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Jinichi KawakamiThe world's last ninja
Country:
 Japan |
Content:
- Biography of Jinichi Kawakami
- Living like a Ninja
- The Proven Ninja
- A Respected Figure
- A Ninja's Journey
- The Future of Ninjas
Biography of Jinichi Kawakami
Jinichi Kawakami, also known as the Last Ninja in the World, is a Japanese ninja who holds the official title of being the last true ninja in the world. He has successfully presented authentic documents to relevant organizations that prove his affiliation with the ancient and respected Koga clan. Kawakami was born into a family with a history dating back to the 16th century, although there is no detailed information about his ancestors.
Living like a Ninja
Kawakami lives his life according to the ancient laws of his ninja ancestors. He spends five hours each day training, honing his ninja techniques and traditions. His commitment to the ninja way goes beyond training. His home houses an impressive library dedicated to ninja topics, including ancient copies of Koga-ryu ninjutsu texts. He also possesses a true collection of ninja weapons that have been passed down through his family.
The Proven Ninja
For a long time, Kawakami kept his identity and lifestyle hidden from the public. However, in the 1990s, he decided to step out of the shadows and announced himself as the Last True Ninja. Many dismissed him as an imposter, as there have been numerous cases of individuals claiming to be ninjas. However, Kawakami was not all talk. He meticulously prepared documents and easily proved his affiliation with the ancient clan. He also demonstrated his mastery of ancient ninja weapons and the art of combat.
A Respected Figure
Currently, Jinichi Kawakami holds the position of the 21st head of the Koga-ryu Ninjutsu Banto and serves as the honorary director of the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum. In 2011, he was appointed as a professor at Mie University, where he has many students and followers. One notable student of Kawakami is Stephen Turnbull, a historian, researcher, and author of a popular book on ninjas. Another student he holds in high regard is Yasushi Kiyomoto.
A Ninja's Journey
Kawakami shares that he has lived his entire life as a ninja, even during his childhood when he never thought twice about it. He started training at the age of six, and although at times it seemed tedious and difficult, he had no other choice. Being a ninja required complete dedication and sacrifice. Today, Kawakami no longer thinks about whether being a ninja is difficult or easy; he simply lives as a ninja.
The Future of Ninjas
In 2012, at the age of over 60, Kawakami contemplated finding a successor. After much consideration, he decided against it. In an interview with the BBC, he stated, "In times of civil war or during the Edo period, the abilities of a ninja to spy, kill, and defend were necessary and useful. But now we have weapons, the internet, and medicine, so there is no place for ninjas in the modern world." Despite initial skepticism, those familiar with Jinichi Kawakami have no doubt that he is the real deal. His combat skills, knowledge of ancient arts, humility, wisdom, and scholarship all attest to his authenticity. He and his school have gained respect for their accurate preservation and practice of the ancient art of Koga-ryu ninjutsu. This sets Kawakami and his followers apart from many contemporary "masters" and "teachers" who exploit the ancient and respected art and philosophy. For now, Jinichi Kawakami is rightfully known as the Last Ninja in the World.
