NINJA TRUTH — Season 1, Episode 13: Ninja Mnemonics

Episode synopsis

The ninja are said to have been capable of remembering extensive details about the estates and castles they infiltrated. To learn how they were able to recall large amounts of information without taking notes, we take a look at some of the mnemonic devices mentioned in ninja documents. In the latter half of the program, we examine torches developed by the ninja. With the help of a pyrotechnician, we recreate a mizukakyo, or water-resistant torch, using ingredients of the time. Join us to see the experiment results!

About NINJA TRUTH

Ninja are now seen in popular media around the world. But as their profile rises, their reality gets muddied amid legends and fantasies. The truth about authentic ninja lies unknown, shrouded in mystery. This program carefully examines the fighting skills and tools used by actual ninja, and conducts experiments to determine the "Ninja Truth".

More episodes from Season 1

• E1Episode 1
• E2Episode 2
• E3Shuriken
• E4Ninja Yashiki
• E5Ninja Fire Arts
• E6Concealed Weapons and Hyorogan
• E7In Search of the Kunoichi, the Female Ninja
• E8Extraordinary Ninja Tools: Kunai and Ikibukuro
• E9Shinobi Rokugu: The Six Essential Tools of the Ninja
• E10Poison and Medicine: The Ninja's Double-Sided Coin
• E11Innin and Yonin: The Yin and Yang of the Ninja
• E12Physical Abilities of the Ninja