Product Description
Now you can unlock the ancient secrets of Ninja mind control and discover for yourself the fantastic powers of the legendary Ninja warriors. By combining simple methods of meditation with aggressive maneuvers, you can become the master of any situation--from the author of Ninja Secrets of Invisibility. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

What do you mean?
I think this books is exactly the right book for serious people.
The healing/medical information is right on, and so are the references for
spiritual growth.

If you really had your OWN mind, no review would make a difference.

This book is more funny then anything
I got this book second hand at a garage sale like 20 years ago. Can anyone take this stuff seriously? I thought it was a bit more like comedy then anything else. I especially liked the "monkey steals the peach" move. That was an inside joke for me and my friends for quite some time.

Different Methods
Quite a few people in the usa are interested in learning ninjutsu.
Even though nothing beats a certified teacher, it would be quite hard to find a ninjutsu teacher who will teach you ALL ASPECTS even if you had time and put forth the effort.

And the Genbukan, Bunjinkan, and Jinenkan methods are correct, but watered down for the masses. However they are vastly superior to most of the 'sport-style' arts that inundate schools all over the world. But the sport styles can be used in defense if the principles are applied correctly.
I had the blessing to meet a ninja family in college. I trained with them for a year. At that time I did not know that what i was learning was ninjutsu. However years later after research, I was plesantly surprised.

I too thought Ashida Kim was a fake from reading all the derogatory things about him. His techniques come from a different source. Count Dante was also thought to be a fake but he did win real fights. James Mitose got a bad name as well but his Kosho-Ryu Kenpo is actually a part of ninjutsu family training.

Ninja were publicized of being Japanese. Which is correct. But as all nations have their martial arts, they also have their guerrilla warfare/espionage trained individuals. There are many legends on who the ninja really were and how they lived. But, one common thread is that they were supposed to be masters of deceit, concealment, and blending in.

As far as Ashida Kim having different aliases, never agreeing to meet for challenges, etc, he seems to be proficient in this regard. I mean if a ninja really accepted a fight challenge from a regular fighter, the ninja would get there ahead of time, and sneak up on the guy and knock him out.
Ninjas were not really known to stand on the battlefield and fight openly except for a couple of known Japanese legends.

As with all knowledge Ashida Kim's techniques working depend on the individual. Some are more useful than others. One must train to know which ones fit which situation. Instead of criticizing different arts, study them, gain what is practical, and apply it as part of your lifestyle.

Hopefully, even with my youth I can one day soon sell my belongings, and go to Japan to find a ninjutsu family to train with and tibet to find someone who can teach me the ways of altering possibilities.

Ashida Kim is a worhty martial artist.
One thing saddens me about the modern world. We have little oppurtunity to test our skills out no holds barred except in certain hidden matches.
Referees, rules and money are a practical thing, yet I wonder if the 'historical' fights were not a better test of warrior character.

Respect to all martial ways and all martial teachers as well as all of us students.
All have something useful to teach and more to learn.

Why Ashida Kim is Not Fake

Ashida Kim, criticized for his name non public lineage and numerous other stuff... So it makes him a fake? Lineage is both meaningless and paramount. Any individual can make a claim without proof. Lineage is to verify that original teachings spiritual and martial come from experience and acccomplishment in real life.The trust that the disciple has in the master after proper evaluation is that if he listens to the master he will be guided correctly along a path he may not be able to achieve himself. Over generations each disciple that attains mastery, learning all he can, can authoritatively add or change the art based on changing needs and conditions. The knowledge of the art may grow, degenerate, change and or be restored. This process was the original impulse behind the ninja clans. Many of the fighting styles, techniques and spiritual teachings of the ninja came from china directly including kung fu teachings as well as Esoteric Buddhism (Vajrayana) and Taoism (especially Taoist Alchemy). In addition to "historical" evidence about these teachings is the actual experience of being a martial disciple. Beyond "kata" and "rank" is the teaching in the manner of an apprenticeship of one person directly to another. How to stand how to breath, develop force and fearlessness, how to fight for real in a life or death street confrontation. Anyone who has experience the circulation of chi in the meridians, learned deep meditation, or even how to truly view themselves without bias and gone into the nightmare process behind
"enlightenment" knows that you can throw all the "Authority" behind an idea, but that does not mean that the idea will be heard correctly, practiced correctly or understood correctly by others. Somtimes a master will teach a student to the point where the student can teach himself, but because of politics the authority of lineage is not offically passed on. Scholarly basis for the legitimacy of what Ashida Kim has put in this book would require several volumes to document. This book is a simple set of instructions as a teacher would tell a student in the dojo, which are meant to be verified by practice. This includes explanations of chi, a diagram of Taoist Alchemical energy points on the body, chi gong excersizes for balancing the 5 elements and a very good introduction to chinese medical theory with quotes from the Yellow Emperors Medicene Classic. The Kuji are given with their japanese and chinese names. The Kuji are mudras with mantras and a special way of tracing mystic characters in the air. They entered into Ninjutsu into Japan as the Esoteric Buddhism was imported from China which is known as Mi Tseung (or Mi Zong). The claim that Ninjutsu and its mystical doctrines have no connection with anything chinese is extremely ignorant of. Even within the Bujinkan, Ninjutsu is seen as ultimatly a set of principles to be internalized to be used as the situation arises. The information that Ashida Kim does publish is of mysterious origin, but concepts taught have much historical precedent if it is dug for. It is also extremley direct and effective. The world is lucky to have the teachings of the Tokagure lineage survive with its history and techniqes intact and publicly taught. The idea that their are unkown, non public groups or individuals that either carried on ninja teachings of other traditions or re discovered lost knowlege is not by any means fantastic. Who is Ashida Kim? Where did he learn? Is the Black Dragon ryu a fraud? Read Ashida Kims books and practice them diligently. Then read everything you can about about Esoteric Buddhism and Taoism, Indian, Chinese and Japanese History. Train martial skills like you were going to depend on them in war. Meditate every day. After anywhwere from 5 to 15 years, look back on the truths "verified" by your training, and see them simply stated in this book. If ashida kim is a fraud, he is one of the most helpful insightful frauds of Ninja ever.

