Body Replacement Technique

With this technique, one replaces their own body with a block of wood or some other object, the moment an attack lands. This creates an optical illusion, making the enemy think the attack was successful. From this, the user can use the lapse in the enemy's attention to attack or flee from the battlefield. Explosive tags can be attached to the replacement for an added surprise. It's a basic ninjutsu even taught at the Academy, but it's a useful art that can be applied in variety of situations.

Trivia

 * This technique is sometimes referred to as the in other stories (not to be confused with the Empty Cicada Shell Technique, which bears the exact same kanji). This name refers to the empty shell a cicada leaves after molting.
 * In the English Manga, Orochimaru's Body Shedding was said to be his version of this technique.
 * In Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2 Akamaru is seen using this technique, except instead of using a log, he uses a bone.
 * Many users use this technique without hand seals.