The Most Famous Ninja, Ranked

Choose the ninja you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 18, 2024 07:44
The allure of ninjas, with their stealth and mystery, has always been a captivating subject. However, as more figures enter the public eye, it becomes increasingly challenging to sift through who really stands out in this secretive profession. Thus, compiling a list of the most notable ninjas allows fans and enthusiasts to better understand these enigmatic figures. By participating in this ongoing vote, you contribute to a broader appreciation of ninja history and their unique skills. Each vote helps to adjust the rankings, ensuring that the list accurately reflects current public opinion and knowledge. Engage with fellow ninja enthusiasts and help shape the definitive list of renowned ninjas.

Who Is the Most Famous Ninja?

  1. 1
    54
    points
    Hattori Hanzo

    Hattori Hanzo

    A famous samurai and ninja of the Sengoku era, credited with saving the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu and later assisting him to become the ruler of united Japan.
    • Era: Sengoku period
    • Skillset: Espionage, tactics, and guerrilla warfare
  2. 2
    12
    points

    Sarutobi Sasuke

    A legendary ninja featured in Japanese children's stories from the early 20th century, known for his adventures and loyalty.
    • Origin: Japanese folklore
    • Characteristic: Loyalty and adventures
  3. 3
    0
    points

    Jinichi Kawakami

    Considered by some as the last real ninja, Kawakami is the head of the Banke Shinobinoden, claiming to be the 21st head of the Koga Ninja.
    • Title: Last real ninja
    • School: Banke Shinobinoden
  4. 4
    0
    points

    Takamatsu Toshitsugu

    A martial artist considered to be one of the last shinobi, he played a crucial role in the survival of ninjutsu into the modern era.
    • Contribution: Survival of ninjutsu
    • Era: Modern era
  5. 5
    0
    points
    Ishikawa Goemon

    Ishikawa Goemon

    A legendary Japanese outlaw hero who stole gold and other valuables to give to the poor. His escapades have made him a popular figure in Japanese folklore.
    • Legend: Robin Hood of Japan
    • Execution: Boiled alive
  6. 6
    0
    points

    Kirigakure Saizo

    Another figure from Japanese folklore, often depicted as a ninja in the service of Sanada Yukimura, known for his stealth and bravery.
    • Allegiance: Sanada Yukimura
    • Traits: Stealth and bravery
  7. 7
    0
    points

    Fujibayashi Nagato

    A prominent figure in the history of ninjutsu, believed to have been one of the founders of the Iga Ninja and author of the Bansenshukai.
    • Contribution: Authoring the Bansenshukai
    • Legacy: Founding the Iga Ninja
  8. 8
    0
    points

    Momochi Sandayu

    One of the leading figures of the Iga Ninja clans during the Sengoku period, known for his expertise in ninjutsu and guerrilla warfare.
    • Role: Leader of Iga Ninja
    • Expertise: Ninjutsu and guerrilla warfare
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Mochizuki Chiyome

    Mochizuki Chiyome

    A noblewoman who is believed to have created a school for girls, which was actually a cover for training them as kunoichi (female ninjas) during the Sengoku period.
    • Innovation: School for kunoichi
    • Period: Sengoku period
  10. 10
    0
    points
    Fuma Kotaro

    Fuma Kotaro

    The leader of the Fuma clan during the Warring States period, known for his use of guerrilla tactics and psychological warfare against opponents.
    • Clan: Fuma
    • Tactics: Guerrilla warfare and psychological warfare

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous ninja. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Ninja is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 3326 views
  • 66 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Ninja once every 24 hours. The rank of each Ninja is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Famous Ninja

Hattori Hanzo
Rank #1 for the most famous ninja: Hattori Hanzo (Source)
Ninjas, also known as shinobi, have fascinated people for centuries. Their origins trace back to ancient Japan, where they served as spies, scouts, and assassins. These covert agents played key roles in the feudal era, working in the shadows to gather intelligence and carry out secret missions.

Ninjas were skilled in various martial arts. They trained in stealth, disguise, and survival techniques. Their expertise allowed them to move silently, blend into crowds, and disappear without a trace. They used a range of weapons, including swords, throwing stars, and smoke bombs. These tools helped them complete their tasks with precision and efficiency.

The training of a ninja began at a young age. They learned to endure harsh conditions and develop physical and mental strength. Discipline and patience were core values in their education. This rigorous training ensured they could handle any situation they encountered.

Ninjas often wore dark clothing to blend into the night. This attire included a hood and mask to conceal their identity. Their clothing was practical, allowing for ease of movement and carrying of weapons. This iconic look has become a symbol of their mysterious and elusive nature.

The role of ninjas extended beyond combat. They gathered information, spread disinformation, and created confusion among enemies. Their intelligence-gathering skills were crucial in times of war. They often infiltrated enemy lines, posing as farmers, merchants, or monks to collect valuable data.

Ninjas operated in small groups or alone. They relied on their wits and skills rather than brute force. This approach made them effective in their missions and allowed them to achieve their goals without drawing attention.

The legacy of ninjas has inspired countless stories, films, and books. They are often depicted as superhuman warriors with extraordinary abilities. While these portrayals are exaggerated, they highlight the enduring appeal of the ninja mystique.

In reality, ninjas were highly trained individuals who used their skills for strategic purposes. Their contributions to warfare and espionage were significant. They played a vital role in shaping the history of Japan, though much of their true history remains shrouded in mystery.

Today, the image of the ninja continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Their blend of skill, secrecy, and strategy makes them intriguing figures in popular culture. While the era of the ninja has passed, their legend lives on, reminding us of a time when shadows held great power.

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