. Unlike their counterparts, the Iga and Kōga clans produced professional ninja, specifically trained for their roles.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 9"/> These professional ninja were actively hired by [[daimyo]]s between 1485 and 1581,<ref name="Turnbull 2003 9"/> until [[Oda Nobunaga]] invaded Iga province and wiped out the organized clans.<ref name="Green 2001 357">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|p=357}}</ref> Survivors were forced to flee, some to the mountains of [[Kii Mountains|Kii]], but others arrived before [[Tokugawa Ieyasu]], where they were well treated.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 9 10">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=9-10}}</ref> Some former Iga clan members, including [[Hattori Hanzō]], would later serve as Tokugawa's bodyguards.<ref name="Adams 1970 43">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=43}}</ref>

Following the [[Battle of Okehazama]] in 1560, Tokugawa employed a group of eighty Kōga ninja, lead by Tomo Sukesada. They were tasked to raid an outpost of the [[Imagawa clan]]. The account of this assault is given in the ''Mikawa Go Fudoki'', where it was written that Kōga ninja infiltrated the castle, set fire to its towers, and killed the [[castellan]] along with two hundred of the garrison.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 44 46">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=44-46}}</ref> The Kōga ninjas are said to have played a role in the later [[Battle of Sekigahara]] (1600), where several hundred Kōga assisted soldiers under [[Torii Mototada]] in the defence of [[Fushimi Castle]].<ref name="Turnbull 2003 47">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=47}}</ref> After Tokugawa's victory at Sekigahara, the Iga acted as guards for the inner compounds of [[Edo Castle]], while the Kōga acted as a police force and assisted in guarding the outer gate.<ref name="Adams 1970 43"/> In 1614, the initial "winter campaign" at the [[Siege of Osaka]] saw the ninja in use once again. Miura Yoemon, a ninja in Tokugawa's service, recruited ''shinobi'' from the Iga region, and sent ten ninjas into [[Osaka Castle]] in an effort to foster antagonism between enemy commanders.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 50">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=50}}</ref> During the later "summer campaign", these hired ninjas fought alongside regular troops at the [[Battle of Tennōji]].<ref name="Turnbull 2003 50"/>

===Shimabara rebellion===

A final but detailed record of ninjas employed in open warfare occurred during the [[Shimabara Rebellion]] (1637–1638).<ref name="Turnbull 2003 55">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=55}}</ref> The Kōga ninja were recruited by [[shogun]] [[Tokugawa Iemitsu]] against [[Christian]] rebels led by [[Amakusa Shirō]], who made a final stand at [[Hara Castle]], in [[Hizen Province]]. A diary kept by a member of the [[Matsudaira clan]], the ''Amakusa Gunki'', relates: "Men from Kōga in [[Omi Province]] who concealed their appearance would steal up to the castle every night and go inside as they pleased."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 51">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=51}}</ref>

The Ukai diary, written by a descendant of Ukai Kanemon, has several entries describing the reconnaissance actions taken by the Kōga.

{{quote|"They <nowiki>[</nowiki>the Kōga<nowiki>]</nowiki> were ordered to reconnoitre the plan of construction of [[Hara Castle]], and surveyed the distance from the defensive [[moat]] to the ''ni-no-maru'' (second [[motte-and-bailey|bailey]]), the depth of the moat, the conditions of roads, the height of the wall, and the shape of the loopholes."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 51"/> — <sub>Entry: 6th day of the 1st month</sub>}}

[[Image:Remains of Hara castle.jpg|thumb|right|230px|The ruins of Hara castle.]]

Suspecting that the castle's supplies may be running low, the siege commander [[Matsudaira Nobutsuna]] ordered a raid on the castle's provisions. Here, the Kōga captured bags of enemy provisions, and infiltrated the castle by night, obtaining secret passwords.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 52">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=52}}</ref> Days later, Nobutsuna ordered an intelligence gathering mission to determine the castle's supplies. Several Kōga ninja — some apparently descended from those involved in the 1562 assault on an [[Imagawa clan]] castle — volunteered despite being warned that chances of survival were slim.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 53">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=53}}</ref> A volley of shots were fired into the sky, causing the defenders to extinguish the castle lights in preparation. Under the cloak of darkness, ninja disguised as defenders infiltrated the castle, capturing a banner of the [[Christian cross]].<ref name="Turnbull 2003 53"/> The Ukai diary writes,

{{quote|"We dispersed spies who were prepared to die inside Hara castle. ...those who went on the reconnaissance in force captured an enemy flag; both Arakawa Shichirobei and Mochizuki Yo'emon met extreme resistance and suffered from their serious wounds for forty days."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 53"/> — <sub>Entry: 27th day of the 1st month</sub>}}

As the siege went on, the extreme shortage of food later reduced the defenders to eating [[moss]] and grass.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 54">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=54}}</ref> This desperation would mount to futile charges by the rebels, where they were eventually defeated by the shogunate army. The Kōga would later take part in conquering the castle:

{{quote|"More and more general raids were begun, the Kōga ninja band under the direct control of Matsudaira Nobutsuna captured the ''ni-no-maru'' and the ''san-no-maru'' (outer bailey)..."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 54 55">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=54-55}}</ref> — <sub>Entry: 24th day of the 2nd month</sub>}}

