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Recently Shogi, or ‘Japanese Chess’,
has been enjoying
a quiet boom internationally, which has given fuel by the
internet. Traditional chess players often become enthusiastic
converts to Shogi with its more complex rules and movement
patterns of pieces. Shogi is not just a game: it encompasses
the unique Japanese attitude in combat - patience, propriety
and respect to the enemy - Rei.
Shoji Segawa is a huge phenomenon in Japan. Originally
a salaryman, he harboured a life-long dream to become
a professional Shogi player. There are, however, extremely
strict rules decreeing that professional status must be achieved
before the age of 26. In 2005, 35 year old Segawa’s bold challenge
to this regulation paid off and the Japan Shogi Association certified
him as a professional player. His campaign gained huge support
from salarymen, the media, the young and old all over Japan and
was regarded as a small revolution in the rigid codes of traditional
society. Segawa will be joined by three top young female players,
Saori Shimai, Hiromi Nakakura, and Kanako Bando, who likewise
challenge the old ways. An introductory talk will be followed by
a demonstration and match. The reception with Japanese sake
and sushi is kindly sponsored by Toshiba of Europe Ltd.
Members’ Priority Booking Period to 1 November then open
to the public. All tickets £5 Tickets available from
Asia House, 63 New Cavendish Street, London W1G 7LP
enquiries@asiahouse.co.uk mailto:enquiries@asiahouse.co.uk
Picture credit: Shogi player Saoi Shimai
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