Tanikage

Tanikage (谷耀影, Valley Shadow) is the title bestowed upon an individual chosen to act as the undisputed leader of Sankyōgakure. To them falls the duty of leading the Village's shinobi in the defense of the Land of Valleys, in addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Village itself. In order to be eligible for the role of Tanikage, a candidate must be worthy of being considered the strongest or most talented shinobi in the whole of Sankyōgakure. From there, their candidacy is affirmed by the prior to the individual's ascension into the role. Thus far, there have been two to hold the title Tanikage; both of which have hailed from the mercenary organization responsible for founding Sankyōgakure.

First Tanikage

 * Main Article: Ayame Miura

The First Tanikage (初代谷耀影, Shodai Tanikage; "First/Founding Valley Shadow) was a woman by the name Ayame Miura. She and the mercenary organization under her leadership were commissioned by the Land of Valleys to instruct its citizens in the art of combat. After many years of fulfilling this task at the aptly-named Gorge Academy, the country then thought it proper to elevate the bustling institution into a full-fledged Hidden Village. Being that she was the Headmistress of the Gorge Academy, Ayame was awarded the title Tanikage and led the village until her eventual retirement twenty-five years later.

Second Tanikage

 * Main Article: Hisashi Hyūga

The Second Tanikage (二代目谷耀影, Nidaime Tanikage; "Second Valley Shadow") was a man by the name Hisashi Hyūga. Quite literally reared as a member of Hagetaka, Hisashi distinguished himself within the organization after years of growth and successful missions in their name. When the Land of Valleys extended to the mercenary company an exceptional offer with an enormous sum of pay, he would go on to become an instructor within the Gorge Academy. Having made a name for himself through instructing both and traditional  alike, Hisashi was amongst the candidates for the mantle of Second Tanikage. His selection was based upon facing and defeating his predecessor in combat.

Trivia

 * Unlike the of the Five Great Nations, the Tanikage do not wear hats bearing elemental kanji.