With the fall of [[Hara Castle]], the Shimbara Rebellion came to an end, and [[Christianity]] in Japan was forced [[Kakure Kirishitan|underground]].<ref name="Morton Olenik 2004 122">{{Harvnb|Morton|Olenik|2004|p=122}}</ref> These written accounts are the last mention of ninjas in war.<ref name="Crowdy 2006 52">{{Harvnb|Crowdy|2006|p=52}}</ref>

===Oniwaban===

In the early 18th century, shogun [[Tokugawa Yoshimune]] founded the ''oniwaban'', an [[intelligence agency]] and [[secret service]]. Members of this office, the ''[[oniwabanshū]]'' ("garden keeper"), were agents involved in collecting information on daimyos and government officials.<ref name="Tatusya 1991 443">{{Harvnb|Tatsuya|1991|p=443}}</ref> The secretive nature of the ''oniwaban'' — along with the earlier tradition of using Iga and Kōga clan members as palace guards — have lead some sources to define the ''oniwabanshū'' as "ninjas".<ref name="Kawaguchi 2008 215">{{Harvnb|Kawaguchi|2008|p=215}}</ref> This portrayal is also common in later novels and ''[[jidaigeki]]''. However, there is no written link between the earlier ''shinobi'' and the later ''oniwabanshū''.

== Roles ==

[[Image:Shoninki24 - disguises.gif|thumb|right|170px|A page from the ''Shōninki'' (1681), detailing a list of possible disguises.]]

The ninja were stealth soldiers and mercenaries hired mostly by [[daimyo]]s.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 29">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=29}}</ref> Their primary roles were those of espionage and sabotage, although assassinations were also attributed to ninjas. In battle, the ninja could also be used to cause confusion amongst the enemy.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 42">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=42}}</ref> A degree of psychological warfare in the capturing of enemy banners can be seen illustrated in the ''Ōu Eikei Gunki'', composed between the 16th and 17th centuries:

{{quote|"Within Hataya castle there was a glorious ''shinobi'' whose skill was renowned, and one night he entered the enemy camp secretly. He took the flag from Naoe Kanetsugu's guard ...and returned and stood it on a high place on the front gate of the castle."<ref name="Turnbull 2007 149">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2007|p=149}}</ref>}}

=== Espionage ===

Espionage was the chief role of the ninja. With the aid of disguises, the ninja gathered information on enemy terrain, building specifications, as well as obtaining passwords and communiques. The aforementioned supplement to the ''Nochi Kagami'' briefly describes the ninja's role in espionage:

{{quote|"Concerning ninja, they were said to be from Iga and Kōga, and went freely into enemy castles in secret. They observed hidden things, and were taken as being friends"<ref name="Turnbull 2003 27">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=27}}</ref>}}

Later in history, the Kōga ninja would become regarded as agents of the [[Tokugawa clan|Tokugawa]] ''[[bakufu]]'', at a time when the ''bakufu'' used the ninjas in an intelligence network to monitor regional daimyos as well as the [[Imperial Court in Kyoto|Imperial court]].<ref name="ratti 1991 327"/>

=== Sabotage ===

[[Arson]] was the primary form of sabotage practiced by the ninja, who targeted castles and camps.

The 16th century diary of abbot Eishun (''Tamon-in Nikki'') at ''Tamon-in'' monastery in [[Kōfuku-ji]] describes an arson attack on a castle by men of the Iga clans.

{{quote|"This morning, the sixth day of the 11th month of [[Tembun]] 10, the Iga-''shu ''entered Kasagi castle in secret and set fire to a few of the priests' quarters. They also set fire to outbuildings in various places inside the ''San-no-maru''. They captured the ''Ichi-no-maru'' (inner [[motte-and-bailey|bailey]]) and the ''Ni-no-maru''."<ref name="Turnbull 2003 28">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=28}}</ref>|<sub>Entry: 26th day of the 11th month of the 10th Year of [[Tenbun]](1541)</sub>}}

In 1558, [[Rokkaku Yoshitaka]] employed a team of ninja to set fire to [[Sawayama Castle]]. A ''chunin'' captain led a force of forty-eight ninja into the castle by means of deception. In a technique dubbed ''bakemono-jutsu'' ("ghost technique"), his men stole a lantern bearing the enemy's family crest (''[[Mon (crest)|mon]]''), and proceeded to make replicas with the same ''mon''. By wielding these lanterns, they were allowed to enter the castle without a fight. Once inside, the ninjas set fire to the castle, and Yoshitaka's army would later emerge victorious.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 43">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=43}}</ref> The mercenary nature of the ''shinobi'' is demonstrated in another arson attack soon after the burning of Sawayama Castle. In 1561, commanders acting under [[Kizawa Nagamasa]] hired three Iga ninja of ''genin'' rank to assist the conquest of a fortress in [[Maibara, Shiga|Maibara]]. Rokakku Yoshitaka, the same man who had hired Iga ninja just years earlier, was the fortress holder — and target of attack. The ''Asai Sandaiki'' writes of their plans: "We employed ''shinobi-no-mono'' of Iga. ...They were contracted to set fire to the castle".<ref name="Turnbull 2003 43 44">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=43-44}}</ref> However, the mercenary ''shinobi'' were unwilling to take commands. When the fire attack did not begin as scheduled, the Iga men told the commanders, who were not from the region, that they could not possibly understand the tactics of the ''shinobi''. They then threatened to abandon the operation if they were not allowed to act on their own strategy. The fire was eventually set, allowing Nagamasa's army to capture the fortress in a chaotic rush.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 43 44"/>

=== Assassination ===

The most well-known cases of assassination attempts involve famous historical figures. Deaths of famous persons have sometimes been attributed to assassination by ninjas, but the secretive nature of these scenarios have been difficult to prove.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 5"/> Assassins were often identified as ninjas later on, but there is no evidence to prove whether some were specially trained for the task or simply a hired mercenary.

