Ninjas, or shinobi, were covert agents and skilled warriors in feudal Japan. They specialized in unconventional warfare tactics like espionage, sabotage, and assassination, often employed for mercenary purposes. Their methods, considered dishonorable by samurai, involved stealth and deception. While their distinct role emerged during the 15th-century Sengoku period, earlier precursors likely existed. Ninjas were adept in martial arts, including ninjutsu, utilizing their skills for infiltration, reconnaissance, and disrupting enemy operations.
1956: First Published Image of a Ninjatō
The year 1956 marked the first appearance of a ninjatō in a publication, specifically a booklet by Heishichirō Okuse. This image provided visual evidence of the weapon often associated with ninjas, sparking further interest and research into its history and use.
1960: Discovery of Ninja Weapons from the Siege of Odawara
Between 1960 and 2010, artifacts were uncovered that experts believe to be ninja weapons dating back to the Siege of Odawara in 1590. These weapons, including flat throwing stones and clay caltrops, provide insights into the tactics employed by ninjas during the siege.
2010: Analysis of Ninja Weapons from the Siege of Odawara
In 2010, analysis of artifacts unearthed between 1960 and 2010 confirmed them to be ninja weapons from the Siege of Odawara in 1590. The weapons, including flat throwing stones and clay caltrops, offered valuable insights into the combat strategies and resourcefulness of ninjas during that era.
2012: Last Ninja Heir Declines to Pass on Ninjutsu
In 2012, Jinichi Kawakami, considered the last authentic heir of ninjutsu, decided not to pass on his teachings, believing that ninjutsu has no place in modern times. Instead, he focused on research and preservation of ninjutsu history.
2017: Mie University Establishes World's First Ninja Studies Research Center
In 2017, Mie University established the world's first research center dedicated to the study of ninjas. This marked a significant step in recognizing the historical and cultural importance of ninjas and their practices.
February 25, 2018: Identification of Benkei Musō as a Foreign Ninja
On February 25, 2018, researchers identified Benkei Musō, a successful figure in early modern Ureshino, as a foreign ninja. This discovery challenged traditional assumptions about the exclusivity of ninjas to Japanese individuals and expanded the understanding of ninja history.
2018: Mie University Launches Master's Course in Ninja Studies
Following the establishment of the research center in 2017, Mie University launched a graduate master course in ninja studies in 2018, providing students with an opportunity for in-depth study of ninja history, techniques, and cultural significance.
2020: First Graduate from Mie University's Ninja Studies Master Course
Genichi Mitsuhashi became the first student to graduate from Mie University's master course of ninja studies in 2020. His accomplishment reflects a growing interest in the formal study and preservation of ninja history and traditions.
June 19, 2022: Discovery of "Kanrinseiyo" Manuscript
On June 19, 2022, a handwritten copy of "Kanrinseiyo", the original source for the famous ninja book "Bansenshukai" from 1676, was discovered in a warehouse of Kazuraki Shrine. The manuscript, dating back to 1748, provides valuable insights into the methods, tools, and strategies employed by ninjas during the Edo period.