Japanese Martial Arts Before & After 1868 — “Old Style” vs Modern
Did you know that Japanese martial arts are classified as modern or pre-modern? So before you train in…
What’s the Science Behind Kuji Kiri (aka. Ninja Hand Signs)?
Forming symbols with his hands, the ninja mutters some strange words. In an instant, he becomes calm but…
Sarutobi Sasuke & the Original Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course
Ninja Warrior and Sarutobi Sasuke. The first one’s a popular obstacle course competition. And the latter is a…
Tengu Folklore Retold by an American (who visited Japan in 1870)
According to folklore, the ninja were the descendants of tengu – legendary beings with long noses and hawk-like heads. These beings lived in…
Bruce Lee Quiz – What were the secrets in ‘Letters of the Dragon’?
How intimately do you know Bruce Lee? Do you know what’s in his private letters? Try this 20-question…
Jiraiya Folklore retold by an American (who visited Japan in 1870)
Editor’s note: This version of Jiraiya folklore was written by William Elliot Griffis. During Japan’s modernisation, he was invited to Japan…
The Tale of The Gallant Jiraiya (Original Folklore) – from Edo Period
Most people know Jiraiya, Tsunade and Orochimaru from the Naruto series. But did you know that these characters…
The 3 Stages of a Scientific Ninja Exhibition at the Miraikan (Tokyo)
When someone utters the word ‘ninja,’ what you envision might differ greatly from the person next to you. You…
Finding Hattori Hanzo’s Grave in Tokyo – Iga Ninja Legend
Most people will know this name when you ask them about real life ninja. A name immortalized by history…