Recently, at an ancient temple in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, known as the “hometown of the Ninja,” a book with hundreds of years of history documenting numerous secret techniques of the Ninja was discovered.
The Mystique and Techniques of the Ninja
Ninja or shinobi, refers to individuals or organizations that specialized in covert operations throughout Japanese history, particularly during the Kamakura to Edo periods, focusing on unorthodox warfare.
Many humorously compare Ninja to special forces in the military. Their activities include espionage, sabotage, assassination, and even participating in ambushes under certain circumstances.
Ninjutsu is a distinct discipline in some traditional Japanese schools.
According to historical records, Ninjutsu is often referred to as the strategies and tactics of guerrilla warfare and espionage carried out by Ninja.
Ninjutsu is a specialized field in certain traditional Japanese schools, studying the integration of ancient martial arts from Japan, such as shurikenjutsu, kenjutsu, sojutsu, and bojutsu (related to skills in throwing darts, swordsmanship, pole techniques, etc.).
Mr. Jinichi Kawakami, known as the last Ninja in the world, is also the last person to be directly passed down the skills of Ninjutsu.
According to him, the main activities of a Ninja involve espionage and logistical operations on the battlefield. Ninja possess knowledge of chemistry to create explosives and utilize various mysterious weapons for attacks.
To become a Ninja, individuals must undergo decades of rigorous training in secret techniques to achieve combat skills that few military forces worldwide can match: moving on or under water, hiding in darkness, mastering advanced disguise skills, and invisibility.
The extraordinary abilities of ancient Ninja remain a mystery that intrigues many. Confidential documents regarding the techniques of Ninja are continually sought after.
Discovery of Ancient Book Containing Secrets of 48 Ninja Techniques
Previously, a famous book on Ninjutsu from Japan titled “Wanchuan Jihai”, compiled in 1676, mentioned another book called “Jianlin Qingyang.” This book has long been lost, and while it is known, its content remains unclear.
Recently, a copy of the Ninjutsu book “Jian Lin Qingyang” was discovered for the first time in the storage room of a temple in Koka City.
The book on Ninja techniques was first announced on Asahi News on June 20, 2022.
According to the announcement, this ancient book is a copy of the “Lin Qingyang Volume of Military Law,” comprising a total of 40 pages and recording 48 practical techniques of Ninja.
These include methods for detecting subtle sounds, creating silent footwear, and escaping when surrounded by enemies; techniques for strikes and cross-nailing with bamboo, etc.
This book is marked as “Volume In,” suggesting that a complete edition may include Volume 1 and Volume 2.
Through this ancient book, Professor Yamada from the International Ninja Research Center at Mie University noted that these Ninja integrated the most advanced science and technology of their time, providing insight into the scientific level of the Edo period.
Professor Isoda, a Japanese historian, also believes that with the information from this ancient book, we will have the opportunity to revive ancient techniques and tools, gaining a deeper understanding of the mysterious world of Ninja.
