The Ninja-Proof Floors of 17th Century Japan


(Photo: Zen Garden)

When you lie down to sleep in Edo period Japan, will you wake up in the morning? By the 17th Century, the threat of assassination by ninjas had become serious enough that architects in Japan developed a special alarm system to help aristocrats stay safe.

(Photo: Chris Gladis)

It's called the Nightengale Floor. Here's an example from Nijo Castle in Kyoto. The floorboards are attached to support beams with metal brackets that scrape against each other. When someone steps on the joint, the brackets make a sound like a nightingale chirping.


(Video Link)

As this video demonstrates, it really does sound like a chirping bird. So if you hear this sound late at night, arm yourself.


Newest 3
Newest 3 Comments

My high-frequency hearing is totally shot, and so I actually couldn't hear anything but the lower-register background noises. I guess I'll have to use sonic motion detectors to guard against ninja.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"The Ninja-Proof Floors of 17th Century Japan"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More