What Are the Fundamental Principles of Togakure-ryu Ninpo ?
Togakure-ryu Ninpo (戸隠流忍法), founded over 900 years ago by Daisuke Nishina, is one of the oldest and most respected schools of ninjutsu. This school transcends simple martial techniques, offering a comprehensive approach that emphasizes the development of the body, mind, and spirit. The ninjas of Togakure-ryu were survival masters, capable of adapting to any situation. Below are the fundamental principles that define this ancient art.
1. Ninpo (忍法): The Art of Survival
Ninpo is the very essence of Togakure-ryu. It represents not only the techniques of the ninja but also a philosophy of life centered on endurance, resilience, and adaptability. In a dangerous and unpredictable world, the ninja must exercise self-control, mental flexibility, and full mastery of their body to survive. Ninpo teaches the ability to adapt to any environment, whether in nature or in combat, to turn every situation to their advantage.
2. Happo Biken (八法秘剣): The Eight Secret Rules of the Sword
Unlike the Iga and Koga schools, which teach the Hachimon (八門) or eight disciplines, the Togakure-ryu focuses on Happo Biken (八法秘剣), meaning "the eight secret rules of the sword." This concept covers not only sword techniques (Daito, long sword, and Kodachi, short
sword) but also other survival skills such as:
Gunryaku (軍略): Military strategy.
Tenmon (天文): Observation and understanding of celestial phenomena.
Chimon (地文): Study of geography and earthly environments.
Shurikenjutsu (手裏剣術): The art of throwing shurikens.
Senbannage-jutsu (千羽投げ術): Techniques for throwing lightweight objects like needles.
Tonpo (遁法): Techniques of evasion and concealment.
Bo-jutsu (棒術) and Jō-jutsu (杖術): Mastery of long and short staffs.
Naginatajutsu (薙刀術): Use of the naginata (halberd).
Rokushakubo-jutsu (六尺棒術): Use of the six-foot staff.
Sojutsu (槍術): Spear techniques.
Kisha-jutsu (騎射術): Horseback archery.
These disciplines equip the ninja with a wide range of skills to survive and fight in various environments.
3. Seishin Teki Kyoyo (精神的教養): Spiritual Education
Seishin Teki Kyoyo, or spiritual development, plays a crucial role in Togakure-ryu. A ninja must not only be physically strong but also mentally resilient. The character Nin (忍), composed of "blade" (刃) and "heart" (心), symbolizes the ability to endure pain and hardship while maintaining composure. Ninjas are expected to hide their suffering and remain focused on their mission. This principle teaches mental endurance and self-discipline, essential for overcoming challenges.
4. Shin Gi Tai Ichi (心技体一): The Unity of Mind, Technique, and Body
Togakure-ryu emphasizes the harmony between the mind (Shin), technique (Gi), and body (Tai). This concept, known as Shin Gi Tai Ichi, signifies that the unity of these three elements is essential for mastering ninjutsu. A ninja must learn to control their thoughts, execute their techniques with precision, and maintain their physical condition to be effective in any situation. This balance allows the ninja to respond quickly and appropriately in dangerous moments.
5. In-Nin and Yo-Nin (陰忍・陽忍): The Two Forms of Stealth
The ninjas of Togakure-ryu use two forms of stealth:
In-Nin (陰忍): Hidden stealth, where the ninja completely blends into their environment.
Yo-Nin (陽忍): Visible stealth, where the ninja deceives their enemy by acting openly but under disguise or false identity.
These techniques allow the ninja to operate effectively in any situation, whether for espionage, infiltration, or avoiding danger.
6. Kyojitsu Tenkan Hō (虚実転換法): The Art of Illusion and Reality
Kyojitsu Tenkan Ho is the art of switching between illusion and reality. A Togakure-ryu ninja must be able to manipulate the perceptions of their opponent, creating distractions or false appearances to gain a strategic advantage. This technique is used to confuse the enemy and protect the ninja in perilous situations.
7. Intonjutsu (隠遁術): The Art of Escape
Togakure-ryu places great importance on Intonjutsu, the art of concealment and escape. Unlike other martial arts that prioritize direct confrontation, Togakure-ryu teaches that the best strategy is sometimes to disappear, avoid combat, or hide to survive and complete the mission. The ninja uses the environment to their advantage to escape from enemies.
8. Senban Shuriken and Ninja Equipment
The ninjas of Togakure-ryu used specialized equipment, including the Senban Shuriken, a square four-bladed throwing star. This shuriken was designed to be both a weapon and a versatile tool, reflecting the idea that every piece of ninja equipment should serve multiple functions. Ninjas also used Shuko (climbing claws) to scale walls or for defensive purposes in combat.
9. The Influence of Mikkyo and Kuji-in
Togakure-ryu is deeply influenced by Mikkyo, a form of esoteric Buddhism, and the practice of Kuji-in (九字印), nine symbolic gestures and mantras. These spiritual practices help strengthen the ninja’s mind, enhance self-control, and improve focus in extreme situations.
Conclusion
Togakure-ryu Ninpo is a complete martial art that combines sophisticated martial techniques, deep spiritual philosophy, and a unique approach to survival and adaptability. Mastery of the balance between body and mind, the art of stealth, and the manipulation of illusion and reality lie at the core of this traditional martial art.
These fundamental principles are taught and demonstrated in my YouTube videos on my channel dedicated to Togakure-ryu Ninpo. I hold classes every Sunday from 10 a.m. in the cherry blossom forest, "桜の森." You can join me, Jerome Pailliette, instructor and head of 忍術京都道場, to discover and deepen your understanding of these ancient techniques adapted for the modern world.
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