Kansai Ki-in

The Kansai Ki-in is a professional Go association in Japan that operates independently from the larger Nihon Ki-in. Based in the Kansai region, it serves as a central organization for professional Go players, providing a structured ranking system, hosting tournaments, and promoting Go education.

Originally established as a branch of the Nihon Ki-in before World War II, the Kansai Ki-in became a separate organization in 1947. However, it remained under the Nihon Ki-in’s control until 1950, when a dispute over the Honinbo title led to its full independence. Hashimoto Utaro, the reigning Honinbo at the time, played a key role in securing this separation.

Eventually the Kansai Ki-in has grown into an important institution in Japanese Go, fostering numerous professional players and contributing to the game’s development.

Though smaller than the Nihon Ki-in, the Kansai Ki-in plays a significant role in Japanese Go, continuing to develop strong players and preserve its unique legacy.