Professional shogi player
しょうぎきし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A professional shogi player belongs to the Japan Shogi Association, participates in official tournaments to conduct professional shogi matches, and engages in research and promotion activities.
Description
Professional shogi players are affiliated with the Japan Shogi Association, advance to professional status after promotion to 4-dan via the Shoreikai, and compete in official tournaments. In matches, they analyze positions and construct tactics to vie for victory. They also study game records to learn joseki and the latest tactics, provide kifu commentary, create tsume shogi, and conduct lectures, instruction, writing, and other promotion activities. In recent years, online matches and AI analysis have also become more prevalent.
Future Outlook
Advancements in AI technology are diversifying research methods. Online tournaments and internationalization are progressing, with changes expected in professional players' income structures.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Curious and inquisitive / Highly competitive / Patient
Work Style
Agency affiliation / Lecture events / Matches / Media appearances / Self-employed
Career Path
Shoreikai entry → Promotion to professional 4-dan → Title match challenger/winner → Promotion activities after retirement
Required Skills
Concentration / Endgame strength / Opening theory / Tsume shogi
Recommended Skills
AI analysis / Coaching and commentary skills / Kifu management / Media handling
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | To read complex positions and logically determine the best move. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because even a slight reading error can determine the outcome. |
| Creativity & Ideation | To devise original tactics and tesuji. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | To continuously learn joseki and the latest tactics. |
| Problem Solving | Problem-solving ability is needed to find the best move in complex positions. |
| Stress Tolerance | Mental fortitude is required to endure long matches and pressure. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Collaboration & Teamwork | As it is an individual sport, opportunities for teamwork are limited. |
Related Qualifications
- Japan Shogi Association 4-dan
Aliases
- Professional player
Related Jobs
- Chess player
- Go professional
- Shogi promotion instructor