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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Togakure-ryu Ninpo (Door-Hiding School), founded by Togakure Daisuke in 12th-century Iga Japan, is the iconic ninja koryu tradition preserved in Bujinkan. Its 5-license structure (Shoden to Menkyo Kaiden) evaluates unarmed Taijutsu, Shinobi-iri infiltration/stealth, Senban Shuriken throwing stars, Shinobi-zento short sword, and Metsubishi powders.

Shoden Densho (Basic Ninjutsu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Kamae stances, silent Shinobi-iri stealth movement, Ukemi, and strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Famous 12th-century Iga province Ninjutsu koryu school (34th Soke Masaaki Hatsumi).

Chuden Densho (Middle Transmission)

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Four-pointed Senban Shuriken star throwing, Shuko hand claws, & concealed draws.

Symbolism & Meaning

Unique weapon arsenal born in mountain hideouts of Togakushi ninjas.

Okuden Densho (Deep Secret Scroll)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Straight Shinobi Zaken sword combat, Shinodake underwater breathing, and escapes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Tonpo and Shinobi-jutsu tactical survival methods in hostile territory.

Menkyo (Teaching License / Shihan)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Mastery of complete Togakure-ryu Densho scrolls & Bujinkan dōjō leadership.

Symbolism & Meaning

Shihan = Licensed master and keeper of Masaaki Hatsumi's Ninja lineage.

Menkyo Kaiden (Full Transmission)

免許皆伝Rank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 120 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest koryu scroll. Awarding 34th Soke of Masaaki Hatsumi lineage.

Symbolism & Meaning

Menkyo Kaiden = 34th Soke and living head of ancient Togakure-ryu Ninpo.