Otomo no Sahito | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | Japan |
| Employer | Prince Shotoku |
| Known for | Shinobi (Ninja) |
Otomo no Sahito (大伴細人) was a figure inJapanese history believed to be a spy orshinobi who servedPrince Shōtoku in the 7th century. While his existence is debated, some consider him to be the first ninja in history, though others suggest he might be amythical figure. While widely undocumented, there is evidence going both ways of being real and a fictionalfolklore character.[1]
Sahito is depicted as a key figure in the early development ofninjutsu, serving as a spy for Prince Shotoku in the 7th century. He is often cited as one of the first, if not the first, ninja in history. Despite some historical accounts suggesting he might be a mythical figure, he's credited with developingespionage techniques and a spy network for Prince Shotoku. These techniques are believed to have influenced the later development of ninjutsu.[citation needed]