Togakure Ryu Suiton no Jutsu

The Art of Water Evasion (Suiton no Jutsu)

These are methods that the Togakure Ryu shinobi had for using water to deceive, attack, or escape from enemies. It included swimming, underwater infiltration, and the use of poisons, breathing tubes, boats, and flotation devices. This is strongly tied to swimming/ water techniques (Suijutsu). Suiton also included covering oneself in water plants as camouflage. The shinobi could throw a rock at a clay water basin (Mizugame) to shatter the basin sending water everywhere. Mizugame could also be used to hide in. The Art of Boiling Water Evasion (Tohton no Jutsu) from the Tenchijin Santon.

Poisonous Water Pistol Method (Doku Mizu Teppo no Ho)

These are methods for using the mizu teppo. The mizu teppo would be filled with water that had been mixed with chili powder, vinegar, or lemon juice (anything spicy or corrosive). Traditionally, one of the things that was used was the poison from blow-fish which would cause blindness and even death when squirted in an enemy's eyes. The main purpose of the mizu teppo was to use it as a sight destroyer or metsubushi. After using it, the shinobi could escape or kill the enemy.

Deceptive Disturbance Method (Gi Hen Kaku Ran no Ho)

These are methods that the Togakure Ryu shinobi had for escaping from an enemy that was chasing him while he was near to a river, stream, or pond. The shinobi would pick up a large rock or tree branch and throw it into the water. The shinobi would immediately head in the opposite direction and hide. While the enemy investigated the water, the shinobi could escape or kill him. In Volume III of the Bansenshukai there is a story about a young thief who uses this method to escape from his pursuers.

Water-Spider Method (Mizugumo no Ho)

These are methods that the Togakure Ryu shinobi had for using flotation devices to infiltrate enemy territories. The shinobi would sit on the board in the middle of the mizugumo raft, allowing his legs to dangle in between the ropes that tie the board to the skins. The shinobi would use his legs like a duck to help him keep his balance. The inflatable pelts of the mizuguma could be deflated and the device rolled up so that it could easily be carried. One tool used with the mizugumo was the kamayari. The pole could be used to ferry the ninja along and the hooks could be used to pull the shinobi to shore. Another tool used with the mizugumo was the shinobi-gai or ninja-paddle. The weighted chain of the shinobi-gai could be used to catch onto branches in order to bring the mizu gomu to shore. The shinobi-gai could also be used as a weapon.

Underwater Tool Method (Suichu Ki no Ho)

These are methods the shinobi had for using bamboo for snorkeling. The suichuki could be used for breathing underwater (snorkeling), like a horn for signalling, and, as a last resort, a weapon. The shinobi could use it as a snorkel by placing one end in his mouth, using the hand holding the snorkel to his mouth to plug his nose, and laying back into the water. The ninja would use his free hand to push water upward or hold onto something to keep himself from rising to the surface. By using this method, the shinobi could allegedly stay submerged for twelve hours. The shinodake could be used the same way.

 

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