Blast from the past!
When this was first published in the mid 1980s, Ashida Kim was one of the few ninja authors to be found in mainstream American bookstores. Further, his books actually demonstrated techniques with descriptions and photos, while the Hayes titles available at that time largely did not.

Yes, he spells ninjitsu with an "i". That's just the "old school" method of spelling, ala jiu-jitsu, which used to be common practice. Of course, as we all know, the "modified Hepburn" system of transliteration would spell it "ninjutsu". BFD.

Yes, he's white and he uses a fake name. So what? "Bruce Lee" was a stage name, too.

To be sure, there's an element of "cheese" in his books, with the frequent use of Chinese technique names and the often trashy, drugged-looking opponents. But, that's consistent with other titles published by Paladin Press at the time -- same goes with Ohara and Unique.

On the downside, the kuji kiri given here differs from that shown in "Secrets of the Ninja". Pick & choose, I guess. At least this one is Japanese.

Did he have a teacher? He's often mentioned "Shendai the Silent" from Hawaii.

Regarding authenticity, let's keep in mind that the majority of the "real" ninja were killed off by Oda Nobunaga's forces in the 1500s. Thus, any latter-day ninja is bound to be more of a historian than a lineaged practitioner.

So Stephen K. Hayes spent a week and then a year in Japan with Hatsumi. Does that make him an expert? In what other martial art does one year of experience qualify you to open a franchise of schools and write books?

And while Hatsumi is a respectable and accomplished martial artist, how much actual ninjutsu did he study with Takamatsu? Case in point, his "Stick Fighting" book is clearly Aikido.

Note that as of 2006, none of the books carried by the ninja yashiki museum at Iga Ueno were written by either Hatsumi or Hayes.

If ninjutsu were truly the "ultimate fighting art", then the ninja would have been the ones that ruled Japan after the Sengoku jidai (warring states period), not the successive regimes of Oda, Toyotomi, and Tokugawa. Certainly, if ninja were truly "all that", then they would have started their own country, as opposed to whoring themselves out as mercenaries. And wouldn't they be the ones winning UFC tournaments today?

Thus, treat this book as you would any other throwback to the `80s: an interesting read, perhaps one giving you a few ideas or showing you a few techniques, but not the ultimate answer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

true ninjas wear biker gloves
well the biker gloves in the pictures were sort of flashy..........

An Excellent book!
For anyone who believes that Ashida Kim is a fake I tell you that his writings and wisdom are not to be confused with a common fraud's.This book has excellent techniques, guidelines for life, and pictures.It is a book that is so profoundly written that it has to be reviewed several timesby an average person to understand its meaningful context.This is thefirst book I purchased from Ashida Kim, and it has encouraged me topurchase others. Then, about the demon masks and strange movements to theunbelievers, they might be from somewhat slightly different styles, andabout how he mentions everything in Chinese culture, maybe he studied it orsomething! But I still believe this is an EXCELLENT book by an EXCELLENToffer.Read it!

a waste of paper...
I'm not going to insult "Ashida Kim", but simply address the curious and those looking for authentic ninjutsu. These books will do nothing but get the reader hurt. He has filled his books with nonsenscical techniques and ideas that are juvinile to say the least. Do not be fooledby his constant bragging of authenticity. He promotes violence and claimsthat ninjutsu is a super secret art that can only be taught to people"born as ninjas". Then why write books teaching people "howto be a ninja"? I thought it was so "secrect". We are notBORN ninjas. We are born human beings, no one person better then the other.Do not feel you cannot achieve your dreams. Readers, note how many badreviews you see here, of people calling him phoney and a money trap.There's a reason for such. Use your mind and gut feelings. AuthenticNinjutsu, found under Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu teaches peace and harmonyabove anything else. Mr. Kim promotes violence and ways to try andseriously harm another person, even take a life. Use your logic, why studybooks from a such a "round eye" who has changed his name to sound"more oriental". Is that authenticity? To hide your name? He sayshe cannot say what his teachers name is. Logical reasoning would simplyshow that he dosen't want people to actually be able to check hiscredability.

Use your mind, readers and seekers; support of random andviolent acts is not the way of a martial artist, and never has been the wayof the schools and families that have contributed to ninjutsu over themillennium.

Ashida Kim... Human being, teacher, Ninja.
If you're reading a review of this book, you're looking for an opinion on which to base your purchase. Here is mine, but I also discern it from thefacts. I highly value this book more than any other I own on Ninjitsu. Ihave learned an enormous amount from it, and it has improved my life. Somepeople say Ashida Kim teaches only basic karate moves. Ashida Kim teachesinvisibility here and stresses it more than anything. The prime concernwith all the tactics are hiding oneself to stop or avoid a conflict. Theremay at some points be moves that resemble karate but, there are only somany ways the body can move. All styles of physical combat are merelyvariations.

As for Ashida Kim being a fake, A Zen Koan fondly comes tomind (there are a few versions of it): A decorated martial artist comes toa new teacher to learn a new style of combat and is invited in for tea. Hetalks about all of his victories as the sage pours the hot liquid... whenthe cup is full, the sage keeps pouring, spilling it on the hand of thestudent. "WHY DID YOU KEEP POURING???", asked the student."Your head is like the cup", said the sage.

The point is,Ashida Kim has something to teach. Call it what you will. He isn't here toprove a point, himself, or his style. What you can learn from something andhow it affects your life is what counts. There are many roads up themountain who's summit is your goal. This may be the road for you, maybe itisn't. Life is a learning process.

Ashida Kim is helping people...
Ashida Kim has as always carefully written a helpful text to help others find the Way. Whether truth or fiction, the book is carefully laid out forthose individuals who are capable to find the Way. The techniques in thisbook, as in all others, require a great deal of practice, discipline andself understanding to make effective, but once one has trained oneself tothis level, the techniques do nothing but shine. One will find that otherschools only delude themselves into thinking that the skill levels thatthose in their schools have attained are capable in combat. Some sayNinjitsu would never be good in a competitive arena, some say Koga Hei LongPao Ying techniques are fairy tale. Only those who have trained themselvesto a high enough level will be able to see past their own emotions andmental states to see these techniques for what they are. ... Read more

Product Description
In Ashida Kim's new book, the author draws on ancient wisdom, Chinese medicine, and his expertise in numerous martial arts traditions to show students of ninjitsu the path to achieving superior strength of body, mind, and will. Readers will learn meditation techniques and exercises aimed at attaining optimum performance of all the body's organs, limbs, and systems. Photos throughout. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Very poor....
As previous reviewers have noted, this man has no knowledge of ninjutsu as taught by Hatsumi sensei, or Mr Morgan, who I have had the pleasure of training with very briefly, and AK is not recognised by ANY reliable source for the dissemination of Ninjutsu.It`s fair to say, after reading this book, he is a bad writer too.I understand his name is Chris Hunter, and he is from New York.Only a complete fool would attempt any of the nonsense in this book. If you genuinley seek training, google is your friend.

