Ninjas are renowned for their stealth, but their disappearance is causing headaches in Japan.
Growing tourism is a good problem to have. However, the increased demand is exposing a ninja shortage in the Asian destination. According to the Independent, a rising number of foreign tourists coming to the country means more desire to see ninja performances.
"With the number of foreign tourists visiting Japan on the increase, the value of ninja as tourism content has increased," Nayoga-based martial arts squad manager Takatsugu Aoki told Japanese newspaper The Asahi Shimbun.
"There are more employment choices, while ninja shows across the country have become popular. I feel there is a ninja shortage."
Though there appears to be plenty of people interested in becoming ninjas, much of that interest exists outside of Japan and there aren't many equipped with the skills to make the proverbial leap. In addition to being trained in unarmed combat, ninjas typically excel at acrobatics, concealment and first aid (no kidding).
Handling swords and throwing stars is also a requirement in some cases.
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"The domestic ninja market is definitely expanding," Japan Ninja Council secretary-general Kunihiro Tateishi told the Asahi.
During recent years ninja-themed villages and restaurants have opened up, increasing demand for qualified ninjas. In an effort to keep up, some squads are advertising positions globally and attempting to entice applicants with promises of monthly salaries as high as $1,600.
In the meantime, ninja-seeking visitors will have to be patient as the country works to bulk up its supply.
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