It is well known that the ninja were masters of disguise.  They used deception and all types of disguise to infiltrate the enemy and move freely among their troops.  They are said to have used poisons to swell their faces, or fasting to appear weak, and even fish scales as contact lens to feign disease!  The sense of smell is also important for good disguise and the ninja applied smells as well to perfect their disguises.  If you understand this, you will also gain insight into the ninja teaching of “display, show, express weakness, and turn it to strenght!”.  Although the ninja used many and all types of disguise,  they are known in Japan to have used frequently the following themes.  Buddhist Monk, Mountain Ascetic (yamabushi), Zen Priest, Street Performer, Comedic Actor, Merchant, and Farmer or Samurai.  As a street performer, the ninja was able to get close to people of all ages, from children to adults, without causing suspicion. They supported themselves in this way as they traveled the country gathering information. 

When I came to Japan, I never planned on becoming a street performer.  It just happened.  When I mentioned to my martial arts teacher what I was doing, he responded, “Of course! You are just following in the footsteps of your forefathers.  You must be a true ninja!”.  It is important to understand that I did not choose this path.  It was chosen for me, as your path is chosen for you.  As it is written in the Bu Jyu Hi (Secret of Martial Longevity and Prosperity) a very important document in Ninjutsu, “we are only to protect the way of our ancestors, swear devotion to sweeping wickedness from our hearts; in doing so, the true lightness of Divinity will forever protect us”.

To see a video clip of me and my partner, performing in Yokohama, visit my page on facebook, or click on the picture below.