Stupidity
Just try Mr Kim's techniques in real life situations and you will end up in the grave.

Stay away from the books of this "Grandliar". He is not a "Grandmaster" as he claims to be.

Your life depends on the Truth
Ashida Kim came to South Africa in about 1988/1989 and I briefly met him. At that stage I was learning ninjutsu under Brin Morgan. Brin Morgan is a personal student of Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi and is one of the most highly qualified ninjutsu practitioners in the Western World.

To cut a long story short, Ashida Kim's real name is Radfid Davies (not sure of the spelling) and he is not an authority on ninjutsu. The ninjutsu fraternity is very aware of his shortcomings but leave him to his own devices in the knowledge that the true seekers on ninjutsu will unravel the truth.

Stephen Hayes is one of the few legitimate authors of ninjutsu. He speaks Japanese fluently, is married to a Japanese woman and is a personal student and friend of Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi. Books written by Stephen Hayes are based on information gained from Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi who is the present grandmaster of ninjutsu and therefore the undisputed authority on ninjutsu. Hopefully this snippet of truth shall set you free.

May the force be with you in your quest to seek out the truth.

A good book, but not authentic ninjutsu
Let me make one thing clear: This book is not authentic ninjutsu. In fact, it is closer to being shaolin qiqong than ninjutsu (the Da Mo series, for example). It even has sections with yoga in it (sun salute)!
This book is divided into many different sections, each of which are not necessarily originated from the same art (and definitely not from ninjutsu). This doesn't stop the book from being good, however, but it does impede readability for the reader who knows something on the subject already.
I would recommend this book for intermediate qiqong practicioners that are looking for ways to improve their qiqong, but I would NOT recommend this book to anyone trying to learn more about ninjutsu.
Also, the last section of this book (on iron body) is really dangerous, even for someone who knows what they are doing, and although the author stresses precaution, anyone without years of preliminary training will get hurt if they try and practice the exercises described.

Don't underestimate
I don't know if he is authentic ninja or not but the book brings together rare knowledge from the chinese martial arts. Lets not forget the original ninja were the Lin Kuen from China, during the early unification of the 3 states period many peoples fled to Japan. The Japanese generally killed any foreigner so it is not to far a stretch that many survived in a strange land as ninja. See my review of Ninja Mind control. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (40)

The REAL 'Secrets Of The Ninja'
If you have read any of the reviews of this book, then you high-probability have the impression of the overall disdain that this book has garnered. Positive comments are mostly from a nostalgic viewpoint from those who purchased this waaay back.


Well, I have that nostalgic position, as I bought this back in 1981 ($6.95).... And I can see the negative aspects, as much of the book is pure crap....

But not everything about it is crap.

The Ninja Stealth techniques, while somewhat laughably presented in their simplistic glory, are basically valid.

Stealth depends upon concealment by the use of all available cover and with as little motion as possible. When motion is required, a low profile and fluid movement are desired...WHY ? Aside from the obvious; smooth motion as opposed to a jerky movement which catches the eye more. The human eye will detect motion involuntarily, and be drawn to it, resulting in the focus of conscious attention. How often have you ever noticed something that 'just moved'... out of 'the corner of your eye'? People notice movement, and react to it with attention. Stay Out Of Direct Line Of Sight as much as possible, either through cover or fluid movement.

On a related side-note; if you want stealth: Be In Shape. Exercise. Be LIMBER.Why ? Because it`s not going to help you one damn bit to use cover and stay out of direct line of sight if the moment you move your knees creak and 'pop' audibly.

There really was not too much in the way of 'magic' about the Ninja Secrets Of 'Invisibility', just common sense and applied stealth technique.

The closest thing to a mystic angle is going to take some explanation....
First...Have you ever felt like you were being watched ?...Ever felt that way and then discovered that you WERE being watched ? Ever 'felt' someone looking at you ?

Well... It does happen.

You may find this hard to grasp, just plain 'flakey' sounding...But EVERYONE has a certain degree of innate psychic awareness in the form of an animalistic sensitivity about being focused upon by another mind. I know--sounds like crap, but you can test this out for yourself...Go out and STARE at people. Focus upon them. Sure, most of the time, they won`t notice...After all, their mind is full of their own life and thus pre-occupied...

But a few just might start looking around uncomfortably and --if you keep looking--will turn and look right back at you!

When you focus your attention on another person, you extend a sort of psychic line towards that other mind, and if the mind is open and sensitive enough--or of the situation is one where they are actively TRYING to be aware of another presence-- then they can pick up on that extension of your own mind.

The solution? DO NOT STARE DIRECTLY AT PEOPLE WHEN YOU WISH TO REMAIN UN-NOTICED. Use your eyes with a broad field of vision that encompasses anyone within it, but does not focus upon them. That way, you are aware of their movements, but not intent upon them.

In this way --and by remaining absolutely STILL when in concealment-- you can remain un-felt, un-seen and un-suspected.

A fun side-benefit of this is that with fluid movement you can actually move within a group of people by matching your movements to theirs` and by staying just outside their peripheral vision.

I know it sounds a bit tricky, but I have --on several occasions-- actually walked within a group of people without their noticing me until I alerted them by speaking. Granted, these were incidents where the people in question had their minds focused on something else, either an animated conversation or just with finding their way, but it was still alot of fun for me when I suddenly spoke up and they jumped at my 'sudden appearance' in their midst....I mean, I was suddenly 'just there'... less than three feet from them.

