Customer Reviews (6)

Perfect for Bujinkan students and other styles as well
This book offer's lots of advice on life and insights to training. It's an important addition to any warrior's library.

A Real Gem
If you train in the Bujinkan, or the martial arts this is a book that will grow with your training as you do. So many times I've just opened it and started reading from any point and there is always something new, another layer to look at what sensei is saying.

A great Bujinkan find
I have owned Ninpo: Wisdom for Life for a few years and think it is one of my favorite ninja books. Having read all of the English books by Masaaki Hatsumi, I can tell you that this book is page after page of martial arts philosophy! It is great to read about the philosophy behind the art of ninjutsu and having it from the source is excellent. When reading the book I feel like I am reading a Densho [traditional scrool].

Inside the Mind of a Ninja
Any translation issues aside, this English version of Hiden Togakure Ryu Ninpo is a profound and useful text for a student of the Bujinkan arts.

There have been many books in which Hatsumi sensei is interviewed about or writes regarding the martial arts, but in Ninpo: Wisdom for Life, the number of topics discussed is overwhelming! From diet to personal relationships, the Grandmaster reveals his unique thoughts and views on them all. In addition to philosophy, there are many references to and descriptions of techniques and methods of taijutsu and ninpo.

When in doubt, go to the source.
Translating is a difficult task. It's not easy to capture the nuances from one language and be able to offer the same sense in another. It goes without saying that a complete translation implies an understanding of the topic material FROM WITHIN and for those who train with Hatsumi-sensei, the difficulties in actually 'being within' ought to be well known. Basically, sensei can be notoriously difficult to translate.

I am currently translating the original into English as part of my own personal study and while difficult, I have been surprised to find that there are some quite glaring mistakes in the translation. I'm not refering to syntax or anything like that. Each translator has their way of capturing the style of the original and I guess that's fine. What I am refering to is that in the English translation, the meaning in a number of passages is quite the OPPOSITE OF WHAT IS WRITTEN IN THE ORIGINAL JAPANESE. This is quite a serious flaw and in my opinion, stems from a lack of understanding of the 'sense' of what Hatsumi-sensei is actually writing about.

For sure, students of the Bujinkan will, and ought to, obtain a copy of this book. Serious students however, will understand the necessity of reading between the lines and of following Hatsumi-sensei's advice and 'converse with the book'. Given the kind of errors in the translation, this is a must. ... Read more

Book Description
When speaking of Ninja, the image of a black clad assassin disappearing in a cloud of smoke is often what comes to mind. This distortion has nothing to do with the reality of Ninpo. A ninja possesses a compassionate heart and pursues peace and harmony. This attitude is called the spirit Ninniku. Although the term Ninpo Bugei is know throughout the world, very few know its true significant. Within Ninpo lies eternal truth. Ninpo is the highest self-defense of mind body and heart. Through these martial arts, a Ninja hears what is silent, sees what is invisible, and endures what is excruciating. The true mission of the Ninja is to deliver light to a dark world through perseverance. Soke Shoto Tanemura firmly believes that Ninpo Bugei has truly come of age. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The Heart of Ninpo, as with the blade of a sword, should be kept sharp and cold to keep enemies on constant alert.
Ninpo Secrets (Hiden Ninpo) is published by the Genbukan World Ninpo Bugei Federation (www.genbukan.org) and provides an excellent overview of Ninpo as it compares to Ninjutsu.

The book is divided into five major sections, each of which provides a great deal of information about the Ninpo way of life:
Part 1 - What Is Ninpo?
Part 2 - Ninpo Philosophy
Part 3 - Ninpo History
Part 4 - Ninpo Techniques
Part 5 - Others (i.e. Glossary, Bibliography, Genealogy of Ninpo)

Shoto Tanemura explains that the enlightened warrior (Shinobi) will not be content with just a way (do).The enlightened warrior's goal is to understand the eternal truth, to live within natural laws, and to fully develop martial techniques.This art should not be called "Nindo" or "Ninjutsu," but instead its spiritually significant name, "Ninpo" should be used.

