Looks at the history of the ninja and their martial arts, demonstrates the use of various weapons, and clears up misconceptions about the ninja.

This is the only book on the art of ninjutsu written by Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, the 34th-generation leader of the togakure-ryu ninjutsu tradition. This best-seller contains training and fighting secrets known only to the ninja of ancient Japan.

Discussing the philosophy of Ninjutsu, including apparel, weaponry, and training techniques, this is the definitive book on the subject from the most famous Ninja grandmaster in the world. 450 photos.

Step-by-step instructions and over 300 photographs allow the trainee to follow and learn the techniques with ease. The ideal weapon for self-defense is a stick. To find a comprehensive system of techniques using the stick, we must turn to the East, for systems known to the West have fallen into disuse. In this book, the techniques of Kukishin Ryu—an ancient Japanese method—have been updated and adapted for use today. A thorough grounding in the fundamentals dealt with here will enable you to disarm and control any assailant. CONTENTS Section 1: Basic Movements Section 2: Techniques against First Attack Section 3: Techniques against Foot Attacks Section 4: Techniques against Wrist Holding Section 5: Techniques against Sleeve and Lapel Holding Section 6: Techniques against Seizure from Behind Section 7: Techniques against Stick Holding Section 8: Immobilizations

Budo is the spiritual way of the martial arts that all practitioners must follow if they are to be true martial artists. In this book, Masaaki Hatsumi explores the very essence of Budo, and demonstrates an array of important techniques relating to this essence, explaining how the concept of Budo transcends any one combat technique and is at the core of all the many martial arts developed in Japan. The author also reveals secret techniques and the hidden principles of the martial arts, and elucidates the words of his master, Toshitsugu Takamatsu, on Budo and life. Including many photos, works of calligraphy, illustrations, and documents on the martial arts and their role in Japanese culture, The Essence of Budo will resonate with practitioners of all martial traditions including judo, Aikido, karatedo, kendo, kenjutsu, jujutsu, and other fighting sports.

Expanded and collected for the first time in a single volume, the six ninja books by this legendary ninjutsu master offer a comprehensive guide to this misunderstood martial art. Beginners will be introduced to the building blocks of ninjutsu: the basic postures, the natural elements that correspond with fighting techniques, the sorts of weapons utilized, and the “scheme of totality.” More advanced practitioners will benefit from descriptions of such principles as enlightened consciousness, the goton-po theory of escape and invisibility, and the union of body and weapon. Meditation exercises are included to strengthen the consciousness and decrease reaction time. Expanding upon his original writings, and interwoven with the wisdom and insight garnered from four decades of martial arts training, the author addresses misconceptions associated with ninjutsu and shares the story of his path to becoming an internationally recognized warrior and martial arts educator.

Ninjutsu: The Secret Art of the Ninja covers all aspects of this remarkable martial art, including the hidden details within the Ninjutsu forms. It reveals the secrets of how to develop power through body movement, how to effectively remove an opponent's balance, and how to unify the mind, the body and technique. The author's objective is to improve both the reader's mental and physical skills and to promote harmony between mind and body. A wide-ranging introduction covers the history of Ninjutsu and mental and physical attitude. The following chapters cover principles, fitness and stretching, postures, break falls, Sanshin No Kata, the Kihon Happo, basic and additional techniques, Sixteen Secret Fists, training pointers and advice, and pressure points.