Shurikenjutsu 手裏剣術: The art of throwing hidden weapons

El Shurikenjutsu (手裏剣術) It is the Japanese martial art focused on the use of shuriken (手裏剣), small throwing weapons designed to injure, distract, or incapacitate an opponent. Although commonly associated with ninjas, shuriken were also used by samurai and other warriors in combat situations where cunning, speed, and precision were required. Shurikenjutsu stands out for turning a seemingly simple weapon into a highly effective strategic tool.

This martial art is not limited to throwing, but also encompasses the use of shuriken in hand-to-hand combat, distraction, and as a complement to escape and defense tactics.

Shurikenjutsu emerged during the Muromachi period (1336-1573), although it is believed that the first shuriken-like weapons were already in use in earlier periods. Samurai adopted shuriken as secondary weapons that complemented their main arsenal. Their portability and versatility made them ideal for situations where large weapons were impractical.

During the Sengoku period (1467-1615), when fighting was constant, shuriken were used both to inflict injury and to distract the enemy. In the hands of ninja, these weapons became essential tools for covert missions, offering a significant tactical advantage.

With the arrival of relative peace in the Edo period (1603-1868), Shurikenjutsu evolved as a more refined martial discipline. Various schools (ryuha) incorporated these techniques as part of their training, emphasizing not only precision, but also strategic and combined use with other weapons.

Shurikenjutsu employs several types of shuriken, each with unique characteristics that influence their use and purpose.

• Shape: Straight metal rods between 15 and 20 cm.
• Usage: Direct lance to penetrate deep into the target.
• Purpose: Ideal for medium-range combat or for wounding the enemy before close combat.

• Shape: Flat metal star with multiple points (usually 4 to 8).
• Use: Launched with a spin for greater stability in flight.
• Purpose: Used to cause superficial wounds or distract the opponent.

• Shape: Square metal plate with sharp points at the corners.
• Use: Thrown with rotary movements, ideal for short distances.
• Purpose: To pierce and cause precise damage.

The design and shape of the shuriken varied depending on the school and the strategy of the warrior who used them.

Shurikenjutsu is characterized by a combination of throwing techniques and combat strategies.

1. Shomenuchi (Front Throw): Direct and linear movement towards the objective.
2. Hantenuchi (Reverse Throw): Thrown from a hidden position or with the hand reversed to surprise the enemy.
3. Kaitenuchi (Rotating Throw): Technique that uses a controlled spin of the shuriken to ensure stable and precise flight.
4. Nagedanuki (Multiple Release): Consecutive throwing of several shuriken to overwhelm or confuse the opponent.

• Distraction: Throwing shuriken at nearby objects or the ground to disorient the enemy.
• Hand-to-hand combat: Using the shuriken as a stabbing weapon in close combat.
• Combination with other weapons: Complement the use of swords or daggers with shuriken to maintain distance or take advantage of openings in the opponent's defense.

Shurikenjutsu requires precision, speed and a high degree of control of movement, as an ineffective throw can put the practitioner at a disadvantage.

1. Negishi-ryu: Known for its focus on the bo-shuriken, this school perfected straight and accurate throwing techniques.
2. Kukishin-ryū: It integrates Shurikenjutsu with other traditional weapons such as naginata and kenjutsu, offering a strategic approach in combat.
3. Togakure-ryū: A school of ninjutsu that teaches the use of the hira-shuriken as part of its arsenal of tools for infiltration and distraction.
4. Yagyu Shingan-ryu: It combines Shurikenjutsu with hand-to-hand combat techniques, focusing on defense and counterattack.
5. Enmei-ryu: Specializing in the use of the senban-shuriken, this school emphasizes precision at short distances and integration with body movements.

Each school brings a unique approach to Shurikenjutsu, tailoring it to the tactical needs of its practitioners.

Today, Shurikenjutsu is still practiced as a traditional discipline and a way to hone skills of coordination, concentration and control.

Although shuriken are rarely used in urban contexts, throwing and manipulation techniques can be adapted to everyday objects, such as coins or pens, for self-defense situations.

Shurikenjutsu has gained popularity in martial arts competitions, where participants showcase their ability to strike targets with precision and creativity.

Shuriken have transcended their original function to become a cultural icon, depicted in films, video games and literature. Although fiction often exaggerates its capabilities, the historical and cultural impact of Shurikenjutsu remains relevant.

Shurikenjutsu is a manifestation of cunning and strategy in Japanese martial arts. Their legacy demonstrates how even the smallest weapons can play a crucial role in combat, provided they are handled with skill and precision.

Today, Shurikenjutsu is not only a martial discipline, but also a symbol of the history and creativity of Japanese warriors. Its practice preserves not only the techniques, but also the values ​​of patience, concentration and discipline.