JAPANESE CHESS • SHOGI
将
棋
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Shōgi – Japanese Chess
Rules, Strategies, and Community
Shōgi (将棋), also known as the Game of Generals or Japanese Chess, is an ancient traditional game widely played in Japan, originating from the Indian Chaturanga, just like Western Chess. Shogi.cloud is divided into sections to introduce the game from a cultural perspective, teach how to play, and later explore various tactical and strategic aspects. You can also find references to professional players, major Japanese titles, and international amateur tournaments.
Most pages on this site are available in Italian, English, and Japanese. The language structure is indicated in the menu, which organizes the site by language and contains all the pages.
Shōgi has a specific terminology, even in Japanese, which is often adapted in translated languages. If you find any typos or errors, feedback is welcome to improve the readability of the site.
The game instructions pages contain images created specifically for Shogi.cloud, some of which are shared with the predecessor site www.pegli.com/shogi/ to better illustrate the game mechanics.
On this site, you can:
- Get introduced to Japanese Chess through the beginner’s guide and Shōgi rules;
- Learn about the pieces, or kōma (駒);
- Deepen your knowledge of defense through castles, or gakoi (囲い);
- Explore the main openings, jōban (序盤), and advanced strategies;
- Study the best standard moves, or jōseki (定跡);
- Discover the world of Shōgi, especially in its homeland, Japan;
- Find major online platforms to play and their respective communities.
Suggestions and corrections are always welcome to improve the service for Shōgi enthusiasts.
Do you want to learn the rules of Shōgi? Do you want to improve your strategies and tactics? Read the content, join the community, and enhance your skills by playing against experienced players.
News
Londra • London
ロ
ン
ド
ン
english
May 2025 Tournament and Teaching Event
Event Information (3 – 4 May 2025)
The London Shogi Club will host a Shogi Event on 3-4 May 2025. This event is open to players of all abilities and of all nationalities.
We will be joined by Nihon Shogi Renmei/Japanese Shogi association teaching professionals Yasushi Ishikawa and Sanada Tetsuaki.
It will be a combined Tournament and Teaching Event. The main tournament will be hosted on Saturday 3rd May, with Sunday 4th May having a teaching focus – though we will also have a smaller blitz tournment.
We will also be arranging a dinner on the Saturday night. Please let us know if you wish to attend this when you register to help us plan numbers.
Game Set – Buying Guide
set di gioco • shogi set
将
棋
セ
ッ
ト
english
Abstract
A guide to purchasing a shōgi set, the traditional Japanese board game. From budget-friendly solutions for beginners—such as foldable plastic sets with magnetic pieces—to handcrafted wooden sets with lacquered engravings and traditional boards. The text analyzes materials, character engraving techniques (stamped, carved, lacquered), styles, and price ranges. Includes links to reliable international and Japanese retailers, with warnings about shipping costs and customs duties. Ideal for those who want to start playing or improve the quality of their set, avoiding buying mistakes and choosing based on their level and needs.
Important note: the links on the page are not advertisements; they are provided solely as examples of shōgi sets.
Kinshō (金将) in Shōgi (将棋)
駒 • こま • koma
金
将
english
Abstract
The Kinshō (金将) is one of the fundamental pieces in Shōgi (将棋), with a well-balanced movement that makes it essential in both offense and defense. Unlike many other pieces, it cannot be promoted, ensuring a stable role throughout the game. In defensive strategies, it is often used in Gakoi (囲い) to protect Ōshō (王将) and Gyokushō (玉将), while in offense, it is a key piece for applying pressure and delivering checkmate. Its strategic importance makes it a crucial element in every game of Shōgi.
Tokin (と金) in Shōgi (将棋)
駒 • こま • koma
と
金
english
Abstract
The Tokin (と金) is the promoted form of the Fuhyō (歩兵) in Shōgi (将棋), gaining the movement abilities of the Kinshō (金将). This promotion significantly increases the “strength” of the koma (駒), making it highly important in tactical play. The representation of the Tokin with the character “と” emphasizes its connection to the concept of “gold” in the game.
Fuhyō (歩兵) in Shōgi (将棋)
駒 • こま • koma
歩
兵
english
Abstract
The Fuhyō (歩兵) is the most numerous and fundamental piece in Shōgi (将棋), with simple movements but a crucial strategic role, especially when promoted to Tokin.
The specific rules concerning it add tactical depth to the game.
Its name, derived from the kanji “walk” and “soldier,” signifies its function as infantry in the game.
Shōgi organizations
(NSR – FESA – AIS: international recognitions in Italy
english
Abstract
The Italian Shōgi Association (AIS) is the only organization recognized in Italy by the Nihon Shōgi Renmei and the Federation of European Shogi Associations.
Only the Italian Shōgi Association has been organizing the Italian Shōgi Championship since 1999, and in person, to ensure the authenticity of the association and the regularity of play.
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Thank you
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