The myth around the Japanese Ninja (忍者) is famous worldwide. Being a spy, agent and assassin at the same time, stories of their skill and exploits spread beyond the borders of Japan. Hundreds of thousands of comic books, games, movies and stories are dealing with the topic of the invisible assassins in feudal Japan. Wherever you are from, chances are you have heard the word Ninja before.
How did the myth around a group of assassins gain popularity worldwide, and where do Ninja come from originally?
The reputation of the Ninja is based on their acrobatic skills and ability to disappear without a trace after completing their duty. The Shinobi (忍び), Ninja elite, were able to climb wooden buildings without making any noise, leaving their potential target clueless.
Ninja were employed during the Sengoku Period of Japan, which was basically a giant power struggle between different warlords and families, fighting for borders and claiming each other’s land. Sending huge armies into battle was an expensive undertaking, which is why some warlords made use of a Ninja’s services to get the enemy’s generals out of the way in a quick and silent way.
Even though Ninja were considered “without honor” for their methods, they soon became a frequently used tool to thin out enemy leadership and steal information or tactics.
The first Ninja are said to have originated from Kōga, a town in the province of Iga. Even today, it is said to be the home of the Ninja. If you’re interested in the topic, there are still demonstrations and shows of Ninja skills and combat in the historical Ninja schools in Iga!
http://www.japanese-school-asahi.com/