[[Image:Oda Nobunaga-Portrait by Giovanni NIcolao.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Portrait of Oda Nobunaga, by [[Jesuit]] painter [[Giovanni Niccolo]], 1583-1590.]]

The warlord [[Oda Nobunaga]]'s notorious reputation led to several attempts on his life. In 1571, a Kōga ninja and [[sharpshooter]] by the name of Sugitani Zenjubō was hired to assassinate Nobunaga. Using two [[arquebus]]es, he fired two consecutive shots at Nobunaga, but was unable to inflict mortal injury through Nobunaga's armor.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 31">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=31}}</ref> Sugitani managed to escape, but was caught four years later and put to death by torture.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 31"/> In 1573, Manabe Rokurō, a vassal of daimyo [[Hatano Hideharu]], attempted to infiltrate [[Azuchi Castle]] and assassinate a sleeping Nobunaga. However, this also ended in failure, and Manabe was forced to commit suicide, after which his body was openly displayed in public.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 31"/> According to a document, the ''Iranki'', when Nobunaga was inspecting Iga province — which his army had devastated — a group of three ninjas shot at him with large-caliber firearms. The shots flew wide of Nobunaga, however, and instead killed seven of his surrounding companions.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 31 32">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=31-32}}</ref>

The ninja Hachisuka Tenzō was sent by Nobunaga to assassinate the powerful daimyo [[Takeda Shingen]], but ultimately failed in his attempts. Hiding in the shadow of a tree, he avoided being seen under the moonlight, and later concealed himself in a hole he had prepared beforehand, thus escaping capture.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 30">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=30}}</ref>

An assassination attempt on [[Toyotomi Hideyoshi]] was also thwarted. A ninja named [[Kirigakure Saizō]] (possibly Kirigakure Shikaemon) thrust a spear through the floorboards to kill Hideyoshi, but was unsuccessful. He was "smoked out" of his hiding place by another ninja working for Hideyoshi, who apparently used a sort of primitive "[[flamethrower]]".<ref name="Turnbull 2003 32">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=32}}</ref> Unfortunately, the veracity of this account has been clouded by later fictional publications depicting Saizō as one of the legendary [[Sanada Ten Braves]].

[[Uesugi Kenshin]], the famous daimyo of [[Echigo province]] was rumored to have been killed by a ninja. The legend credits his death to an assassin, who is said to have hid in Kenshin's lavatory, and gravely injured Kenshin by thrusting a blade or spear into his [[anus]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Nihon Hakugaku Kurabu|2006|p=36}}</ref> While historical records showed that Kenshin suffered abdominal problems, modern historians have usually attributed his death to [[stomach cancer]], [[esophageal cancer]] or [[cerebrovascular disease]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Nihon Hakugaku Kurabu|2004|pp=51-53}}; {{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=32}}</ref>

===Countermeasures===

A variety of countermeasures were taken to prevent the activities of the ninja. Precautions were often taken against assassinations, such as weapons concealed in the lavatory, or under a removable floorboard.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 26">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=26}}</ref> Buildings were constructed with traps and trip wires attached to alarm bells.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 128-129">{{Harvnb|Draeger|Smith|1981|pp=128-129}}</ref>

Japanese castles were designed to be difficult to navigate, with winding routes leading to the inner compound. Blind spots and holes in walls provided constant surveillance of these labyrinthine paths, as exemplified in [[Himeji Castle]]. [[Nijō Castle]] in [[Kyoto]] is constructed with long [[Nightingale floors|"nightingale" floors]], which rested on metal hinges (''uguisu-bari'') specifically designed to squeak loudly when walked over.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 29 30">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=29-30}}</ref> Grounds covered with [[gravel]] also provided early notice of unwanted intruders, and segregated buildings allowed fires to be better contained.<ref name="fieve 2003 116">{{Harvnb|Fiévé|Waley|2003|p=116}}</ref>

==Training==
{{See also|Ninjutsu}}

The skills required of the ninja has come to be known in modern times as ''[[ninjutsu]]'', but it is unlikely they were previously named under a single discipline. Modern misconceptions have identified ninjutsu as a form of combat art, but historically, ninjutsu largely covered espionage and [[survival skills]]. Some lineage styles (''[[ryūha]]'') of ninjutsu such as [[Togakure-ryū]] are claimed to be descended from historical practices.
[[Image:Bansenshukai-v8-diagram.jpg|thumb|left|230px|This diagram from the ''Bansenshukai'' uses [[divination]] and esoteric cosmology (''[[onmyōdō]]'') to instruct on the ideal time for taking certain actions.]]