Hard to beleive ? Bear in mind that these were GROUPS of people, with their attention focused elsewhere, and when I moved in from behind them, or from an oblique angle, I slid into step with them just out of their line of sight and matched my movements to theirs. People in a group are already used to someone being next to them, near them, so if they subliminally pick up at all on another presence, they just assume that it`s someone who was already there.

So what has all this got to do with Ashida Kim`s "Secrets Of The Ninja" ?... Just this: the book will give you a few useful basics.

I won`t get into the other aspects of the book. Hell, I`ve already written enough on Stealth alone.

Oh, in case you`re wondering who I am to be going on about this, well I`m not going to tell you that I`m a Ninja....

But then, if I were...Why would I tell you ?

Seen better, seen worse...
As far as 'ninja books' go, this is probably a cult classic that's been on everyone's shelf at one point in time, mine included. The techniques in here are very likely as un-authentic as it gets as far as ninjutsu goes. That being said, what is shown here works at least as well as what's being taught in Bujinkan books for a lot more money, for better or for worse. Between the two factions, it's six of one, half dozen of the other. In the end, a ninja book is a ninja book -- you know what you're buying and you know what you should expect before you even open the cover.

A fraud
Ashida Kim (Christopher Davis) is a fraud not that he makes up silly nicknames which is suspicious in itself. This man sells black belt certifications to anyone who's willing to pay for it without even checking out the applicants credentials. In other words, anyone can write to Ashida Kim, fake his martial arts records and get certified as a black belt master. These fake black belts can use their bought black belts and con people into joining their dojos, posing as grandmasters and experts in martial arts. I have no problem with self-taught martial artists like Ashida Kim but he is a downright joke and a fraud who has been exposed but continues to practice his dishonesty and has no remorse for doing so.

yeah right
Bear with me while I get straight to the point. You would have to be very naive to believe any of the things in this book or the others written by this self proclaimed "ninja" author (whether using the alias "Ashida Kim" or any of his other names that he uses to sell books of rehashed "secret" info); there's something suspicious about a red-haired American that uses a combination Japanese first name with a Korean surname anyway, who by the way, has also sold black belt certifications on the net. This book is filled with fictionlized examples of ninjas and their amazing supernatural powers and completely made up techniques and training sequences, not or very loosely based on any actual or historcal martial art style. This is an author who tries to lure people with limited martial arts knowledge into his cartoonish imaginary world of mysterious warriors and their training, filling these readers with hopes that they may become the same. It's the equivalent of offering the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" movies as HOW-TO training videos...starring "Ashida" as Splinter. Somehow, with the abundance of knowledge made available in the last 20 years on legitimate martial arts systems and their lineages, making the simplicity of differentiating between real schools and con-artists all the more obvious, the fact that these types of books are still sold and in print is absolutely astonishing to me. To think that any educated adult or teen would open this book and then proceed to buy it is beyond my comprehension.This ISN'T martial arts folks, it's books like these that put misguided information and confusion in the world; especially among our youth, that are trying to figure out what this martial arts stuff is really all about. Are we to believe that the heart of martial arts is notoriety, back flips/tricks to amaze your friends, and starring in Hollywood films? Or how about that there are ninja "masters" walking all around us, especially in the 80's in California? Some little author has been staying up past his beddy-by time watching too many "Highlander" and "American Ninja" movies. If you want reasonably informative books on ninjutsu, of which there are few, your best bet is to just stick with authors such as Masaaki Hatsumi and Stephen Hayes (their books may or may not leave you feeling satisfied, but at least they're not con-artists). Ninjutsu is probably the hardest of the martial arts to find real information on, and the mainstream martial arts community enjoys squabbling over its authenticity as a specific style and its history almost as much as arguing about whose "art" is better...welcome to Western ideals, where "I" and "Me are what the universe centers around.Therefore, when looking for information on this style do so with a very discerning eye. My suggestion to the potential new student is to research all the martial arts (east and west), with respect for what they each offer (they haven't survived the centuries because they suck) and always be ready to aknowledge you didn't know something or to give up a previous notion when you find its incorrect. Some very good books that apply to any marial study that Irecommend you look into are "Living the Martial Way" by Forrest E. Morgan and "The Way and the Power" by Fredrick J. Lovret; Amazon usually has them. They will help you sift through the garbage and find the quality in the martial arts world, and especially will get beginners on the right track so they do not fall for books of fiction and possibly lose hundreds of dollars to self proclaimed "experts" and unqualified "instructors. Way And The Power: Secrets Of Japanese StrategyLiving the Martial Way : A Manual for the Way a Modern Warrior Should ThinkThe Grandmaster's Book of Ninja TrainingThe Way of the Ninja: Secret TechniquesThe Mystic Arts of the Ninja

Aww, come on!
Just downloaded this book for free on Mr. Kims homepage and I just finished reading it...It's hilarious on so many levels and I firmly believe that all the reviewers giving it a thumps up are pulling our legs -you CANNOT be serious and I CANNOT stress that enough.
Now, I'm no authority on ninjas or oriental mysticism but some of Ashida's claims are just over the top, f.eks. "But a life span of more than 250 years is not unknown among those who practice the
very exercises given in the previous section." From page 32.

And:

"-Ancient texts tell of a method using the elbows and heels to climb with the back to the wall, as illustrated. This technique requires three years' practice crawling on the floor, three years climbing on a wall with bricks jutting out, and three years' climbing on a smooth wall." Page 48.
...
I can't 'prove' Ashida (japansese name) Kim (curiously, a korean name)is NOT a ninja, but the book doesnt prove he IS.

At the very best "Secrets..." lists a few useful tidbits about stealth and concealment, but these can be found in any book about special forces tactics.

Ohh -and the pictures in the book are SO funny, especially the skimasked ninja wearing black sandals with a bright white sole!

... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Ninja Camp, YAY! Where's the Pool?
Bring the sterno, pup tent, bug repellent and black ski mask, it's ninja camp time!Written by an anonymous individual with a style eerily similar, nay, virtually identical to that of neo-ninja extraordinaire Radford Davis (who prefers the multicultural nom-de-plume Ashida Kim for PC reasons), a complete guide to what it is like to dress up in black or camoflague and prance about the woods in an effort to re-enact the deeds of the Ancient Ninja of Old Japan.The author mixes in a lot of kung fu mythology and modern kenpo techniques in for kicks (cheezy pun intended), along with some materials [...], borrowed from Stephen K Hayes ninja books.He doesn't seem to know much about the actual history of either Japan or Ninja, but if you enjoy seeing grown men dressed up as ninjas and striking stealthy poses in wide open spaces, this is the book for you!