We read of the `Ninja Spirit' and how it was referred to in ancient texts.In "Bansenshukai" we read:"When entering an enemy camp on a dangerous mission, your heart must be a hard, cold, and sharp as the blade of a sword.If the heart is soft and weak, whenever an enemy confronts you, panic results and the mission fails.If the heart is unstable, the enemy will be able to see this hesitancy easily.This situation will not only cost your life, but will also endanger your leader, or for that matter, your country.A practitioner of Ninpo needs to have the type of heart that when touched can cut, and as with the blade of a sword, it should always be kept free from impurities, sharp, and cold to keep enemies on constant alert."

A very detailed history of Ninpo is offered from the Nara Period, the Heian and Kamakura Periods, through the Warring Period, through the Edo Period the Meiji Period and into modern day.Within this history we see how Ninpo relates to Shugendo, and we are given a brief history of the Iga-Ryu and Koga-Ryu.

The Ninpo Techniques section of this book is heavily illustrated with photographs demonstrating Ninpo Taijutsu as well as weapons techniques such as hanbo-jutsu, biken-jutsu and shuriken-jutsu.

We are also introduced to techniques such as kiai-jutsu (power yelling for breaking an attacker's spirit), jumon and ketsuin (incantation and finger entwining), gofo (talisman) and ho-jutsu (illusion techniques).

Finally we are given a detained glossary and charts showing the genealogy of the Ninpo Martial Arts.

Ninpo Secrets is an essential book for any practitioner of Ninpo or student of ninjutsu.The detail, depth, and accuracy of this book is simply outstanding.

Only book you Need
I have been a student of Ninpo since 1985.I have many books on martial arts of many systems and styles.To include dozens of books on Ninjutsu.Ninpo Secrets is the best book on Ninpo/Ninjutsu written in english.It's that simple.It is written from the side of history not personal opinion.The book covers a complete historical background of Ninjutsu from the early beginnings to it's modern legacy.To be a student on Ninjutsu you must understand what ninjutsu is.This complex detailed book will give you a total look into this very rare and somewhat secretive world.It will dismantle all the myths and illusions and bring to light the truth.Any student of Japanese martial arts or spiritual training must have this book.It is a source book that will never age and it will be a companion to your training for life.At one point in time many people died to keep this information hidden, buy it while you can.

Best book on ninpo.
In my opinion, this is the best book on ninpo ever.It tells you many techniques,and there is pictures to make it easier to understand.It also tells you the history and philosophy of ninpo.Good job Mr. Tanemura. ... Read more

Book Description
This book offers a unique and comprehensive approach to learning the art of the ninja.This book is appropriate for new and experienced Ninjutsu practitioners, alike.Serious students who want to move beyond the ninja myths to practical application of the art will also benefit from reading this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

An excellent overview
Mr. Hoban is a man who knows what he's talking about.If you can get this book, do so, then seek further.

Passionate Exposition of Hoban's Beliefs & Some Training
This book is truly a rare read.I've been looking to purchase it (at a reasonable price) for some time now, and I finally found a copy.But I must say that the anticipation of the reading experience was greater than the actual reading experience itself.

The majority of the book is dedicated to Jack Hoban's personal take on the state of affairs present in the late 80's, when this book was written.In fact, very little of the first two-thirds of the book has anything to do with the history, philosophy, or ethics of the ancient ninja ... or even the current Bujinkan organization as a whole.

Hoban briefly mentions the history of the ninja, which includes how their way of life compared to the rest of Japanese society.And the last one-third of the book, concerning the physical aspects of warriorship, is really one of the best explanations of taijutsu written (which is why I give the book 3 stars). But the rest of the book contains Hoban's take on our free-market society, laissez-faire, democracy, the impending doom of our society if government is allowed to attain more control of our lives, the role that government should play in regards to a free society, and a lot of other conservative political ideals.

