Ninjutsu, a conventional Japanese martial art and strategic framework, had its inception predominantly as the martial art practiced by the ninja, who were mercenaries or clandestine agents of feudal Japan renowned for their guerrilla warfare tactics, sabotage, infiltration, and espionage. It includes survival skills, unarmed combat, armed combat, deception, camouflage, and espionage, among other abilities and methodologies.

Throughout history, ninjutsu evolved in tandem with samurai martial arts like jujutsu (unarmed combat) and kenjutsu (swordsmanship). However, ninjutsu placed greater emphasis on unconventional warfare and strategies that were better adapted for clandestine operations and espionage.

Ninjutsu encompasses a wide range of techniques, including grappling, weapons training (including swords, staffs, and shuriken), joint locks, and throws, as well as specialized proficiencies such as disguise, infiltration, and escape. As a result of its historical development, ningjutsu is currently instructed in numerous schools (ryuha) using a variety of methodologies and interpretations.

While some modern institutions place greater emphasis on historical and cultural aspects, others prioritize practical self-defense or sports-related elements. Notably, modern ninjutsu schools may differ in their historical accuracy and veracity, as the secrecy surrounding the true practices of the historical ninja has contributed to the art's susceptibility to fiction and conjecture.

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