Kunoichi were the female counterparts to male shinobi, or ninjas, in feudal Japan. They originated from the kanji for "woman" and typically fell under two categories: Shimma kunoichi served male commanders as part of a ninja family and underwent sensitivity training, while karima kunoichi worked as lone mercenaries who could gain the trust of targets. One famous historical kunoichi was Mochizuki Chiyome, who created a large kunoichi network in the 16th century by recruiting vulnerable women and training them to infiltrate places disguised as geisha or shrine attendants.

1. Kunoichi クノ一 マカースロレンゾ・スミス ベン・ユル ハンター・ナウシュツ アシュリ・バミボラ

2. What are Kunoichi? Kunoichi are the female counterpart to the male shinobi (popularly named ninja). Originated from the Kanji: 女 or woman. They usually fall under two categories Shimma and Karima. Shimma Kunoichi were part of a ninja family under a male commander (Kantokusha). They were subjected to sensitivity training. Karima Kunoichi were mercenary and lone shinobi. They may have the trust of their targets and make for best business if paid well.

3. Kunoichi in Popular Culture かすみ アヤネ

4. Kunoichi in Popular Culture イブキ かげろ

5. Mochizuki Chiyome Widow to Shogun Mochizuki Moritoki. Left in the care of a Daimyo (Shingen). Subjected to becoming a shinobi. Well known for creating the most successful and biggest Kunoichi network 16 th Century Kunoichi

6. モチズキ・チヨメ Recruited lost, abused, and neglected women. Posed kunoichi as geisha, prostitutes, etc. Instructed kunoichi to travel as Miko (shrine attendants) Vanished in history. Depicted as the teacher to the protagonist in popular media. Red Ninja