The widely popular anime and manga series Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto, follows the journey of a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki as he navigates the world of shinobi and strives to become the strongest ninja in his village. For fans of the series, the intricate and mesmerizing hand seals are an integral part of the mystical ninja arts portrayed in the story. Did you know that you can practice and use the Naruto hand seals in real life? At Nijigen no Mori, an anime theme park located on Awaji Island, you can visit the Naruto village and engage in this exciting experience.
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Exploring the Art of Hand Seals in Naruto
Hand seals play a significant role in the practice of ninjutsu (ninja techniques) in the Naruto universe. They are a series of intricate hand movements that are used to channel chakra, the energy source within a ninja, to execute various jutsu (skills/techniques). These hand seals are crucial in performing a wide array of abilities, from simple techniques to more complex and powerful jutsu.
There are different types of hand seals in Naruto, each comprised of specific hand formations that require precise movements and timing. These seals are based on the Chinese zodiac and elemental signs, with each technique associated with a unique set of hand seals.
All Hand Seals in Naruto
Boar (亥, I) – This seal is made by placing both fists together facing downward.
Dog (戌, Inu) – This seal is made by putting the left hand flat on the right hand fist.
Dragon (辰, Tatsu) – The hands clasp together, almost fully intertwining the fingers, but with both pinky fingers pointing downward and both thumbs pointing upward.
Horse (午, Uma) – Both elbows are out and index fingers form a triangle.
Monkey (申, Saru) – This seal is formed by putting the surface of both hands together (right hand on top).
Rat (子, Ne) – This seal is made by the right hand fingers holding the left hand’s index and middle fingers (left thumb on the outside)
Snake (巳, Mi) – Hands are put together and the fingers are intertwined facing upward.
Tiger (寅, Tora) – Both index fingers pointing upwards, and the middle fingers, ring fingers, and pinky fingers intertwined.
Ox (丑, Ushi) – Right hand is horizontal and left hand is vertical. Left hand’s index and pinky face upward.
The effectiveness of jutsu often depends on the accuracy, speed, and sequence of the hand seals performed. The combinations of these seals and the corresponding chakra manipulation enable shinobi to unleash a wide range of techniques in the Naruto series.
Practicing Jutsu Using Hand Seals at Nijigen no Mori
An anime theme park Nijigen no Mori allows Naruto enthusiasts to experience the thrill of practicing and implementing hand seals firsthand. The park features NARUTO&BORUTO SHINOBI-ZATO, an attraction dedicated to the world of Naruto, offering visitors the opportunity to engage in activities that showcase the essence of being a ninja. Within SHINOBI-ZATO, visitors can participate in interactive experiences and learn the art of hand seals during various ninja-related activities.
In the Naruto series, the Heaven Scroll featured hand seals prominently during the Chuunin exam. This revered scroll becomes a pivotal element at the park where visitors are presented with their own scroll upon entry. As participants go through different locations, they collect stamps of different Naruto characters. However, the true test awaits at specific locations where sealed doors stand as obstacles. To progress, participants must adeptly perform intricate hand seal combinations, mirroring the techniques from Naruto, to unlock these doors and proceed to the next stages of their quest.
You can also enjoy the park by utilizing the free dedicated smartphone app “Aim for the Hokage!” at designated AR spots across the area. With this app, you will be able to capture photos and videos that simulate the experience of performing actual ninjutsu techniques. Perform the hand seals and try achieving mastery in five distinct ninjutsu elements!
Explore “Konoha” at Nijigen no Mori
SHINOBI-ZATO mirrors Konoha village from the Naruto series, offering a range of activities that immerse visitors in the shinobi world. Within this park, guests can navigate a 3D maze, mission rallies, try a bowl of Ichiraku ramen, and solve puzzles. The missions involve repairing disrupted chakra seals and fulfilling specific objectives detailed in scrolls. It is a fully immersive experience designed for fans and visitors, allowing them to submerge themselves in the thrilling universe of Naruto and Boruto.
©岸本斉史 スコット／集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ
| Park Name | NIJIGEN NO MORI |
|---|---|
| Address | 2425-2 Kusumoto, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-2301 |
| TEL | 0799-64-7061 |
| Website | https://nijigennomori.com/ |
| Reservations | https://ticket.nijigennomori.com/en/ |
| Operation Hours | Everyday10:00-22:00 *Each attraction has a different last reception time and closing time. |
