The first hint that early Shogi was played was in the year 1058 after shogi pieces were found at the pagoda of Kafuku-ji. It was thought to originate from the early form of Chinese chess. However, the game was not officially recognized by the Japanese government until 1612 and the rules were then established nationwide. This is why some believe its origin to be around the same time as European chess, approximately 500 years ago. However, from the evidence of the ancient pieces, early Shogi originated far beyond 1612. Now Shogi is played in many countries around the world after being popularized in the 1990’s. Shogi is a popular game in Japan and national tournaments are held annually. Since the shogun, Yoshimune made the game of Shogi all the rage, we now set November 17th as national Shogi Day as this is the date that he set the tournaments in his castle.

The game is played with two players, each with 20 pieces which include 1 king, 1 rook, 1 bishop, 2 gold generals, 2 lances, 2 silver generals, 9 pawns, and 2 knights. Each piece can move in a different pattern, some with the same rules as European chess and some different ones as well. Rather than the elaborately carved pieces you see in chess, Shogi pieces are flat with Japanese calligraphy on them indicating what rank the piece is. Your initial pattern tends to be spread over three lines, always with the same set up as your opponent. Once you are able to move your players into your opponent's three original rows, that piece can be promoted; this will allow the piece to move in different patterns and become more deadly. The aim is to capture your opponent’s king which will ultimately end the game.