Every year, Soke Hatsumi chooses a different theme for the year's training. Sometimes it's a Bujinkan school or ryu, sometimes a particular choice of weapon, or sometimes a principle. So far, the themes have been:

• 2008 - Togakure Ryu Ninpo Taijutsu and Ninja Biken
• 2007 - Kukishin Ryu
• 2006 - Shinden Fudo Ryu (Principles of Nature)
• 2005 - Gyokko-ryu Kosshijutsu Happoubiken (Bo and Tachi)
• 2004 - Daishou Juutaijutsu (Roppo-Kuji-no Biken)
• 2003 - Juppo Sessho
• 2002 - Jutaijutsu (Takagi Yoshin Ryu)
• 2001 - Kosshijutsu (Gyokko Ryu)
• 2000 - Koppojutsu (Koto Ryu)
• 1999 - Kukishinden Ryu
• 1998 - Shinden Fudo Ryu
• 1997 - Jojutsu
• 1996 - Bokken
• 1995 - Naginata
• 1994 - Yari
• 1993 - Rokushakubojutsu
• 1992 - Taijutsu Power
• 1991 - Sword and Jutte
• 1990 - Hanbo
• 1989 - Taijutsu and Weapons
• 1988 - Taijutsu