Don't get me wrong. It's not that I don't agree with Jack Hoban's ideas, but that's not what I bought the book for, and that's not what the title suggests.I could've bought a Rush Limbaugh book and a Hatsumi Sensei book for what I paid for this book and would've gotten what I was expecting.

But, I now own the book.And if our free-market society persists, perhaps in a few decades, I can sell it for a large profit. :)

A must for training in Budo Taijutsu (Ninjutsu)
I train with Jack Hoban and he brings a fresh approach to martial arts training.Through his book he outlines a practical and down-to-earth approach to training. Jack talks about nutrition, smart training and alsodemonstrates in pictorial form the Kihon Happo.Training with Jack is anexperience and through this book one gets a glimpse of what he feels isimportant in the training.

An excellent description of authentic ninja philosophy.
I am currently a student of the Bujinkan (the organization with which the author is affiliated), and this book was my first look at the philosophy put forth in ninjutsu.As opposed to the "icy black hand of cruel death" nonsense found in many publications and movies, Ninpo presents genuine ninja ethics, which are based on the principle that the warrior is motivated by love and a desire to protect life (especially the lives of loved ones). Jack's book presents a philosophy of life which everyone interested in warrior ethics, or simply in the mysterious art of being a good person, should read. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An Excellent Read.
This book is an excellent, educational resource for those interested in an insightful but easily understood look at the practice and history behind the world of the ninja.The book's numerous photographs are especially useful for those looking to learn the fine art of ninjutsu, however the book is much more than a how-to guide.The author skillfully presents to his reader a comprehensive view of not only ninjutsu's physical practices, but also the mental powers required of its practitioners.This book, in short, comes with my highest recommendation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Stepping out into the world
Soke begins this book with gratitude and a sense of sublime respect towards his own teacher, Takamatsu-sensei, and he ends it with the same. In between, we catch a glimpse of Hatsumi-sensei exploring the secrets of his martial art through the printed word and in his own words "...to bare and show budo to the world and in becoming bare finding the resolve to face death."

A book of this nature is very much open to criticisms from those who look for packaged and easily discernible logic. Is this part and parcel of Soke's decision to 'become bare'? Like Soke's recent works, many of the photographs are out of order or come from differing photography sessions. The number of techniques in this book are legion but it is the sense behind each photograph that reveals the nature of what is being presented. Forget about the more common 'one-two-three' approach and absorb the confusion that is part and parcel of Soke's art. After all, it is in this confusion that the value of the written material can be found.

If you are able to read the original Japanese, more power to you. Unfortunately, the English tanslation that accompanies the copy that I have is rather poor but there is more than enough for the discerning reader to grasp, if they have the wherewithal to do so.

The stories and anecdotes that dot this book are quite literally martial treasures but for those weaned on 1970s pop-kung fu mysticsm, the value of these lessons in printed form may not be recognised for what they are and subsequently go unnoticed. This would be a shame really as they contain the correct attitude with which to understand the techniques and movements presented.

Soke began this book with respect towards his teacher and ended it with the same. It would be a good thing indeed if people reading this book could absorb some of this sense and to recognise it's value in understanding the Bujinkan arts. ... Read more

Book Description
Gain insite in the mystical art of Ninpo as Renshi Allie Alberigo shares some of his knowledge earned through 33 years as a Martial Artist. An essential item for any serious martial artist with information beneficial to any student's training. Not limited to just the art of Ninjutsu, this book helps you form and understand the basics of martial arts as well as life, with such subjects as goal setting, preventing burn out and how to properly cope with injuries. Use this book to take your first step into Martial Arts Excellence! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

The Beginners Guide to Ninpo
I have been studying the art of Ninjutsu for many years now.Mostly within the Bujinkan system.It seems that no new books have been written on the topic recently. It is refreshing to have read a new book on the subject.I enjoyed it. Plus, it is great to read the interviews with Tanemura Soke. It had a new slant and was a motivational book as well. I liked it.I am utilizing many of the goal setting aspects from the book in my normal everyday life.