The first specialized training began in the mid-15th century, when certain samurai families started to focus on covert warfare, including espionage and assassination.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 12">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=12}}</ref> Like the samurai, ninja were born into the profession, where traditions were kept in, and passed down through the family.<ref name="ratti 1991 327"/> According to Turnbull, the ninja was trained from childhood, as was also common in samurai families. Outside the expected martial art disciplines, a youth studied survival and scouting techniques, as well as information regarding poisons and explosives.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 14 15">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=14-15}}</ref> Physical training was also important, which involved long distance runs, climbing, stealth methods of walking<ref name="Green 2001 359-360">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|pp=359-360}}</ref> and swimming.<ref name="Deal 2007 156">{{Harvnb|Deal|2007|p=156}}</ref> A certain degree of knowledge regarding common professions was also required if one was expected to take their form in disguise.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 14 15"/> Some evidence of medical training can be derived from one account, where an Iga ninja provided first-aid to [[Ii Naomasa]], who was injured by gunfire in the [[Battle of Sekigahara]]. Here the ninja reportedly gave Naomasa a "black medicine" meant to stop bleeding.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 48">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=48}}</ref>

With the fall of the Iga and Kōga clans, [[daimyo]]s could no longer recruit professional ninjas, and were forced to train their own ''shinobi''. The ''shinobi'' was considered a real profession, as demonstrated in the [[bakufu]]'s 1649 law on military service, which declared that only daimyos with an income of over 10,000 ''[[koku]]'' were allowed to retain ''shinobi''.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 13">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=13}}</ref> In the two centuries that followed, a number of ''ninjutsu'' manuals were written by descendants of Hattori Hanzō as well as members of the Fujibayashi clan, an offshoot of the Hattori. Major examples include the ''Ninpiden'' (1655), the ''[[Bansenshukai]]'' (1675), and the ''Shōninki'' (1681).<ref name="Green 2001 358"/>

Some practitioners of modern ninjutsu include [[Stephen K. Hayes]] and [[Masaaki Hatsumi]], who is the head (''[[sōke]]'') of [[Bujinkan]], a martial arts organization based in Japan. However, the link between modern interpretations of ninjutsu and historical practices is a matter of debate.

===Tactics===

The ninja did not always work alone. Teamwork techniques exist: for example, in order to scale a wall, a group of ninja may carry each other on their backs, or provide a human platform to assist an individual in reaching greater heights.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 22">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=22}}</ref> The ''Mikawa Go Fudoki'' gives an account where a coordinated team of attackers used [[password]]s to communicate. The account also gives a case of deception, where the attackers dressed in the same clothes as the defenders, causing much confusion.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 44 46"/> When a retreat was needed during the [[Siege of Osaka]], ninja were commanded to fire upon friendly troops from behind, causing the troops to charge backwards in order to attack a perceived enemy. This tactic was used again later on as a method of crowd dispersal.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 50"/>

Most ''ninjutsu'' techniques recorded in scrolls and manuals revolve around ways to avoid detection, and methods of escape.<ref name="Green 2001 358"/> These techniques were loosely grouped under corresponding natural elements. Some examples are:

*'''''Hitsuke''''' - The practice of distracting guards by starting a fire away from the ninja's planned point of entry. Falls under "fire techniques" (''katon-no-jutsu'').<ref name="draeger smith 1981 125">{{Harvnb|Draeger|Smith|1981|p=125}}</ref>
*'''''[[Tanuki]]-gakure''''' - The practice of climbing a tree and camouflaging oneself within the [[foliage]]. Falls under "wood techniques" (''mokuton-no-jutsu'').<ref name="draeger smith 1981 125"/>
*'''''Ukigusa-gakure''''' - The practice of throwing [[duckweed]] over water in order to conceal underwater movement. Falls under "water techniques" (''suiton-no-jutsu'').<ref name="draeger smith 1981 125"/>
*'''''Uzura-gakure''''' - The practice of curling into a ball and remaining motionless in order to appear like a [[Rock (geology)|stone]]. Falls under "earth techniques" (''doton-no-jutsu'').<ref name="draeger smith 1981 125"/>

[[Image:Komuso Buddhist monk beggar Kita-kamakura.jpg|thumb|right|140px|A ''[[komusō]]'' monk is one of many possible disguises.]]

===Disguises===

The use of disguises is common and well documented. Disguises came in the form of priests, entertainers, fortune tellers, merchants, ''[[rōnin]]'', and monks.<ref name="Crowdy 2006 51">{{Harvnb|Crowdy|2006|p=51}}</ref> The ''Buke Myōmokushō'' states,

{{quote|''Shinobi-monomi'' were people used in secret ways, and their duties were to go into the mountains and disguise themselves as firewood gatherers to discover and acquire the news about an enemy's territory ... they were particularly expert at travelling in disguise.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 27"/>}}

A mountain ascetic (''[[yamabushi]]'') attire facilitated travel, as they were common and could travel freely between political boundaries. The loose robes of Buddhist priests also allowed concealed weapons, such as the ''[[tantō]]''.<ref name="Deal 2007 161">{{Harvnb|Deal|2007|p=161}}</ref> [[Minstrel]] or ''[[sarugaku]]'' outfits could have allowed the ninja to spy in enemy buildings without rousing suspicion. Disguises as a ''[[komusō]]'', a mendicant monk known for playing the ''[[shakuhachi]]'', were also effective, as the large "basket" hats traditionally worn by them concealed the head completely.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 18">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=18}}</ref>
{{-}}

==Equipment==

Ninjas utilized a large variety of tools and weaponry, some of which were commonly known, but others were more specialized. Most were tools used in the infiltration of castles. A wide range of specialized equipment is described and illustrated in the 17th century ''[[Bansenshukai]]'',<ref name="Turnbull 2003 19">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=19}}</ref> including climbing equipment, extending spears,<ref name="Turnbull 2003 48"/> [[rocket]]-propelled arrows,<ref name="Turnbull 2003 60">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=60}}</ref> and small collapsible boats.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 128">{{Harvnb|Draeger|Smith|1981|p=128}}</ref>

