SHONINKI 正忍記

The Shoninki was written in 1682 by Natori Masazumi, and consists of three volumes. The Shoninki is a text of Kishu-ryu ninjutsu, and it is said that Iga warriors who escaped the Iga region after their defeat in the Tensho War, established this ninjutsu tradition. Although it seems that Kishu-ryu branched from Iga-ryu, there are fundamental differences that create a clear distinction between these traditions. In any case, the text itself covers a number of subjects, from strategy to infiltration, but not specific fighting techniques. Although the text is not very long, it reflects a certain way of thinking about ninjutsu, which is most interesting to anyone who wishes to learn more than just techniques. It is also important to keep in mind that the text was written for a selected contemporary audience. Without commentary and interpretation of the text, much would be lost. Therefore, commentary follows the translation in each page.