Discover the legend of Honinbo Shusaku, the undefeated "Saint of Go" who dominated 19 consecutive Castle Games against Edo-period Japan's strongest players. This gripping tale reveals his near-loss against the brilliant drunkard Ito Matsukaze, his strategic mastery of the famous "1-3-5" opening, and his epic 20-game match with samurai-player Sekiyama Sendayu - all before his tragic death at 33. A story of perfection, rivalry, and the ultimate price of genius.

The tragic tale of Shusaku, the Saint of Go—a prodigy whose genius surpassed even the legendary Four Sages, yet who never claimed the Meijin title. From his early mastery to the immortal Ear-Reddening Game against Genan Inseki, this is the story of a man destined for greatness, only to be denied by fate. A must-read for Go enthusiasts and lovers of untapped potential.

In the twilight of Edo Japan, Honinbo Shuwa stood on the brink of becoming Meijin—the highest title in Go. But as rivalries flared and politics poisoned the board, his bid was quietly buried beneath backroom resistance and national crisis. This post traces the final chapter in Shuwa’s pursuit of the Meijin title, the enemies he faced, and the moment history looked away.

In this gripping continuation of the Inoue house’s turbulent legacy, we follow the tragic downfall of Inoue Shuutetsu—once a promising heir, now remembered for one of Go history’s darkest incidents. From his isolation in a rival house to his shocking breakdown and the unprecedented murder of his own disciple, this post chronicles the unraveling of a man and the political chaos that followed. A story of ambition, disgrace, and the fragile line between genius and madness.

The final years of Inoue Genan Inseki (幻庵因碩), the defiant Go master who challenged the Honinbo dynasty, penned ethical codes, and attempted a daring voyage to China. A story of unyielding principle, political courage, and the last stand of Edo-era.

This post recounts the haunting final chapter of Genan Inseki’s struggle for supremacy. After suffering multiple defeats and personal betrayals, Genan turns inward, seeking redemption through a disciple whose life is tragically cut short. It’s a story of ambition, grief, and quiet surrender—the closing act of one of Go history’s most brilliant and tormented figures.

The epic clash between Honinbo Shuwa (秀和) and Genan Inseki (幻庵因碩)—a battle of wits, blood, and legacy. Witness the 9-day 'Sacrificial Game' that shook Edo-era Go, as the young prodigy outmaneuvers the veteran master in a duel for the ages.

"The dramatic fall of Honinbo Jōwa (丈和), the ruthless Meijin whose betrayal of allies led to his downfall. As Hayashi Motoyoshi (林元美) exposes his secrets, a new rivalry ignites between Gen'an Inseki (幻庵因碩) and Jōwa's heir, Honinbo Shūwa (秀和). A tale of power, deception, and vengeance in Edo-era Go history."

The tragic duel between Honinbo Jouwa (丈和) and Akaboshi Inseki (赤星因彻)—a battle of pride, politics, and sacrifice. When Genan Inseki (幻庵因碩) seeks revenge through his prodigy, the match becomes a deadly test of will. A haunting tale from Edo-era Go history.

In Part 2 of the Four Houses, One Throne series, the political battle intensifies as Honinbo Jouwa and Genan Inseki enter a game far more ruthless than Go itself. With alliances shifting and betrayals unfolding behind closed doors, Jouwa makes a calculated move to secure the Meijin title before his rivals can act. As Genan’s schemes unravel and Chitoku is sidelined, the throne is claimed—but not without cost. This is the story of ambition, deception, and the final move in one of the most dramatic power struggles in Japanese Go history.

The struggle for the Meijin title erupts into a political battlefield in the late Edo period. As Honinbo Jouwa (丈和) maneuvers for power, a new rival emerges—Genan Inseki (幻庵因碩), a brilliant tactician from the Inoue house. Backroom deals, strategic betrayals, and ambitious promises define this high-stakes chapter of Go history. Dive into the first half of a two-part saga where the game was no longer just about stones—it was about legacy.

In one of the fiercest battles of the Edo era, Honinbo Jouwa and Yasui Chitoku fought not just for prestige—but for dominance in a golden age of Go. From blistering castle games to a legendary grudge match that nearly ended in collapse, this chapter captures the genius, ego, and quiet desperation of two giants colliding. No fanfare. No second chances. Just blood and stones.