===Outerwear===

[[Image:Ninja Armour.jpg|thumb|right|180px|A suit of armor purportedly worn by ninjas]]

While the image of a ninja clad in black garbs (''[[shinobi shōzoku]]'') is prevalent in popular media, there is no written evidence for such a costume.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 16">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=16}}</ref> Instead, it was much more common for the ninja to be disguised as civilians. The popular notion of black clothing is likely rooted in artistic convention. Early drawings of ninjas were shown to be dressed in black in order to portray a sense of invisibility.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 17"/> This convention was an idea borrowed from the puppet handlers of ''[[bunraku]]'' theater, who dressed in total black in an effort to simulate [[Theatrical property|props]] moving independently of their controls.<ref name="Howell 1999 211">{{Harvnb|Howell|1999|p=211}}</ref> Despite the lack of hard evidence, it has been put forward by some authorities that black robes, perhaps slightly tainted with red to hide bloodstains, was indeed the sensible garment of choice for infiltration.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 17"/>

Clothing used was similar to that of the [[samurai]], but loose garments (such as leggings) were tucked into trousers or secured with belts. The ''[[tenugui]]'', a piece of cloth also used in martial arts, had many functions. It could be used to cover the face, form a belt, or assist in climbing.

The historicity of armor specifically made for ninjas cannot be ascertained. While pieces of light armor purportedly worn by ninjas exist and date to the right time, there is no hard evidence of their use in ninja operations. Depictions of famous persons later deemed ninjas often show them in [[Ō-yoroi|samurai armor]]. Existing examples of purported ninja armor feature [[lamellar armor|lamellar]] or [[ring mail]], and were designed to be worn under the regular garb. Shin and arm guards, along with metal-reinforced hoods are also speculated to make up the ninja's armor.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 17"/>

===Tools===

[[Image:Ninpiden kuroro kagi breaker.gif|thumb|left|180px|A page from the ''Ninpiden'', showing a tool for breaking locks.]]

Tools used for infiltration and espionage are some of the most abundant artifacts related to the ninja. Ropes and [[grappling hook]]s were common, and were tied to the belt.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 19"/> A collapsible ladder is illustrated in the ''Bansenshukai'', featuring spikes at both ends to anchor the ladder.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 20">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=20}}</ref> Spiked or hooked climbing gear worn on the hands and feet also doubled as weapons.<ref name="Mol 2003 121">{{Harvnb|Mol|2003|p=121}}</ref> Other implements include [[chisel]]s, [[hammer]]s, [[drill]]s, [[pickaxe|pick]]s and so forth.

The ''[[kunai]]'' was a heavy pointed tool, possibly derived from the Japanese [[masonry]] [[trowel]], to which it closely resembles. Although it is often portrayed in popular culture as a weapon, the ''kunai'' was primarily used for gouging holes in walls.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 61">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=61}}</ref> Knives and small saws (''hamagari'') were also used to create holes in buildings, where they served as a foothold or a passage of entry.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 20 21">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=20-21}}</ref> A portable listening device (''saoto hikigane'') was used to eavesdrop on conversations and detect sounds.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 21">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=21}}</ref>

The ''[[mizugumo]]'' was a set of wooden shoes supposedly allowing the ninja to walk on water.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 128"/> They were meant to work by distributing the wearer's weight over the shoes' wide bottom surface. The word ''mizugumo'' is derived from the native name for the [[Japanese water spider]] (''Argyroneta aquatica japonica''). The ''mizugumo'' was featured on the show [[Mythbusters]], where it was demonstrated unfit for walking on water. The ''ukidari'', a similar footwear for walking on water, also existed in the form of a round [[bucket]], but was probably quite unstable.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 62">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=62}}</ref> Inflatable skins and breathing tubes allowed the ninja to stay underwater for longer periods of time.<ref name="ratti 1991 329">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|p=329}}</ref>

Despite the large array of tools available to the ninja, the ''Bansenshukai'' warns one not to be overburdened with equipment, stating "...a successful ninja is one who uses but one tool for multiple tasks".<ref name="Green 2001 359">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|p=359}}</ref>

===Weaponry===
Although shorter swords and daggers were used, the ''[[katana]]'' was probably the ninja's weapon of choice, and was sometimes carried on the back.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 18"/> The katana had several uses beyond normal combat. In dark places, the scabbard could be extended out of the sword, and used as a long probing device.<ref name="Adams 1970 52">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=52}}</ref> The sword could also be laid against the wall, where the ninja could use the sword guard (''[[tsuba]]'') to gain a higher foothold.<ref name="Adams 1970 49">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=49}}</ref> While straightswords were used before the invention of the katana,<ref name="Reed 1880 269 270">{{Harvnb|Reed|1880|pp=269-270}}</ref> the straight ''[[ninjatō]]'' has no historical precedent and is likely a modern invention.

[[Image:Kusarigama-crop.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A pair of ''kusarigama'', on display in [[Iwakuni Castle]].]]

