#Japan #Tokyo #Shogi #MyNavi Publishing #Akira Watanabe

Online Talk Event for Akira Watanabe's Comeback

In response to overwhelming demand, Mynavi Publishing has announced an online broadcast of the upcoming talk event titled "My Journey in Shogi: From Debut to Present". This event, celebrating the comeback of renowned shogi master Akira Watanabe, will take place on April 11, 2026, at the Kabukiza Tower. The in-person attendance is already sold out with all 140 seats taken.

Watanabe experienced a severe challenge in his career with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in May 2024, leading to a significant hiatus from competitive play due to surgeries and recovery. Despite returning to the board, he faced additional setbacks, resulting in another break that lasted from September 2025 to March 2026. This event aims to commemorate his resilience and reconnect with fans of the ancient Japanese game of shogi.

During the session, Watanabe will reflect on three pivotal eras in his career: his initial ascent to becoming a titleholder, the emergence of artificial intelligence in shogi, and how these innovations have shaped current strategies within the game. This retrospective will also include detailed analyses of some of his most memorable games from each period.

Event Highlights:

• - Historical Evolution of Shogi: Watanabe will discuss the transformations in shogi throughout his career, focusing on his experiences from his debut to his title captures, and addressing how AI has altered the landscape of the game.
• - Q&A Session: Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with Watanabe during a Q&A segment, where he will answer previously submitted questions from fans.
• - Travel Stories from Female Player Miran Nohara: The event will also feature a segment by shogi player Miran Nohara, sharing her travels across Europe accompanied by vibrant photographs taken during her journey.

Event Details:

• - Event Name: Akira Watanabe's Comeback Commemorative Talk Event "My Journey in Shogi: From Debut to Present"
• - Date and Time: April 11, 2026, from 14:00 to 17:30 (JST)
• - Guests: Akira Watanabe, Miran Nohara
• - Ticket Price: ¥3,300 (¥3,000 + 10% tax)
• - Registration: Mynavi Ticket Sales

Moreover, attendees of the event will have exclusive access to purchase a limited edition fan featuring Watanabe's signature, which will be delivered post-event. The signature fan is priced at ¥19,800 (¥18,000 + 10% tax).

About Mynavi Publishing

Mynavi Publishing, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, aims to enrich both personal and professional lives through knowledge, experience, and community engagement. Founded as a spinoff of Mynavi's publishing wing in October 2015, the company relies on 45 years of publishing expertise to present quality content across various fields including IT, shogi, cultural heritage, and lifestyle.

• - Headquarters: 2-6-3 Hitotsubashi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - CEO: Teruki Kadotake
• - Official Website: Mynavi Publishing

In summary, the online talking event celebrating Akira Watanabe's return serves as a remarkable occasion for fans to witness the evolution of shogi and engage directly with one of its modern masters, all from the comfort of their homes.