Senju Clan

The Senju Clan, a renowned shinobi lineage, holds historical significance as the founders of the first shinobi village, Konohagakure, alongside their rivals, the Uchiha Clan. Continuing to shape Konoha's political landscape, the Senju clan remains steadfast in promoting the philosophy of the Will of Fire, influencing the interpretation of the Hokage role. This commitment has seen three Senju members ascend to the prestigious position of Hokage.

## Background

### Founding

The Senju Clan's lineage traces back to Asura, the youngest son of Hagoromo. Asura's descendants eventually split into two branches—the Senju clan and the Uzumaki Clan, both inheriting his formidable life force and chakra. Notably, the Senju clan further diversified with the formation of the Nehorabi clan just before the onset of the warring clans era.

The potency of their chakra materialized as Senju Senjutsu, and under Hashirama Senju's influence, it evolved into the formidable Wood Release. Setting them apart from other shinobi clans, the Senju refused to specialize in a single area, choosing instead to master ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu, creating a versatile skill set to confront various adversaries. This multifaceted proficiency earned them the name "Senju," signifying the "clan with a thousand skills." Their diverse abilities made them the primary rivals of the Uchiha Clan, ultimately quelling their resolve during the Warring States Period.

The Senju clan forged a multi-generational alliance with the Uzumaki clan, known for their exceptional fertility, extended lifespans, and potent chakra. This formidable partnership was characterized by the Uzumaki clan's significant numerical advantage, boasting nearly triple the members of their allies. The Uzumaki clan played a pivotal role in supporting the Senju during this tumultuous era, contributing to their combined strength. Additionally, the Senju clan extended their alliances to include the Ogata Clan, as well as the Ino–Shika–Chō Clans, comprising the Yamanaka Clan, Nara Clan, and Akimichi Clan during this period.

### Konohagakure

During the Warring States Period, the Senju and Uchiha rose to prominence as the most formidable shinobi clans worldwide. Fueled by the ongoing conflicts, nations sought the Senju for their wars, while the Uchiha were hired by their adversaries. The relentless battles deepened the animosity, with each Senju mourning a loved one lost to an Uchiha and vice versa. However, amidst the centuries of strife, Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha, despite their opposing lineages, formed an unlikely friendship as children. United in their disdain for the perpetual violence and death surrounding them, they dreamt of a future where children wouldn't be forced into warfare.

As Hashirama and Madara assumed leadership of their respective clans, Hashirama sought to realize their shared childhood dreams by attempting to broker peace. While there was a growing inclination towards peace among the Uchiha, Madara remained hesitant and opted for a final contest against the Senju. Despite Hashirama emerging victorious, he chose mercy over conflict, offering his own life to end the fighting. Touched by this gesture, Madara agreed to peace. The Senju and Uchiha, now united, collaborated with the Land of Fire to establish a hidden village, Konohagakure. Various clans settled in Konoha, sharing its peaceful vision, influencing the shinobi world.

The villagers elected Hashirama as the First Hokage, Konoha's leader. However, Madara perceived this as a step towards Senju dominance and, in protest, left the village. Despite Hashirama's intention for all villagers, Senju and Uchiha alike, to prioritize Konoha's interests over clan loyalty, subsequent leaders of Konoha were often linked to the Senju, reinforcing Madara's fears.

The Senju clan, once a powerful force, remains a substantial presence within the village, predominantly descended from the legendary Hashirama Senju, with some remnants of the old branch members still contributing to the clan's rich tapestry. The Senju's indelible imprint on Konoha's identity endures through the embodiment of the Senju's revered Will of Fire. This noble philosophy, instilled by the founding members, continues to guide and inspire the inhabitants of Konoha, shaping their principles and fostering a sense of unity among the villagers.

At the helm of Konoha's leadership is Tsunade Senju, the current Hokage and a testament to the enduring influence of the Senju lineage. Meanwhile, Tenzō Senju stands as a noteworthy figure, attaining the rare mastery of Wood Release as the second Senju with this remarkable ability. The emergence of Kannon Senju, the designated heir of the Senju clan, adds a new chapter to the clan's saga. Driven by an ambitious dream to surpass Tobirama Senju, Kannon has become a beacon of potential and aspiration within the village, garnering admiration and optimism from many of her fellow villagers.

However, the fall of Uzushiogakure and Konoha's role in those events have strained the relationship between the main branch Uzumakis and the Senju clan. Despite these challenges, concerted efforts are underway to rebuild their once formidable alliance, working to mend old bonds and forge new connections. The commitment to restoring this partnership underscores the resilience and determination that characterize the Senju clan, ensuring that their legacy continues to shape the destiny of Konoha.

## Abilities

Distinguished by their refusal to confine themselves to a singular specialization, the Senju clan's approach to shinobi arts sets them apart, as they masterfully navigate the realms of ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu. This holistic proficiency, earning them the moniker "Senju" or the "clan with a thousand skills," positions them as formidable opponents, notably countering the Uchiha Clan during the tumultuous era of the Warring States Period.

