Ninjas Ninjas were basically agents of Japan. They worked for pay and were used to espionage and assassination. They used a sword and throwing stars as weapons. They also wore black clothes and a black face-mask to blend into the shadows. Ninjas were also known as “silent assassins”, hired for murder and kidnapping. Many Japanese locals feared the appearance of these warriors. Fun fact: Did you know that a ninja can also be called a shinobi?

Samurai Samurai were brave warriors that served the Shogun, or the Jitos. The Shogun was the leader of Japan, and the Jitos were the leaders of all the separate estates and territories of Japan. Samurai were known as honorable soldiers, and they also maintained order in villages. Unlike Ninjas, Samurai did not work for pay. Fun fact: Did you know that a Samurai can also be called a “bushi”?

Ninjas vs. Samurai Samurai did not work for pay. Samurai worked for the Shogun and Jitos. Combat was straight-forward and honorable. Preferred larger weapons such as a Bow & Arrow, a Samurai Sword, etc. Ninjas Ninjas worked for pay. Ninjas worked for anyone who could provide money. Combat was sneaky and often sly. Preferred smaller weapons such as Ninjas Stars, Daggers, etc.