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Nihon Ki-in facts for kids

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Nihon Ki-in Headquarter (2016-05-05) 5
Nihon Ki-in Headquarter, in Chiyoda, Tokyo

The Nihon Ki-in (日本棋院), also known as the Japan Go Association, is the main group for the game of Go in Japan. It helps manage the system for professional Go players. It also gives out special certificates, called diplomas, to skilled amateur players who reach certain dan ranks. The Nihon Ki-in is based in Tokyo. Another important Go group in Japan is the Kansai Ki-in.

The Nihon Ki-in has created new ways to play and learn Go. For example, they started the Oteai system for players to move up in rank. They also introduced time limits for professional games. Plus, they were the first to give diplomas to strong amateur players to confirm their skill levels.

History of the Nihon Ki-in

The Nihon Ki-in was started in July 1924. Its first president was Makino Nobuaki, who was a big supporter of Go. Okura Kishichiro was the vice president. Most professional Go players at that time joined this new organization. Only a few groups, like the Inoue faction in Osaka, did not join right away.

A small group called Kiseisha briefly broke away from the Nihon Ki-in. But most of those players returned within a couple of years. Later, in 1950, the western part of the Nihon Ki-in separated. This group then formed the Kansai Ki-in.

Exciting Go Tournaments

The Nihon Ki-in organizes many exciting tournaments for professional Go players. These tournaments are where the best players compete for important titles.

The biggest title tournaments include:

  • Kisei
  • Meijin
  • Honinbo
  • Judan
  • Tengen
  • Gosei
  • Oza

There are also special Honinbo, Meijin, and Kisei titles just for women players.

Where the Nihon Ki-in is Located

The Nihon Ki-in has several offices and Go centers. These places help people learn and play Go.

Here are some of their main locations:

  • Tokyo Headquarters: This is in Ichigaya, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.
  • Tokyo Yurakucho Igo Center: Located in the Tokyo Kotsu-Kaikan building in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.
  • Osaka Headquarters: Found in the Applause Tower in Osaka.
  • Osaka Umeda Igo Salon: Located in the Hankyu Five Annex Building in Osaka.
  • Chubu Headquarters: This office is in Higashi-ku, Nagoya.
  • The Nihon Ki-in European Go Cultural Centre: This center is in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
  • Nihon Ki-in Do Brasil: Located in São Paulo, Brazil.
  • Nihon Ki-in Go Institute of The West U.S.A.: This institute is in Seattle, Washington, USA.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Nihon Ki-In para niños

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