So you think that Naruto is the only Ninja anime out there for you to enjoy? You are wrong! By Ninja anime, I mean anime that centralises on Ninjas, their “jutsu” or skills and on little else. Of course, animes like Rurouni Kenshin and Tenchi Muyo also has ninjas, but that’s not their main focus.

Hmm.. yeah, which are the animes that feature ninjas as their main theme besides Naruto? Well, let’s wait no more! Kartun now gives you the Top 5 Ninja animes, in random order:

1) Naruto
This Ninja Anime needs no introduction. People from age 5 to 50 know what Naruto is! The 200 over episodes series has become so popular that it has spawned a sequel – Naruto Shippuden. Need I say more? Of course this anime should be on the list

2) Ninja Scroll
Set in the Edo period, this series chronicles the life of Jubei Kibagami as he wanders Japan’s countryside. The anime features various ninja clans, as were popular during that period. The clans are always fighting. Jubei happened to be hired by the Hiruko Clan to protect the Dragon Stone, a sacred treasure. And the story continues from there… Worth watching if you are into ninja histories and stories. But be warned, there’s violence in the anime!

3) Nintama Rantarou
Want some light-hearted ninja humour to tickle your funny bone? Nintama is the answer. Adults may find this a bit childish, as the anime features the everyday adventures of Rantarou and his friends and teachers at Ninja school. They must learn everything a ninja must know, but as for our heroes, money, food or playing are more interesting. IF you want to relax and yet indulge in ninja culture, go for this anime.

4) Jubei Chan: The Ninja Girl
Ah… ninjas in a modern setting. Jiyu Nanohana, an ordinary schoolgirl could transform into a 300 year old Yagyu Jubei with the help of the “Lovely Eyepatch”. As Yagyu Jubei she fights a rival clan is dead set on conquering Yagyu to satisfy an old family grudge. This series is not so serious and is fun to watch, especially when people keep falling in love with Jiyu

5) Basilisk: The Kouga Ninja Scrolls
Based on the novel The Kouga Ninja Scrolls, the story tells of Two ninja clans, Tsubagakure of the Iga and Manjidani of Kouga. For 400 years, the two clans have tried to eradicate each other. You get the drift… Again, be warned! This anime has mature content and violence. Definitely not for the faint-hearted

By the way, minnasan, Happy New Year! I can’t believe that 2007 has gone by so rapidly and it’s already 3 days into 2008. Time sure flies!

Disclaimer: The above list is solely based on Kartun’s personal opinion.