Author Radford Davis is one of the fewer than 600 American men who, as teens, managed to find authentic secret ninja teachers here in the United States.Apparently during the late 1970's and '80's hundreds of Ninja from the Koga district of Japan flooded the United States to try out for parts in various ninja films and television programs.Hollywood being as cutthroat as it is (and was then, let me tell you!), most of these Ninja had to go out and take non-ninja jobs while waiting for calls from their agents which, sadly, never came.Imagine if you will the ninja fast-food worker, the ninja landscaper, the ninja janitor, the ninja waiter.It couldn't have been easy!

Thankfully, a good number of these undocumented Ninja immigrants were able to find work as Secret Teachers to teenage boys, who they carefully groomed as their protegees.As with Radford Davis's Secret Teacher, they eventually disapeared when their youthful charge has mastered the elements of ninja-craft.In true ninja fashion, to date none of these Secret Teachers have left a trace, not a photograph, not a document...no change of address on file with the post office.It's secret stuff this ninja business,I tell you!Many of the authentic Koga Ninja techniques are artfully disguised as modern kenpo, and much of the theory presented here is surprisingly in line with that taught by Stephen K Hayes.This in and of itself screams, "authenticity!".It is not known what became of Radford Davis's teacher.Only 2 stars because he's exposed the secrets of the ninja, which will undoubtedly impact the market (again) and put a whole lot of Koga Ninja out of work and back behind the counter of venues as vaunted as the McDonald's and The Krusty Krab (move over Spongebob-O!).Who needs a secret teacher after all, when you can learn to be a ninja from a book?

Happy Stealthing! ;)

ONLY FOR THE ADEQUATELY PREPARED.
There are several different types of people that read these kinds of books.First, the impressionable young one, whose desire to become a ninja was founded after repeated viewings of the feature film "3 Ninjas."The latter are highly trained professionals, skilled in multiple styles of martial arts, dedicated, secretive, and destructive.For the former, this book will do one of two things: It will bore them, or crush their frail intellect.For the battle hardened master, this book will impart much wisdom, wisdom of the sword and wisdom of the mind head.Your really should only buy this if you are already a ninja, or just a lay person capable of the delivery of cool looking death bringing special moves.

How to become a ninja
I don't think that you will become a ninja just reading tihs book

This book was horrible
this book was an absolute ripoff.anyone who has this book was definately ripped off.i doubt ashida kim as any experience at all in martial arts.all his books stink and this one does the most.

No as "camp" as some!
Well what can I say? This is an interesting read. Basically a monologue of an unidentified participant at an Ashida Kim ninja training camp. Survival skills and ambushes are covered along with some empty hand and gun defences. I would say though that if you were not a fan of Ashida Kim then I would not bother. It either adds to his myth or his legend. It depends on our view of him. You either love him or hate him! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Absoulute genius
Ashida has done it again. A great source of ninjutsu (ninjitsu, doesn't matter how you spell it). People can say ninjutsu or ninjitsu, it doesn't matter. People call his books a gag or a joke because they don't want to put in time to learn it, martial arts does not come instantly people, get it straight already, if you want something with instant results, don't learn martial arts.
I learned martial arts from my dad when I was little, master at ninjutsu, even he says Ashida Kim (Chris Hunter) is correct. If you are gonna learn ninjutsu, you might as well take the time to read it. People who don't understand Ashida Kim, don't learn ninjutsu, you would just end up getting killed by someone if you can't do basic techniques.

ASHIIDA KIM IS THE BEST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

excellent
Ashida Kim is an excellent author. His books are a must for your collection. If your worried about wasting $10 on a book, than you are not genuinely interested and have no business writing a review (unless you got paid some way for it). There are very few authors and books that have much to say about the subject. The books are relatively short and not overbearing, and may be exciting the whole way through.
Ashida Kim books are a great way to compliment the Bujinkan system. There is a wealth of in tact traditional information from Hatsumi's systems. Also, many Bujinkan techniques may have also been relevant to the Samurai. The ninja was also aware of the samurai arts. Especially as some Ninja were Samurai and Ronin(masterless Samurai) However, remember that at one time there were over 100 families considered Ninja at one time in midievil Japan. There were also a few different eras where the Ninja played varrying roles and utilized different focuses corresponding to the different times. There were Ninja of many types and walks of life, some even monks, farmers, mountain people and peasants. Many of the clans are still unknown to society, even in Japan. The more esoteric techiques and Magic(information/knowledge not commonly known) are not authentically...easy to find. Bujinkan is a great system, however, not the only one. Ashida Kim's books are a great compliment to Bujinkan and focus mainly on the actual Ninjitsu (Ninjutsu)side of the art (for example Ninpo). Ashida Kim has many books on actual fighting techniques and moves ,however, he also has written many books on ninja invisibility, meditation, outdoor survival, climbing, maneuvers, silent stepping techniques, Ninjutsu weapons, cloak and dagger, shapeshifting and disguise (part of invisibility), and many modern applications to the techniques. Ashida Kim actually has a very good writing syle, in my opinion. I have exchanged a few emails with him over the last few years. Ashida Kim is definately respectible. There may always be someone who likes to voice their negative judgements of another and that will project their insecurities of themselves on to another (not unlike a few of the Amazon.com posted reveiws of this book). Even when they haven't ever met and don't know the other. Everyone is probably over critical at one time or another. On their own, the Ashida Kim books are of course not sufficient to learn every aspect of the art, However, there are important ideas not found in many other informational resources. I recomend the Bushindo, Bujinkan system for the main structure of your research and practice. But that alone is also insufficient. Along with the wonderful Bujinkan System, Ashida Kim and Ha Ha Lung books are great examples of supplementary material with many modern day applications spelled out for the reader. I cannot comment about those with more limited imaginations and spirits. The truth is that his books can be quite amusing and informative.