The inherent abilities of the Senju clan encompass a broad spectrum, with a foundation built on physical and chakra prowess. Marked by enhanced durability, agility, monstrous strength, and impressive speed coupled with unattainable reflexes, Senju individuals can engage in prolonged battles, lasting hours or even days, without succumbing to chakra exhaustion.

Within the realm of ninjutsu, many Senju members specialize, mastering multiple nature transformations, including the three basic ones. Their prowess extends to taijutsu, where they display exceptional skill, with some individuals excelling in Space–Time Ninjutsu, while others demonstrate proficiency in Yang release. Additionally, a notable faction of the clan exhibits prowess in medical ninjutsu, intelligence gathering, world-famous genjutsu usage, and the art of bukijutsu—showcasing expertise in shurikenjutsu, kenjutsu with katana and tanto, and the infusion of chakra into blades for enhanced attributes.

The Senju's connection with the Uzumaki clan manifests in their mastery of fūinjutsu, revealing a deep understanding of sealing techniques and alchemical practices. This diverse skill set includes proficiency in alchemy and potion-making, expanding the Senju's arsenal of abilities.

At the pinnacle of the Senju's unique capabilities lies the revered Senju Senjutsu, an embodiment of their profound connection with nature and spiritual affinity. Unlike other shinobi who require external guidance to access Sage Mode, Senju individuals possess an innate ability to tap into this ancient power. Senju Senjutsu not only grants mastery over Sage Mode but also facilitates the acquisition and manipulation of elemental chakra natures. This intrinsic affinity allows Senju clan members to excel in diverse ninjutsu techniques, showcasing versatility and prowess on the battlefield.

An intriguing facet of Senju Senjutsu lies in its ability to foster a strong sense of unity among clan members. Through heightened spiritual awareness and a unique connection with nature, Senju individuals can detect the chakra signature specific to their clan, enhancing camaraderie within their close-knit community.

While not all Senju individuals utilize Senju Senjutsu, its potential remains a testament to the clan's deep-rooted connection with nature. Lastly, the rare Wood Release Kekkei Tōta, wielded by figures like Hashirama and Tenzō Senju, further demonstrates the clan's exceptional abilities, allowing them to suppress and control Tailed Beasts—an extraordinary testament to their mastery of kekkei genkai.

## Members

### Leaders

* **Sanemasa Senju**: The clan's first known head.
* **Butsuma Senju**: The clan's head during the Warring Clan's period, great-grandchild of Taiyū.
* **Hashirama Senju**: Clan head after his father Butsuma, and was the first Hokage.
* **Negenama Senju**: Clan head after his father Hashirama.
* **Hayama Senju**: The Clan's current leader, became head after his grandfather Negenama.

### Heirs

* **Hashirama Senju**: Butsuma's first born, and designated successor.
* **Negenama Senju**: Hashirama's first born, and designated successor.
* **Kageyama Senju**: Negenama's oldest child, and designated successor.
* **Ryōzama Senju**: Negenama's second oldest child, and designated successor after Kageyama died.
* **Hayama Senju**: Kageyama's oldest child, and Negenama's designated successor after Ryōzama died.
* **Sakuyama Senju**: Hayama's oldest child, and designated successor.
* **Kannon Senju**: Hayama's only living child, and designated successor after her siblings died.

### Alive

☆ = Senju Senjutsu, ✯ = Wood Release, ⍟ = Main Branch

Alive Senju's in age order:

* Hamao ♂
* Hatsumomo ♂
* Kazari ♀
* Itamaru ♂
* Budo ♀
* Tsunade ♀
* Nodokata ♀
* Fuamatsu ♂
* Hayama ♂ - ☆⍟
* Nagone ♂
* Yubiama ♂
* Natsuka ♀
* Maika ♂ - ☆⍟
* Jōkichi ♂
* Fuana ♀
* Akie ♀ - ☆⍟
* Katzamato ♂
* Kemona ♀
* Suketora ♀
* Sanamato ♂
* Toki ♀
* Namaru ♂ - ☆
* Sayori ♀
* Amase ♀ - ☆
* Masamitsu ♂ - ☆
* Aoirama ♂
* Hinawa ♀ - ☆
* Kamara ♂
* Tenzō ♂ - ✯☆
* Komatsu ♀
* Tainoama ♂
* Higashiyama ♂ - ⍟
* Namia ♀ - ⍟
* Kakuyama ♂
* Hyōsuke ♀ - ⍟
* Kannon ♀ - ☆⍟
* Mannon ♀
* Iamaichi ♂
* Kamateru ♂
* Inatsu ♀
* Hatamaso ♂
* Hannon ♀ - ⍟

## Trivia

* Many male Senju's name end in "-ma" (ま), more commonly written using the kanji "間", which can refer to space or a room.
* Although they owe part of their fame as the "Senju clan of the forest" to the Wood Release, Hashirama Senju, and later Tenzō Senju, are the only clan members known to be capable of utilising it.
* The clan's symbol resembles a Vajra, both a symbol and a ritual object present in Buddhism and Hinduism. As a symbol, it represents both indestructible and irresistible force.
* Before settling in Konohagakure, the Senju clan resided on a remote keep surrounded by a forest.