#Japan #Tokyo #Shogi #Sota Fujii #Ayasae Hiroshi

Mystery and Chess: A Unique Perspective

In a captivating dialogue, celebrated mystery writer Ayasae Hiroshi engages with Sota Fujii, the reigning Shogi champion, delving into the intricate connections between the worlds of mystery fiction and the strategic game of Shogi. The forthcoming Shogi Almanac 2026, set to launch on August 3, 2026, is embellished with this remarkable interview that attempts to unravel the mental framework of a Shogi prodigy who has captured the imaginations of many.

Ayasae Hiroshi, known for his notable work, The God’s Bad Move, explores the depths of Shogi’s conceptual nuances with Fujii. The discussion covers his experiences during the second game of the 84th Meijin tournament held on April 25 and 26, 2026. With Fujii’s reputation as a strategic genius, the interview promises not just to provide insights into his thought patterns but also to reveal the human side of the champion.

One intriguing topic raised by Hiroshi during their conversation revolves around the similarities between creating a compelling mystery and composing a challenging Shogi puzzle. In particular, he notes the mental processes of working backwards and forwards, as both require a delicate balance between logical structuring and narrative progression.

Fujii acknowledges this connection, stating, “When I create Shogi puzzles, I often employ a backwards approach. However, truly outstanding puzzles masterfully blend both backward and forward reasoning.” This reflective response showcases Fujii’s understanding of the artistry behind both Shogi composition and storytelling.

As the hour-and-a-half session continues, the dialogue meanders through Fujii’s perspectives on motivation, his values associated with victory, and even his favorite ice cream flavors. The exchange is poised to be a profound read, rich in revelations about how a champion’s mind operates on and off the board.

The allure of Shogi, according to Fujii, lies in its foundational beauty and logical richness. He passionately declares, “I was captivated by how Shogi expresses its inherent beauty through logical expression.” This insight encapsulates the complexities of the game that both novice and experienced players find mesmerizing.

In conjunction with the printed interview, which will be fully published in the Shogi Almanac 2026, readers can anticipate exclusive sketches and insights that give life to Fujii’s journey as a player. The almanac, a cornerstone publication of the Japan Shogi Association since 1968, will feature extensive coverage of numerous championship matches, including all the crucial encounters from the 84th Meijin tournament, totaling over 500 recorded competitions.

Furthermore, a premium edition of the almanac will include acrylic stands featuring both the late Kato Ichimaku and Sota Fujii, providing collectors with a unique piece of Shogi memorabilia.

The almanac will be priced at 6,050 yen for the standard edition and 8,800 yen for the deluxe version, making it an essential addition to the libraries of Shogi enthusiasts.

In summary, the Shogi Almanac 2026 not only serves as a repository of Shogi history but also as a platform that bridges storytelling and strategic thought, exemplified through the notable interview with Sota Fujii and Ayasae Hiroshi.

For more information on the almanac’s release and to pre-order, visit MyNavi Publishing for the standard version and MyNavi Publishing for the deluxe edition. This publication is a testament to the evolving narrative of Shogi, enriching both players and readers alike.