Ashida Kim is totally out of touch with reality
I bought this book for one of my brothers for Christmas as a joke, and we had a lot of fun laughing at it. Ashida Kim (who's real name is Chris Hunter) seems to be lost in a 1980's ninja movie inspired fantasy world. You'd think he learned ninjutsu by watching Sho Kosugi movies.

Some of the "ancient secrets of surprise" in this book include tapping a sentry on the shoulder then moving in the other direction when he turns his head to look, and jumping out from behind trees and bushes. Heh heh heh.

If you've got money to waste and are up for some cheap laughs, then any of Ashida Kim's books will do. If, however, you are looking for books on real-world martial arts, get something else.

The Invisible Ninja
Konichiwa!! This is a very good book on Ninjutsu!!
It has many good stealth and surprise enemy removal techniques as well as unarmed techniques!! Even though most of the names of the techniques are in Chinese, but it has very good techniques on stealth, enemy removal, unarmed techniques, and distraction and tricky techniques!! Also, don't forget that's what Ninjutsu is mainly about is stealth and trick ideas!!
Master Kim did a great job with this book and others as well!!...

This is fake
If you want to true history of NinjUtsu, the true techniques and fighting styles of Ninpo, then buy Hayes/Hatsumi.

This guy talks about Count Dracula or whatever that 60s karate guy's name was. Anyway, he talks about this guy who use to advertise in COMIC BOOKS ABOUT HOW GOOD HE WAS. And this man claims he TRAINED with him? He spreads lies, saying he got his mastership of NinjItsu when his "master" was lying on his death bed in some mountain on some far away land a long time ago. Was this also in a galaxy far, far away? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Ninja Death Touch Review
Like most other martial arts books I come across, details are sorely needed. The Ninja Death Touch book covers some of the acupuncture points atthe very surface level. It tells the reader what is possible when someonemasters the art, but does not tell the reader HOW to master it. So anyonewho buys the book thinking that the book will teach the person to masterthe art of ninjitsu will be very disappointed. It is only after I've learntTai Chi and chi kung that I understand how deceptive books on martial artsare. It is important to know where the pressure points are on the humanbody, but more important is the ability to direct or channel your 'chi' orenergy to parts of your body so that any part of your body essentiallybecomes a weapon. Also, the ability to direct your 'chi' allows you to useminimum force for maximum damage. Books are by no means a substitute for amaster.

This book is currently not available.
Not here ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

HAIL KIM!
Ninja : Secrets of Invisibility was the most helpful book I have read when training to become a Ninja. Not only did it provide great techniques for distracting potentially harmful people, but it also given me a sense of strength and agility of the mind. I have stayed in hiding for four years with the lessons given in this book.

If you ever want to become a ninja, read this book! You must study its teachings intently if you ever want any results. I believe the problem with the other reviewers is that they did not take it seriously enough.

Use the ninja : secrets of invisibility in your mind first!

Brings back memories....not necessarily GOOD ones...
When I was 12 or so, I remember watching a martial arts film marathon...and though all the feats of strength and skill of different styles were remarkable, I was the most excited and mesmerized by watching ninjas. They stole my very heart. The way they moved, almost as if by magic...their awareness so acute, almost as if they know your next move before YOU do...Then watching scenes of them sharpening thier skills at training camp in a secret mansion in some secret, mist-cloaked mountain...that was it! That was my dream fantasy that I set out to do. Some idea THAT was considering my family was dead-set against the idea of martial arts PERIOD: "You're NOT SUPPOSED to do that, you're a GIRL...Quit trying to do things that are for BOYS! What's wrong with you?? Does this mean you are going to grow up to be a LEZ??" besides, it's not like ninjutsu studios are as easy to find as say, karate. I was so RELIEVED to find THIS very book advertised...the PERFECT first step for me(I THOUGHT)!! I scrimped & saved my sweat-shop allowance and sent away for the book. I tore into it when it finally came, but as I read it, my heart sank. You see, my FIRST red flag about buying this book SHOULD have been, that THIS BOOK was advertised in a PRACTICAL JOKE CATALOG (seriously not kidding).

I can't explain HOW, but I knew in my heart that this was NOT "it" (Not that I was or am an EXPERT). He had no wisdom to impart, no "SECRETS" to share, no solid methods to practice or build upon ....he's just some faceless goon in a ninja costume that teaches you HOW TO TIP-TOE...and some "defense techniques" that are very impractical and unrealistic....and if a naive 12yo girl could sense this, let that be a warning to YOU!!

It appears Mr. "Kim" has gotten his "NINJA TRAINING" by watching the very same martial arts sensationalized fantasy films of the 80's that I watched as a little "kusa"!!!

It left me disheartened and wary about ANY book containing the name "ninja"...but over the years I have come upon ninjutsu books that actually contain knowledge worth learning/sharing.
It's been said before, but the closest you can get, bookwise, to authentic ninjutsu is Hatsumi....even Hayes has some good ideas to share.

I am awed at the reviewers that not only are fans of this poser, but DEFEND him so voraciously!! I don't like him (by him I mean his "teachings") and personally I don't respect him. He embellishes, stretches the truth, or'll just OUTRIGHT LIE about what he knows (or DOESN'T know)...he lets his readers feel like they're let in on some amazing, long-lost, ancient secrets, which would of course get you feeling raring to go try out these "techniques" in real life, but in this case, your LIFE depends on the TRUTH...And listening to Kim's instruction then wanting to go out and try it will surely get you seriously HURT...possibly killed...or get your hind end kicked from here to japan!!

His book ought to be printed with the disclaimer (for ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY)

If you truly feel passionate about pursuing authentic ninjUtsu (not ninjItsu like kim likes to call it...let that be further proof of his lack of authenticity) you'll come upon what the FACTS are, the history, what's REAL...on your own...in your own time, in your own way...as I have. Don't rely TOO heavily on the perspective of a book author, because there is a chance thier perspective might be so heavily askew *coughASHIDAKIMcough* that you may be led astray to misinformation, half-truths, even bodily injury. One of a ninja's traits are super KEEN INSTINCTS...I suggest you get in touch with yours before you begin.

If you've ever watched the animated show "King of the Hill" you'll understand what I mean when I say>: Ashida Kim is the Dale Gribble of Ninjutsu!!!

