Ninja Hattori-kun is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Fujiko F. Fujio, the pen name of Hiroshi Fujimoto. It was first serialized in Kodansha's Bokura magazine from 1966 to 1972, later moving to other publications. The series centers on Hattori, a skilled teenage ninja from Iga who lives in modern-day Japan, protecting his young charge Kenichi Mitsuba from rivals and everyday mishaps using ninja techniques, gadgets, and humor.
The manga blends slapstick comedy with elements of ninja folklore, portraying Hattori and his allies—like the chubby ninja Shintaro and the cute ninja girl Shinzo—engaging in battles against the mischievous Koga ninja clan led by the cat-like Kemumaki. Its lighthearted take on ninjutsu in contemporary settings captivated young readers, emphasizing themes of friendship, loyalty, and clever problem-solving.
Ninja Hattori-kun became one of Fujiko F. Fujio's enduring works, contributing to his legacy alongside Doraemon. It spawned a vast media franchise, influencing children's entertainment in Japan and Asia with its whimsical ninja adventures.
