Kunoichi

A female shinobi was referred to as a Kunoichi. These specialists operated in a variety of roles, often being recruited or brought into service due to their occupation, location or discretion. 

Like other cultures, women did not play very prominent roles in feudal Japanese society. Women of noble birth had certain rights and privileges, but generally women were considered lower class citizens. 

Although women did not hold the same power as men, they were integral to feudal Japanese society and some groups like the Geisha (female entertainer) were well respected and held a special place among those that served the Lords and Samurai. 

Due to their position in feudal Japanese society, women would often have greater access to sensitive information or valuable locations compared to male shinobi. This made them effective agents in a variety of situations and there were even times in Japanese history when women were specifically trained as spies.

Unlike other martial arts, the Bujinkan has schools, techniques and strategies specially designed for women. In fact the Bujinkan may be the only martial art in the world that caters specifically to females. 

In recent years there has been a great emphasis placed on female Bujinkan practitioners by the Soke, Hatsumi Masaaki. Whether for self-defense, fitness or fun, Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu is one of the most effective martial arts for women in the world.