how to become a ninja

Tabata, Tokyo

Train like a Ninja (Part 1): Tokyo Ninjutsu Workshop

Ancient ninjas were renowned for their mastery of ninjutsu – the most renowned and misunderstood of all martial arts. In this unique experience you can learn 5 basic ninjutsu techniques from a real-life ninja master and head of the ancient Musashi Ichizoku ninja clan. Take your first step on the path to ninja-hood!

Iga, Mie

Train like a Ninja (Part 2): Iga Ninja Camp

As all ninja activities demanded absolute secrecy, a ninja base training camp was always located in a remote mountainous area. The most famous ninjutsu traditions developed the Iga region east of Osaka, now located in Mie Prefecture, and can still be visited by anyone fascinated by ninja culture and in possession of a warrior spirit. Learn what it takes to become a modern-day fighter spy at a camp in Iga.

Yokohama, Kanagawa

Sleep like a Ninja: Business Inn New City in Yokohama

Recover from ninjutsu training at Business Inn New City in Yokohama, an unassuming capsule hotel which actually conceals a secret ninja lair on the 5th floor. Decorated with ninja silhouettes, secret ninja symbols, deadly magnet throwing stars, and even with traditional sound-absorbing tatami mats, a stay at this hotel allows guests to complete immerse themselves in the shadow world of the Japanese ninja. You can even use your ninjutsu skills to find the 10 hidden ninjas in the hotel and receive a special reward.

Akasaka, Tokyo

Dine like a Ninja: Ninja Restaurant

Enter the top-secret ninja compound and discover… a delicious steak dinner? Ninjas-at-heart will feel right at home at Ninja restaurant in Tokyo, designed to resemble a medieval Japanese village – with all servers dressed as ninjas. From hidden rooms to secret menus to surprise attacks by rival ninja clans – this is a dining experience that will definitely keep you on your toes!

Koka, Shiga

Study Ninja Forbearers: Koka Ninja Village

Koka City in Shiga Prefecture is also renowned for being one of Japan's two great ancient ninja strongholds. Only 1 hour from Kyoto, visitors can study the Ninja's cunning craft and everyday way-of-life at the Ninja Estate and the Ninja Village. There ninja aficionados can learn the how ancient ninjas trained, defended against invaders, and built ingenious houses to hide top-secret weapons, medicine, and people.

Kanazawa, Ishikawa

Meditate like a Ninja: Myoryuji Ninja Temple

The perfect place to end your ninja adventures is the famous Ninja Temple (formally known as Myoryuji) in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. Although a functioning Buddhist temple, Myoryuji was designed to double as a secret military outpost and is one of the best of the very few authentic 'ninja-proofed' buildings in Japan. The 350-year-old building is truly an invader's nightmare – complete with hidden rooms, secret passageways, concealed staircases, false doors and various other cunning defensive features. Take time to pray, meditate, and end your trip with a clear head and pure heart.