Image reproduced from TVBS 新聞網

Today (15th), the 17th Kōka Ninja Certification was held in Kōka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, attracting 130 ninja culture enthusiasts from across the country, ranging in age from 9 to 80. The event tested participants' understanding of ninja history and skills through a written exam and hands-on practice, including shuriken throwing.

According to Japanese media reports, the certification was divided into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. All participants were required to complete a written exam about ninja history, culture, and the names of various ninjutsu. For those at the beginner level, additional points could be earned by dressing in ninja attire and successfully throwing shurikens.

One participant from Okayama City expressed amazement at the vibrant atmosphere, noting that many attendees had dressed up as ninjas, which opened his eyes to the effort put into the event. He mentioned that while some questions were new to him, he remained confident about passing the certification.

Another participant from Tokyo admitted that other entrants had prepared more seriously than he had expected, which he found impressive, although he lacked confidence due to insufficient revision.

In addition to the written test, the practical component involving shuriken throwing left a strong impression on many participants. A participant from Urayasu City in Chiba Prefecture expressed that there was a significant difference in his performance compared to his practice sessions, and he was unable to achieve the desired results. Another participant from Nagoya mentioned that he scored no points at all and realized that shurikens were heavier than he had anticipated, but overall, he found the experience to be very enjoyable.

The organizers stated that the purpose of the certification is to allow the public to learn about the history and culture of ninjas, thereby deepening their understanding of Kōka City. Those who pass the certification will receive a certificate in the form of a scroll during a ceremony, officially becoming 'Kōka Ninjas.'