An array of [[darts]], spikes, knives, and sharp, [[star]]-shaped discs were known collectively as ''[[shuriken]]''. While not exclusive to the ninja,<ref name="Mol 2003 119">{{Harvnb|Mol|2003|p=119}}</ref>
they were an important part of the arsenal, where they could be thrown in any direction.<ref name="ratti 1991 328 329">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|pp=328-329}}</ref> Bow were used for sharpshooting, and some ninjas bows were intentionally made smaller than the traditional ''[[yumi]]'' (longbow).<ref name="ratti 1991 328">{{Harvnb|Ratti|Westbrook|1991|p=328}}</ref> The chain and sickle (''[[kusarigama]]'') was also used by the ninja.<ref name="Adams 1970 55">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=55}}</ref> This weapon consisted of a weight on one end of a chain, and a sickle (''[[Kama (weapon)|kama]]'') on the other. The weight was swung to injure or disable an opponent, and the sickle used to kill at close range. Simple gardening tools such as Kunai and sickles were used as weaponry so that if discovered a ninja could claim they are his tools and not weapons, despite their ability to be used in battle.

Explosives introduced from [[China]] were known in Japan by the time of the [[Mongol Invasions of Japan|Mongol Invasions]] (13th century).<ref name="Bunch Hellemans2004 161">{{Harvnb|Bunch|Hellemans|2004|p=161}}</ref> Later, explosives such as hand-held bombs and grenades were adopted by the ninja.<ref name="ratti 1991 329"/> Soft-cased bombs were designed to release smoke or poison gas, along with fragmentation explosives packed with iron or pottery [[Fragmentation (weaponry)|shrapnel]].<ref name="Turnbull 2003 22"/>

Along with common weapons, a large assortment of miscellaneous arms were associated with the ninja. Some examples include poison,<ref name="Turnbull 2003 19"/> [[caltrop]]s,<ref name="Mol 2003 176">{{Harvnb|Mol|2003|p=176}}</ref> cane swords (''[[shikomizue]]''),<ref name="Mol 2003 195">{{Harvnb|Mol|2003|p=195}}</ref> land mines,<ref name="draeger smith 1981 127">{{Harvnb|Draeger|Smith|1981|p=127}}</ref> [[Fukiya|blowguns]], poisoned darts, [[acid]]-spurting tubes, and firearms.<ref name="ratti 1991 329"/> The ''happō'', a small eggshell filled with blinding powder (''[[metsubushi]]''), was also used to facilitate escape.<ref name="Mol 2003 124">{{Harvnb|Mol|2003|p=124}}</ref>

==Legendary abilities==

[[Superhuman]] or [[supernatural]] powers were often associated with the ninja. Some legends include flight, [[invisibility]], [[shapeshifting]], the ability to "split" into multiple bodies, the summoning of animals, and control over the [[Five elements (Japanese philosophy)|five classical elements]]. These fabulous notions have stemmed from popular imagination regarding the ninja's mysterious status, as well as romantic ideas found in later Japanese arts of the [[Edo period]]. Magical powers were sometimes rooted in the ninja's own efforts to disseminate fanciful information. For example, Nakagawa Shoshujin, the 17th century founder of Nakagawa-ryū, claimed in his own writings (''Okufuji Monogatari'') that he had the ability to transform into birds and animals.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 13"/>

Perceived control over the elements may be grounded in real tactics, which were categorized by association with forces of nature. For example, the practice of starting fires in order to cover a ninja's trail falls under ''katon-no-jutsu'' ("fire techniques").<ref name="Mol 2003 176"/>

[[Image:Actor-as-nikki-danjo-kunisada-1857.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Actor portraying Nikki Danjō, a villain from the kabuki play ''Sendai Hagi''. Shown with hands in a ''[[kuji-in]]'' seal, which allows him to transform into a giant [[rat]]. Woodblock print on paper. [[Kunisada]], 1857.]]

The ninja's adaption of [[kite]]s in espionage and warfare is another subject of legends. Accounts exist of ninjas being lifted into the air by kites, where they flew over hostile terrain and descended into, or dropped bombs on enemy territory.<ref name="draeger smith 1981 128"/> Kites were indeed used in Japanese warfare, but mostly for the purpose of sending messages and relaying signals.<ref name="Buckley 2002 257">{{Harvnb|Buckley|2002|p=257}}</ref> Turnbull suggests that kites lifting a man into midair might have been technically feasible, but states that the use of kites to form a human "[[Hang gliding|hang glider]]" falls squarely in the realm of fantasy.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 22 23">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|pp=22-23}}</ref>

===Kuji-kiri===

''[[Kuji-kiri]]'' is an esoteric practice which, when performed with an array of hand "seals" (''[[kuji-in]]''), was meant to allow the ninja to enact superhuman feats.

The ''kuji'' ("nine characters") is a concept originating from [[Taoism]], where it was a string of nine words used in charms and incantations.<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 2 3">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=2-3}}</ref> In [[China]], this tradition mixed with [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] beliefs, assigning each of the nine words to a Buddhist deity. The ''kuji'' may have arrived in Japan via Buddhism,<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 8 11">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=8-11}}</ref> where it flourished within [[Shugendō]].<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 13">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|p=13}}</ref> Here too, each word in the ''kuji'' was associated with Buddhist deities, animals from Taoist mythology, and later, Shinto [[kami]].<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 24 27">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=24-27}}</ref> The ''[[mudrā]]'', a series of hand symbols representing different Buddhas, was applied to the ''kuji'' by Buddhists, possibly through the esoteric ''[[Mikkyō]]'' teachings.<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 24 25">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=24-25}}</ref> The ''[[yamabushi]]'' ascetics of Shugendō adopted this practice, using the hand gestures in spiritual, healing, and [[exorcism]] rituals.<ref name="Teeuwen Rambelli 2002 327">{{Harvnb|Teeuwen|Rambelli|2002|p=327}}</ref> Later, the use of ''kuji'' passed onto certain ''[[bujutsu]]'' (martial arts) and ''[[ninjutsu]]'' schools, where it was said to have many purposes.<ref name="Waterhouse 1996 31 33">{{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|pp=31-33}}</ref> The application of ''kuji'' to produce a desired effect was called "cutting" (''kiri'') the ''kuji''. Intended effects range from physical and mental concentration, to more incredible claims about rendering an opponent immobile, or even the casting of magical spells.<ref name="Adams 1970 29">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=29}}; {{Harvnb|Waterhouse|1996|p=31}}</ref> These legends were captured in popular culture, which interpreted the ''kuji-kiri'' as a precursor to magical acts.

