The oldest of the nine traditions, this ryu forms much of the basis for the Ninjutsu techniques taught in the Bujinkan. Togakure Ryu Ninpo includes various punching, throwing and levering techniques. It is known by low and wide stances and also by very strong punches, which are mostly directed towards opponent’s eyes, ears and diaphragm. This system is famous for its use of such weapons as shuko and shuriken. Daisuke Togakure reportedly founded it in the late 1100’s. The emphasis is on escape and spying. Ninjutsu involves the use of little gadgets, espionage, concealment, sabotage, breaking in and escaping, etc. Togakure ryu uses a lot of techniques that incapacitate, often brutally, and is very deceptive. Along with Taijutsu, this school includes the arts of Ken jutsu (sword), So jutsu (spear), Naginata jutsu (halberd), Bo jutsu (sticks), Jutte jutsu (multiple bladed dagger), Tessen jutsu (fan), Ka jutsu (fire), Sui jutsu (water), Onshin jutsu (invisibility) and three school secrets, named Sanpo Hiden, which are Shuko (hand claws), Senban Shuriken (throwing daggers), and Shinodake (bamboo tube for breathing under water).