Vance Delington
Tuscon, AZ.

beginners guide to Ninpo
I read the book.It was not what I thought it would be.I read many books on the art before written by Stephen K. Hayes as well as Hatsumi Masaki. They were all about the technique, the physical side.I really was looking for a book that taught me more of that.

After reading this books I realized that the author wrote this for the student that is already in a school.It was geared toward someone who was interested in all the things mentally and spiritually that goes along with the art.Although it has a great interview with Grandmaster Shoto Tanemura and has different chapters on the history and protocol.I was delighted to find things on goal setting, dealing with injuries as well as coping with burnout.I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to be motivated. Most of all I recommend it to the serious Ninpo enthusiast and beginner alike.

Thanks.
W. Remington

Interesting, but what are you looking for?
Well, I bought this book looking for research on whether I wanted to learn Ninpo or not, but the book is mostly motivation.Don't get me wrong--the book is enjoyable, but it lacks in Ninpo content.I WARN YOU: If you cannot stand typos, do not get this book.It has typos left and right, just like my review.);)

A Must Have For Any Serious Martial Artist
This is a great book for all martial artists, not just Ninpo practitioners. Renshi Alberigo talks about Martial Arts traditions, proper protocall, how to avoid burn out, and the warrior attitude. There are many valuable lessons in this book. Whatever style of Martial Arts you practice you can use the concepts and philosophies in this book to enhance your training and become the best Martial Artist you can be!

Not just for Martial Arts but for life
I started to read this book thinking it would be like all the other "beginners" books you find with kata charts and discriptions of technique. What I found was a lot more valuable. Renshi Allie Alberigo shows a refreshing humility and shares advise on many subjects that I found adaptable to life in general including his chapter on goal setting, quiting/burn out and his over all philosophy on life. ... Read more

Book Description
Although the term Ninpo Bugei is know throughout the world, very few know its true significant. Within Ninpo lies eternal truth. Ninpo is the highest self-defense of mind body and heart. This Fundamental textbook, loaded with the Genbukan Ninpo Bugei curriculum from 1st Kyu level to Shodan Black Belt Level. Filled with history and protocol, as well as ranking breakdowns and testing. If your looking for the real deal this book is it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Genbukan Hanbook
Though this review will be read long after the events that have incited me to write it, at present (the time of my writing) there is only copy of this book being offered.The seller is "rare_esoteric_books" and their offering Ninpo Bugei Vol. 1 for $350.I sure if the true modern Iga shinobi warrior feels the "calling" from ancient ancestors, s/he will find a way to fit this bill.On the other hand, for someone like me, with a grip on reality and limited funds, this is mildly outrageous.

[...]

Gold
This book is thorough, accurate, and is loaded with clear-cut information.I am studying under the Bushi Shinden Ryu system right now and this book is a pot of gold.It's easy to understand and has spectacular organization.
It is organized by rank, with sections on Ninja perspectives, history on Ninpo, and more.
Anyone studying Jujitsu (specifically, though there are other systems in here) or Ninutsu in general will get a lot out of this.It has many picture references and doesn't leave anything out.
The bulk of the book is going through the techniques, though there are pages dedicated to pressure points and ranking structures also (and of course, the history stated above).

Great techniques and history
The nº 1 book for the serious student of traditional ninpo techniques. The pictures give you a clear idea of the technique and in combination with the explanation it is not to difficult to learn them.
This book is a great help for all students intrested in effective techniques and correct ninpo history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great book on the basics
This book is a basic review of the kihon happo and add some weapons towards the end including hanbo and sword.People who are looking for information on the Bujinkan Martial Arts as taught by Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi will really appreciate this book.Mr. Munthe does a good job of presenting some information usually left out of your average book on this subject.Many pictures show real Budo Taijutsu/Ninjutsu Techniques.Hopefully this book will be back in print some day. ... Read more