==Famous people==

Many famous people in Japanese history have been associated or identified as ninjas, but their status as ninja are difficult to prove and may be the product of later imagination. Rumors surrounding famous warriors, such as [[Kusunoki Masashige]] or [[Minamoto no Yoshitsune]] sometimes describe them as ninjas, but there is little evidence for these claims. Some well known examples include:

[[Image:Kumawakamaru by kuniyoshi - 24 paragons of filial piety.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Kumawakamaru escapes his pursuers by swinging across the moat on a [[bamboo]].<ref name="McCullough 2004 49">{{Harvnb|McCullough|2004|p=49}}</ref> Woodblock print on paper. [[Utagawa Kuniyoshi|Kuniyoshi]], 1842-1843.]]

*[[Mochizuki Chiyome]] (16th cent.) - The wife of Mochizuke Moritoki. Chiyome created a school for girls, which taught skills required of [[geisha]], as well as espionage skills.<ref name="Green 2001 671">{{Harvnb|Green|2001|p=671}}</ref>
*[[Fujibayashi Nagato]] (16th cent.) - Considered to be one of three "greatest" Iga ''jōnin'', the other two being Hattori Hanzō and Momochi Sandayū. Fujibayashi's descendents wrote and edited the ''Bansenshukai''.
*[[Fūma Kotarō]] (d. 1603) - A ninja rumored to have killed Hattori Hanzō, with whom he was supposedly rivals. The fictional weapon ''[[Fūma shuriken]]'' is named after him.
*[[Hattori Hanzō]] (1542–1596) - A samurai serving under [[Tokugawa Ieyasu]]. His ancestry in Iga province, along with ''ninjutsu'' manuals published by his descendants have led some sources to define him as a ninja.<ref name="Adams 1970 34">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=34}}</ref> This depiction is also common in popular culture.
*[[Ishikawa Goemon]] (1558–1594) - Goemon reputedly tried to drip poison from a thread into [[Oda Nobunaga]]'s mouth through a hiding spot in the ceiling,<ref name="Adams 1970 160">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=160}}</ref> but many fanciful tales exist about Goemon, and this story cannot be confirmed.
*[[Kumawakamaru]] (13th-14th cent.) - A youth whose exiled father was ordered to death by the monk Homma Saburō. Kumakawa took his revenge by sneaking into Homma's room while he was asleep, and assassinating him with his own sword.<ref name="McCullough 2004 48">{{Harvnb|McCullough|2004|p=48}}</ref>
*[[Momochi Sandayū]] (16th cent.) - A leader of the Iga ninja clans, who supposedly perished during Oda Nobunaga's attack on Iga province. There is some belief that he escaped death and lived as a farmer in [[Kii Province]].<ref name="Adams 1970 42">{{Harvnb|Adams|1970|p=42}}</ref> Momochi is also a branch of the Hattori clan.
*[[Yagyū Muneyoshi]] (1529–1606) - A renowned swordsman of the [[Shinkage-ryū]] school. Muneyoshi's grandson, Jubei Muneyoshi, told tales of his grandfather's status as a ninja.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 29"/>

==In popular culture==
[[Image:Jiraiya - kuniyoshi - japanese heroes for the twelve signs.jpg|thumb|180px|left|[[Jiraiya]] battles a giant snake with the help of his summoned [[Japanese Common Toad|toad]]. Woodblock print on paper. [[Utagawa Kuniyoshi|Kuniyoshi]], c. 1843.]]

{{Main|Ninja in popular culture}}

The image of the ninja entered popular culture in the [[Edo period]], when [[Japanese folklore|folktale]]s and plays about ninjas were conceived. Stories about the ninja are usually based on historical figures. For instance, many similar tales exist about a daimyo challenging a ninja to prove his worth, usually by stealing his pillow or weapon while he slept.<ref name="Turnbull 2003 14">{{Harvnb|Turnbull|2003|p=14}}</ref> Novels were written about the ninja, such as ''[[Jiraiya Gōketsu Monogatari]]'', which was also made into a [[kabuki]] play. Fictional figures such as [[Sarutobi Sasuke]] would eventually make way into comics and television, where they have come to enjoy a [[culture hero]] status outside of their original mediums.

Ninja appear in many forms of Japanese and Western popular media, including books (''[[The Kouga Ninja Scrolls|Kōga Ninpōchō]]''), television (''[[Sasuke (TV series)|Ninja Warrior]]''), movies (''[[Ninja Assassin]]''), [[Satire]] (''[[REAL Ultimate Power]]: The Official Ninja Book'') [[video games]] (''[[Tenchu]]''), [[anime]] (''[[Naruto]]''), [[manga]] (''[[Basilisk (manga)|Basilisk]]'') and Western [[comic book]]s (''[[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]] and [[G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero]]''). Depictions range from realistic to the fantastically exaggerated, both fundamentally and aesthetically, and often portray ninja in non-factual ways for humor or entertainment.

