Discover the World of Shogi – Japanese Chess Workshop - Photos

On 11 and 12 October 2025, The Japan Society proudly hosted Discover the World of Shogi, a landmark workshop led by Yasushi Ishikawa, a certified Teaching Professional 4-dan. Held over two days, the event featured two beginners’ sessions and one mid-advanced session, welcoming an unprecedented number of participants—the largest beginner-focused shogi workshop ever held in Europe.

 

Attendees explored the rich history and strategic depth of shogi, a traditional Japanese board game often compared to chess but with unique features such as piece promotion and the drop rule. The beginners’ sessions offered bite-sized lessons and friendly matches, with each participant receiving a portable shogi board and pieces to take home. The mid-advanced session focused on tactical development through lectures and guided play.

 

We are grateful for the generous support from Blick Rothenberg, the Japan Shogi Association, and the London Shogi Club. We would also like to thank Yasushi Ishikawa, Kohtaro Hirota, Tetsuaki Sanada, Steven Cain, and Kevin Butchart for their kind support and enthusiasm throughout the event.

 

This workshop was a resounding success, sparking interest and building community around this fascinating and culturally significant game.