"ShisshhhShisshhhhaaaaah!!!" *LOL*

Worst book on Ninjutsu written ever
This guy is not Ninja.I bought this book and wasted money. If you want to learn Ninjutsu, buy books from Hatsumi sensei or Tanemura sensei. These are real masters.

Class A Stealth Techniques
Forget these envy-oriented reviews! This book contains REAL invisibility techniques! If you dread those horrible togakure postures and so called invisibility techs, then do yourself a favor and study this book by Ashida Kim, a gentleman, a great writer and a man who has been hated by hundreds of misguided teenagers only because he IS DIFFERENT! If Ninja is the one who endures, man, HE is Ninja! Only to say...if you dont know The Classic Mi Lu Kata (revealed in this book), then you dont know ninjutsu. It works! Not for those lacking skill, of course (hi togakures:-)

Don't waste your time.
This book is a waste of time and money.
But worse than that, using nonsense techniques
from this book will probably get you
killed, or captured on the battlefield. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Excuse me while I laugh
Ok, I will get straight to the point and say that you should NOT buy this book. Ashida Kim is not Asian, and his name comes from 2 different countires (Ashida=Japan, Kim=Korea). Now, Stephan Hayes is also not Asian, but has practiced NinjUtsu. Ashida Kim does not even say in his books how he got to be a ninja. He writes this farfetched stories that couldn't even get published in a fictional book.

Save your money. You want NinjUtsu, not NinjItsu, go to Hatsumi or Hayes. Not Kim.

esoterically fantastic
Ashida Kim has done it again! The fantastic and deadly world of the ninja is opened up to our eyes. The use of the cloak and dagger is a very interesting read along with the techniques which are devastating. A mustbuy for fan and practioner alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Long time practicioner and student of Ashida's teachings
I have studied from Grandmaster Kim's books for 17 years, and have been combat tested on more occasions than I care to count. With the dilligent study I have put forth, the techniques I learned from his books have saved my life on more than one occasion. I HIGHLY reccomend these books for those of you who cannot afford classes in the art, and who have a genuine need for this type of lethal martial art. Those who are consistent and dilligent in their practice shall excell as I have, now becoming an official teacher of Ashida's style.

Informative, eye opening.
This is a very informative book. It will open your eyes to just how vulnerable you really are!There is no chance of you using the techniques described here due to the technical nature of what is involved. The level of detail included here is testamant to that.

The newcomer to vital points of the body
Great book teaching the well known vital points of the human body. Unfortunately, the newcomer student in the art may think is THAT easy as well. It's not. Have a try. Ashida Kim's books about Ninjitsu are the greatest. And quite easy to understand since you don't have to know much about the subject (martial arts, ninjitsu, etc) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Toss in garbage can
Ok, I will get straight to the point and say that you should NOT buy this book. Ashida Kim is not Asian, and his name comes from 2 different countires (Ashida=Japan, Kim=Korea). Now, Stephan Hayes is also not Asian, but has practiced NinjUtsu. Ashida Kim does not even say in his books how he got to be a ninja. He writes this farfetched stories that couldn't even get published in a fictional book.

Save your money. You want NinjUtsu, not NinjItsu, go to Hatsumi or Hayes. Not Kim.

Deadly
Ashida Kim has not let us down!This book is a very good guide on the basic throws of ninjitsu as taught by the B.D.F.S. I recommend the book to ninja and grappling enthusiasts alike. Once you read this book your enemies boneswill crunch and defeat to them will be shattering (bone shatteringthatis). A very interesting read.

the deadliest throw ever discovered
throw ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

If stupidity could kill.......
.....Ashida Kim would be dead by now. This guy does not have a clue about Ninjutsu. Stay away from him , his books and his videos

Ridiculous
From merely the cover of the book one can see what a charlatan Ashida Kim is.I am a martial artist and I can tell you that this book is a piece of junk.Ashida Kim is not a real martial artist.He cannot even spell the art he professes to study correctly.Its ninjutsu not ninjitusu.The moves he advises in this book are foolhardy at best and go downhill from there.Stay away from this book and all others by Ashida Kim.

I find this funny
Ok, I will get straight to the point and say that you should NOT buy this book. Ashida Kim is not Asian, and his name comes from 2 different countires (Ashida=Japan, Kim=Korea). Now, Stephan Hayes is also not Asian, but has practiced NinjUtsu. Ashida Kim does not even say in his books how he got to be a ninja. He writes this farfetched stories that couldn't even get published in a fictional book.

And this, this is the funniest. If you want a good book describing how a woman should fight, maybe a woman should WRITE the book?! I've seen females destroy this book, because of the lies he put in this book that will get a woman killed.

Save your money. You want NinjUtsu, not NinjItsu, go to Hatsumi or Hayes. Not Kim.

Definitive text on self defense for women
This book serves as a practical, easy to understand text on self protection for women.Valuable information is shared which allows even women with little martial art experience to defend themselves effectively.Escapes from stand up attacks and ground attacks are explained and illustrated clearly, as well as preventive measures for out-witting potential attackers.The origins of the female ninja explained in this text adds further to the richness of this work, adding an element of history that will intrigue the reader. Well done, Ashida Kim!

Nice Work Again, Ashida!
A nicely written book. While "Ninjitsu for Women" could work well as a stand-alone, it is quite helpful if you have read Ashida's other book "Secrets of the Ninja". Those two books, in tandem, create the ultimate course for the beginner Kunoichi.

Perhaps the best part of the book, was the history of the Kunoichi. It was interesting to learn how women became ninjas, and what their seperate titles were. I only wish that section was longer! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Don't read this Review, like the book, it's FORBIDDEN!
Just Kidding!This book discusses the FORBIDDEN FIGHTING TECHNIQUES of the NINJA.And when you see these models performing their...techniques on paper, you too will be ~privileged~ to know why certain fighting techniques have been relegated to the realm of the FORBIDDEN.Namely in this case, because the techniques simply cannot work and will either cause you to injure yourself, or some hapless bystander.