{{-}}

==See also==
{{col begin}}
{{col-2}}
* [[Ninjutsu]]
* [[Iga-ryū]]
* [[Kōga-ryū]]
* [[Kunai]]
* [[Kunoichi]]
{{col-2}}
* [[Oniwabanshū]]
* [[Shuriken]]
* [[Sengoku period]]
* [[Samurai]]

{{col end}}

==Footnotes==
{{Reflist|colwidth=20em}}

==References==
{{refbegin}}

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*{{citation |last = Reed |first = Edward James |title = Japan: its history, traditions, and religions: With the narrative of a visit in 1879, Volume 2 |year = 1880 |publisher = John Murray |oclc = 1309476 }}
*{{citation |last = Satake |first = Akihiro |authorlink = |coauthors = Hideo Yasumada, Rikio Kudō, Masao Ōtani, Yoshiyuki Yamazaki |title = Shin Nihon Koten Bungaku Taikei: Man'yōshū Volume 4 |publisher = Iwanami Shoten |year= 2003 |location = |pages = |url = | doi = |isbn = 4-00-240004-2 }}
*{{citation |last = Takagi |first = Ichinosuke |authorlink = |coauthors = Tomohide Gomi, Susumu Ōno |title = Nihon Koten Bungaku Taikei: Man'yōshū Volume 4 |publisher = Iwanami Shoten |year= 1962 |location = |pages = |url = |doi = |isbn = 4-00-060007-9 }}
*{{citation |last= Tatsuya |first= Tsuji |others = translated by Harold Bolitho, edited by John Whitney Hall |title = The Cambridge history of Japan Volume 4: Early Modern Japan: Chapter 9 |year= 1991 |publisher = Cambridge University Press |location = New York |isbn = 978-0521223553 }}
*{{citation |last = Teeuwen |first = Mark |last2 = Rambelli |first2 = Fabio |title = Buddhas and kami in Japan: honji suijaku as a combinatory paradigm |year = 2002 | publisher = RoutledgeCurzon |isbn = 978-0415297479 }}
*{{citation |last = Turnbull |first = Stephen |authorlink = Stephen Turnbull (historian) | title = Ninja AD 1460-1650 |year = 2003 |publisher = Osprey Publishing | isbn = 978-1841765259 }}
*{{citation |last = Turnbull |first = Stephen |title = Warriors of Medieval Japan |year = 2007 |publisher = Osprey Publishing |isbn = 978-1846032202 }}
*{{citation |last= Waterhouse |first= David |others = edited by Peter F. Kornicki and James McMullen |title = Religion in Japan: arrows to heaven and earth, article 1: Notes on the kuji |year= 1996 |publisher = Cambridge University Press |location = |isbn = 978-0521550284 }}

{{refend}}

==Further reading==
<div class="references-small">

*Fujibayashi, Masatake; Nakajima, Atsumi. (1996). ''Shōninki: Ninjutsu densho''. Tokyo: Shinjinbutsu Ōraisha. [[OCLC]] 222455224.
*Fujita, Seiko. (2004). ''Saigo no Ninja Dorondoron''. Tokyo: Shinpūsha. ISBN 978-4797494884.
*Fukai, Masaumi. (1992). ''Edojō oniwaban : Tokugawa Shōgun no mimi to me''. Tokyo: Chūō Kōronsha. ISBN 978-4121010735.
*Hokinoichi, Hanawa. (1923–1933). ''Buke Myōmokushō''. Tokyo: Yoshikawa Kōbunkan. [[OCLC]] 42921561.
*Ishikawa, Masatomo. (1982). ''Shinobi no sato no kiroku''. Tokyo: Suiyōsha. ISBN 978-4880661100.
*Nawa, Yumio. (1972). ''Hisshō no heihō ninjutsu no kenkyū: gendai o ikinuku michi''. Tokyo: Nichibō Shuppansha. [[OCLC]] 122985441.
*Nawa. Yumio. (1967). ''Shinobi no buki''. Tokyo: Jinbutsu Ōraisha. [[OCLC]] 22358689.
*Okuse, Heishichirō. (1967). ''Ninjutsu: sono rekishi to ninja''. Tokyo: Jinbutsu Ōraisha. [[OCLC]] 22727254.
*Okuse, Heishichirō. (1964). ''Ninpō: sono hiden to jitsurei''. Tokyo: Jinbutsu Ōraisha. [[OCLC]] 51008989.
*Watatani, Kiyoshi. (1972). ''Bugei ryūha hyakusen''. Tokyo: Akita Shoten. [[OCLC]] 66598671.
*Yamaguchi, Masayuki. (1968). ''Ninja no seikatsu''. Tokyo: Yūzankaku. [[OCLC]] 20045825.

</div>

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* [http://iganinja.jp/en/ Iga-ryu Ninja Museum]
* [http://www.illuminatedlantern.com/cinema/archives/ninja.php History of the concept of the ninja, especially in theatre]

[[Category:Japanese warriors]]
[[Category:Japanese martial arts terms]]
[[Category:Ninja|*]]
[[Category:Ninjutsu|*]]
[[Category:Mercenary units and formations]]

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Revision as of 15:26, 14 April 2010

alexis constantinacos is best friends with shane D and we are ninjas

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