When we hear the word “ninja,” an image of something mysterious and superhuman comes to mind.
One of their most famous techniques is the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu” or “Art of Transformation” technique.
This technique is famous for being an amazing technique to dodge an enemy’s attack and make it appear as if you have disappeared or moved to another location instantly.
In this issue, we will explore the secrets of this “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”!
What is the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”?
“Kawarimi-no-jutsu” is a ninja’s technique said to have been used to evade the attacks of the enemy.
Simply put, they use tree trunks, stones, and sometimes animals to attack instead of themselves, and then flee when the opportunity arises. This gave the illusion that it had “disappeared!
But in reality, this is just a legend or a story. It is almost impossible to reproduce this art in reality. Just, the wisdom and ingenuity that the ninja possessed has been beautified and passed on in this way.
How did they do it?
Historical records and folklore indicate that the following methods were used in “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu.
- Full use of the natural environment
The ninja used natural objects around them to confuse their enemies. For example, they would use tree trunks and stones to distract the enemy’s attention, allowing them to escape quickly. - Smoke and dust obstruct visibility
The use of smoke screens and dust to block the enemy’s view and escape between them is another well-known method. This technique could have been effective in practice. - The art of speed and timing
“Kawarimi-no-Jutsu” relied heavily on the ninja’s physical ability and good timing. If they could move quickly and deceive the enemy’s eyes, they could create the illusion that they had disappeared.
Did ninja attire also play a role in the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”?
Although most people think of the black costume of the ninja, in reality, they often change their attire depending on the occasion.
- Disguised as farmers or merchants: They dressed inconspicuously to deceive the eyes of their enemies.
- Black clothing in covert action at night: They increased their success rate in hiding by wearing black clothing, which is less visible in the moonlight.
We could say that their clothing was part of the “change”.
A Scientific Look at “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”
From a modern perspective, it seems that the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu” was not magical, but a combination of physical devices and psychological tricks.
- Distract the enemy’s attention
The ninja had a technique of using sound or moving objects to direct the enemy’s gaze in a particular direction. This is a method that is still used today in magic and military tactics. - Utilizing illusions
The human eye and brain are prone to illusion. The technique of using smoke, mirrors, and reflections of light to “make things that are not there appear to be there” is truly a ninja’s specialty. - Psychological sway
By startling or confusing the enemy, it robs him of his ability to make calm decisions. Exploiting this psychological opening was also part of “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”.
Combination with other ninjutsu
It is likely that the “transformative arts” will be even more effective not only when used alone, but also when combined with other ninjutsu, such as those listed below.
- The art of hiding(Kakuremi-no-Jutsu): A technique to hide in the grass or the shadows. It is very effective when used immediately after the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu” technique!
- The art of doppelganger(Bunshin-no-Jutsu: The trick is to use puppets and shadows to create the illusion of being in more than one place. Confuse the enemy even more with this!
Ninja wisdom that can be applied even today
Kawarimi-no-Jutsu continues to inspire me in many ways.
- Ninja in entertainment works
In movies and animations, the art of shapeshifting is often depicted as a typical ninja technique. Combined with visual effects, its appeal is further enhanced. - Ideas for self-defense and survival
Modern survival and crime prevention techniques also incorporate the idea of “Kawarimi-no-jutsu”. Methods of distracting the enemy and hiding quickly are still useful today. - Psychology and business strategy
The concept of reading an opponent’s mind or intentionally causing confusion is also applied in business and sports. It is often helpful as a strategy for outwitting competitors and as a hint for flexible responses.
Imagine how to train in the “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu”
The ninja’s “Kawarimi-no-Jutsu” is not just a legendary skill, but also provides hints for our daily lives.
- Flexible response to situations: The skill to instantly assess the environment and change behavior, like a ninja, will be very useful in business and human relations.
- The ability to read the minds of others: Thinking from the other party’s point of view is the secret to smooth negotiation and communication.
What you can learn from this art is the power to overcome any difficulty with ingenuity and ingenuity. This art of deceiving the enemy and protecting oneself. The ingenuity and effort behind it are worth learning even today!
If we face our daily problems with a flexible mindset like ninjas, we may find new solutions!