Ninjas and their weapons - the secret warriors of ancient Japan

Ninjas are among the most fascinating figures in Japanese history. In contrast to the honourable samurai, who lived by a strict code of honour, shinobi (as they were called in Japan) were shadow warriors who operated with cunning, stealth and a variety of secret weapons. They were used as spies, assassins and scouts and mastered numerous fighting techniques that still enjoy legendary status today.

The art of ninjutsu - more than just fighting

The ninjas were not only warriors, but also masters of deception and disguise. They used techniques such as disguise, psychological warfare and even chemistry to deceive their opponents. Ninjutsu, the martial art of the shinobi, involved not only unarmed combat, but also specialised weapons that were perfect for secret missions.

The legendary ninjato - the weapon of shadows

One of the best-known ninja weapons is the ninjato, a straight, often shorter sword that was specially developed for quick use in confined spaces. In contrast to the elegant katana of the samurai, the ninjato was functional, easy to draw and ideal for surprise attacks. Many modern depictions show ninjas wielding this weapon, although historical evidence of its exact form is limited.

Shuriken - The deadly throwing stars

Probably the most famous ninja weapon is the shuriken. These small, sharp projectiles could injure or distract opponents or serve as a poison carrier. Ninjas not only used them in combat, but also for sabotage by lacing them with poisons or burning substances. Their compact size made them ideal for concealed transport.

Kusarigama - The deadly chain with sickle

One of the ninja' s most unusual weapons was the kusarigama, a combination of a sickle and a chain with a weight at the end. With this versatile weapon, they could keep opponents at a distance, disarm them or tie them up. However, this technique required enormous skill and precision.

Kunai - More than just a dagger

The kunai was a simple but effective tool that was used as a melee weapon as well as a climbing aid or crowbar. Ninjas used it to pull themselves up walls, break down doors or eliminate opponents in a quick attack. Many modern depictions show the kunai as a throwing weapon, but this is more of a pop culture invention.

Smoke bombs - perfect escape weapons

Ninjas often had to disappear quickly. Smoke bombs were therefore an essential part of their equipment. Using a mixture of special powders and chemicals, they could create thick smoke to confuse opponents and retreat unseen. Some smoke bombs even contained blinding or irritating substances.

Tetsubishi - the spiky trap

Another clever tool was the tetsubishi, small pointed metal spikes that were scattered on the ground to slow down pursuers. These early versions of nail traps could injure foot soldiers or horses and gave the ninjas time to escape.

Secret poisons and tricks

In addition to physical weapons, ninjas also used poisons to silently eliminate their opponents. They experimented with plant poisons, snake veins and other deadly substances. Sometimes they soaked their blades, shuriken or arrows in poison to make even small wounds fatal.

The legend lives on

Although the time of the historical ninjas is long gone, they still fascinate people. Their fighting techniques, weapons and strategies live on in films, books and video games. In modern martial arts in particular, many of their methods have survived and continue to inspire fighters worldwide.