One would be better advised to don cardboard armor and Nerf(TM) weapons than to heed the sallow call of this slender volume.Yes, I know playing ninja Ashida Kim style can be fun.You get to dress up in a black karate outfit and put on a black knit ski-mask and go traipsing about in broad daylight being...inconspicuous and all. Gets a wee bit hot in the summer though under all of that heat-absorbing black polyester fabric and the wool ski mask and such...however let me assure you that it's all fun and games until you waltz into the local 7-Eleven or Kwikee-Mart thinking "Gatorade", and the cashier takes one look at you in all your ninja stealth-finery and thinks "robbery" and pulls out ol' bessie.Not even the great Sho Kosugi has the ninja prowess to fend off the Ancient Powers of the Mystical shotgun.

That aside, Ashida Kim books are great gag gifts for real martial artists! :)

Don't buy if you want real ninja fighting techniques
First off this is a terrible book if you want to learn real ninjutsu. I personally own this book and a few other titles by Ashida Kim aka Radford W. Davis. I exchanged personal emails with Mr. Davis and he hates amazon. He also claims to be trained in the Koga ninja arts, which died out. If you don't believe me check out wikipedia and type in "Ashida Kim" or "Koga ninja" That being said, the fighting in this book demonstrate: Karate/Kung Fu/Gung Fu techniques not authentic ninjutsu. The weapons skills are basic and anyone wiht that kind of weapon in their hand could probably figure out.You want to possess real ninja fighting skills join the Bujinkan or the Genbukan. Picking up a book with not endow you with the awesome fighting ability. Enroll in at a dojo, practice, get instruction a real Sensei, and train. Please don't waste you money.

Not terrible...
Well, first off, Ashida Kim is a fake, for those who didn't know.It's not that he's unknowledgible, but he really capitalized on the "Ninja" craze of the 80's, and I think he ended up drinking some of his own kool-aid, ya know?That said, this book is not without merit.While everything concerning ninja history, culture & rituals is quite suspect (I honestly don't believe any of it that hasn't been verified by another, independent source), his basic conditioning excercises, stances, and hidden applications of basic "blocks" seems right on.He seems to draw from many different sources (Oriental & Occidental) in order to write his book, which by itself isn't so bad (actually pretty good); that he gives none of them credit, ain't so good.Most of the physical stuff is OK, at least no worse than the karate books at the time, but the super-secret, ultra-mystical "we are the dark warriors" garbage he spews in the first and last sections of the book is laughable.On the plus side, he demonstrates the use of the shoge (dagger & ring attatched by a length of cord), as well as some sword quick-draw movements; on the down side, if the Shoge wasn't exotic enough, he's got a "ninja walking stick" with a weighted chain inside and rubber stoppers on either end that looks like it comes from a bad Hong Kong flick.

Would I recomend this book to anyone?Probably not.It seems for every good, insightful bit he has, it's counterballanced by information that's dubious at best.If you own it already, there's no need to be ashamed, but trying to separate useful info from make-believe is quite a headache.Anyone interested in ninja history and culture could do better.

This guy is fake
Ok, I will get straight to the point and say that you should NOT buy this book. Ashida Kim is not Asian, and his name comes from 2 different countires (Ashida=Japan, Kim=Korea). Now, Stephan Hayes is also not Asian, but has practiced NinjUtsu. Ashida Kim does not even say in his books how he got to be a ninja. He writes this farfetched stories that couldn't even get published in a fictional book.

Save your money. You want NinjUtsu, not NinjItsu, go to Hatsumi or Hayes. Not Kim.

Nothing Good About It
I felt bad giving one star to this book.It doesn't deserve it.This book is great for bloodthirsty wanna-be's and other miscreants.It is valuable only as an example of what ninja arts are not.From a martial artperspective, it contains no orginal material.Some people might like it. I think Ashida (funny name for a white guy) is a fraudulent sham. ... Read more

Product Description
Chapters: Taboo, Frank Dux, Stephen K. Hayes, Steve Jennum, Scott Morris, Jack Hoban, Ron Duncan, Ashida Kim. Source: Wikipedia. Pages: 37. Not illustrated. Free updates online. Purchase includes a free trial membership in the publisher's book club where you can select from more than a million books without charge. Excerpt: Boyle Heights, California, United States Jaime Luis Gomez (born July 14, 1975), better known by his stage name Taboo, is an American rapper, actor, and singer best known as a member of the hip-hop group the Black Eyed Peas. Taboo has a mixed background of Mexican and Shoshone descent. He was born in Boyle Heights, California and raised in Los Angeles, California, and was educated at the Garvey Intermediate. Two days before his 33rd birthday, Taboo married Jaymie Dizon in Pasadena, California on July 12, 2008. will.i.am and apl.de.ap served as groomsmen. The couple had their first child, a boy, named Jalen on July 19, 2009. He has a son from a previous relationship named Josh, who was born December 5, 1993. Taboo performing with the Black Eyed Peas at Outside Lands 2009He joined the Black Eyed Peas in 1995. Groupmates apl.de.ap and will.i.am were originally in a group called Atban Klann, but changed the name after changing record labels. In 2001, Stacy Ferguson joined and completed the band's current lineup. Taboo is known for his kung-fu-inspired dance moves (he is a practitioner of Jeet Kune Do and a black belt in Ninjutsu) and an eclectic style of dress. It is possible that his martial arts skills could have had a factor into him being cast as video game character Vega (whose character's fighting style somewhat match Taboo's) in the live-action movie Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun Li. As of 2008, Taboo is in the process of creating a solo album, T.A.B.O.O. Taboo has said that he hopes to collaborate with artists such as Frankie J, E-40, Pitbull, and Kumbia Kings. Shakira, Blu Cantrell and Juanes ha...More: http://booksllc.net/?id=2577348 ... Read more

Product Description
Ninja were the Ultimate Warriors of feudal Japan. Cloaked in darkness and secrecy, the Ghost-Soldiers of the Invisible Fist struck fear into the hearts of their enemies and wreaked havoc on those who incurred their wrath. The principles of these occult methods have not changed and apply even today. The principles and forms presented herein are intended for use by a lone individual. Some Ninjitsu ryu (schools) advocate the use of such equipment as shuriken, grapples, shaken, even poisons and firearms. These schools train to use or improvise any weapon that may further the objective of the mission. There is much to be said for this approach, even among the schools that practice invisibility such as the Black Dragon Ryu, Therefore, sections explaining the classical Ninja weapons are included. ... Read more