“Heiho” - Strategy

From the website of the Genbukan Kageshin Dojo:

…Here are a few individual strategies I feel are important, the first is called Yo Nin No Jutsu, this is the ability to adapt to any changes in circumstances, and the ability to see and use correct opportunities at the exact proper moment. The skill to be able to adapt to anything is a great virtue, especially change, because things in life rarely stay the same. This takes a disciplined mind confident in himself, so if you train hard and correct, with persistence, you will have no problem with this. To judge correct opportunities you must be a student of the past, and have a wealth of information at your disposal, but the most valuable trait is without a doubt experience.

A big part of this Jutsu is being close enough to study and observe subjects without being seen, heard, or found by scouts. So you must be able to move freely and make maps of everything you feel is important, not only maps but schedules of movement, and a list of supplies. This use of surveillance is called (Kenbun No Hen). Another skill used is eavesdropping called (Kanken Ho Hen); these two make the heart of Yo Nin No Jutsu. The next major skill to develop is In Nin No Jutsu; this is the ability to secretly enter anywhere you need to be. This requires training in Henso Jutsu which is the art of disguise, giving you the ability to alter your appearance and personality. This is very useful when you wish to attract no or little attention to yourself.

The three main disguises were changing the appearance of the face, changing the appearance of the body, or looking like the opposite sex. These three techniques of Henso Jutsu where called the “Sanpo-Gata”. Also training in Ongyo-Jutsu, which is Disappearing Techniques using a system called Tenton-Chiton-Jinton Santan no Ho. This is 30 methods or opportunities for concealing movement. Tenton is using the elements of the heavens or sky, Chiton is using the elements of the earth, and Jinton is using people or animals, together with ten each combined, gives you almost magical results. A good working knowledge of lock picking and security systems is needed to be able enter places people don’t want you in. On top of everything you must train yourself in the art of stealth, commonly known as “Shinobi”. This is an inner feeling, and a way of thought. Much more then tip toeing acrossed the floor like a thief. You must develop an unbending will or immovable heart known as “Fudoshin”. Only through rigorous training can this be achieved, by pushing yourself to unknown limits and beyond, both physically and mentally. Shinobi training is one of the most important aspects in strategy. In one of the more famous ryu’s dealing with Shinobi was Togakure Ryu “The Hidden Door School”, and one of there sayings was to have the enemy feel you are far away, when in fact your laying next to there feet, invisible. This is the feeling of Shinobi.

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October 16^th, 2007 (add comment)