131 Hopeful Ninja Face the Koka-Ryu Test

PUBLISHED 31 JUL 2026

Aspiring Ninja Put Their Skills to the Test at Koka-Ryu Certification Exam

More than 130 candidates from Japan and overseas travelled to the birthplace of the Koka ninja to earn an official ninja certification.

A total of 131 aspiring ninja gathered in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, on 14 June to take part in this year's Koka-ryu Ninja Certification exam, testing their knowledge of ninja history, practical skills and dedication to one of Japan's most famous martial traditions.

Now in its 18th year, the certification is organised by the Koka Ninja Research Association and is divided into three levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Participants tackled written examinations covering Koka ninja history and traditions, while beginner-level candidates were also assessed on their shuriken throwing skills and even received bonus points for wearing authentic ninja attire.

This year's event attracted enthusiasts from across Japan as well as overseas, with participants travelling from Singapore and Hong Kong to take part. Candidates ranged in age from just nine years old to 76, highlighting the enduring appeal of ninja culture across generations.

The beginner examination attracted 93 candidates, with a pass rate of 90 percent. Twenty-eight participants took the intermediate test, where success required a deeper understanding of Koka-ryu history and traditions, while 10 candidates attempted the advanced level. Alongside a challenging written examination, advanced applicants were also required to submit a written report, although the organisers have kept the exact submission process a closely guarded secret.

Koka, historically known as Koga, is regarded as one of the birthplaces of ninjutsu, where the famous Koga warriors developed many of the espionage and intelligence-gathering techniques associated with Japan's legendary shadow warriors. Through events such as the annual certification, the Koka Ninja Research Association hopes to preserve and promote this important part of Japan's martial heritage.

With pass rates of 90 percent for beginners, 70 percent for intermediate candidates and 55 percent for those attempting the advanced qualification, another group of successful candidates can now proudly add an official ninja certification to their achievements.

Source: Japan Today.