ninja
Japanese Name:
忍者
Romaji Name:
ninja
Description
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A ninja was a secret agent and warrior in Japan, especially during the feudal period. Ninjas were trained in stealth, martial arts, and espionage. They often wore dark clothing to move quietly at night and were skilled in using weapons like shuriken (throwing stars) and swords. Ninjas are famous in Japanese history and stories for their speed, cleverness, and ability to complete dangerous missions.
History
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Ninja first appeared in Japanese history during the Heian period (794–1185), but they became more prominent during the Sengoku period (15th–17th centuries) — a time of constant warfare in Japan.
Unlike the samurai, who followed the strict Bushido (warrior code) and fought openly in battle, ninja used stealth and deception to achieve their missions. They were often hired as spies or mercenaries by warlords.
The most famous ninja clans came from Iga and Kōga regions. These groups trained in ninjutsu — the art of stealth, survival, and warfare. Their skills included disguise, infiltration, escape techniques, and the use of special tools and weapons such as shuriken (throwing stars) and smoke bombs.
Over time, real historical ninja faded from use, especially after Japan was unified under the Tokugawa shogunate (1603–1868). However, stories and legends about ninja grew, often mixing fact with fiction.