Just in time for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics…
Starting today, anyone over the age of 18 can apply for one of six new positions advertised by Japan’s official tourism board. The Job? Professional ninja.
Essentially the Japanese equivalent of the Beefeaters outside Buckingham Palace, the new positions are designed as part of a carefully-crafted PR campaign to promote “warlord tourism”.
Applicants need to have previous combat training and superior physical fitness, and will be paid ¥180,000 ($1,600; £1,100) per month.
It is hoped the new jobs will encourage more interest in – and spending on – the 15th Century Japanese historical trade. Satoshi Adachi, head of the country’s tourism promotion unit, told the BBC:
“Ideal candidates will enjoy being under the spotlight even though he or she is a secretive ninja.”
Recently, several Japanese officials dressed up as ninjas to encourage visitors to learn more about the martial arts masters and the history of the nation.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, you can apply on the official tourist board website. Japanese language skills are a must.
