#Japan #Tokyo #Inokuma #Takumi Ito #AI Relations

Groundbreaking Discussion on AI and Human Relationships in Games

On October 18, 2026, the Electric Communication University will host a unique and insightful discussion featuring two of Japan's leading board game masters: Yuki Inokuma, a top Go player, and Takumi Ito, a rising star in Shogi. This special event, titled "Young Top Players Living in the AI Era: The New Relationship Between Humans and AI," aims to explore how AI has changed the landscape of traditional games and the implications for society at large.

In the past decade, since the rise of the Go AI "AlphaGo" in 2016, the world of board games has transformed dramatically. Both Inokuma and Ito have witnessed this evolution firsthand. They will share their experiences on how AI has become a crucial aspect of their learning processes, creativity, and competitive mindset. The event also seeks to engage the audience in a critical conversation about the changing roles of AI in human cognition and skill development.

As the use of AI in board games has become mainstream, the question arises: what kind of relationship do players have with AI? Is it a teacher, a tool, or a rival? Inokuma and Ito will discuss their perspectives on how AI functions in their games and training, comparing their experiences in the distinct realms of Go and Shogi.

Both players have been at the forefront of adapting to AI's capabilities. With increasing AI potential, they will address how these advanced programs have impacted their skill sets and strategic thinking. Additionally, the discussion will touch on the lessons learned from board games that can be applied to broader fields, such as education, research, and creative endeavors in our AI-driven society.

The emergence of superhuman AI challenges players to rethink their strategies—not just in games, but also in understanding one's own humanity and what it means to be creative. The discussion promises to provide meaningful insights into how AI can amplify skill sets while highlighting unique human attributes that machines cannot replicate.

As participants in this dialogue, the audience will have the opportunity to reflect on their own relations with technology and AI and how they might adapt to or coexist with these tools in their personal and professional lives. What does the future hold for humans in this AI-defined landscape? Inokuma and Ito's insights will pave the way for understanding the evolving human experience in an AI-enhanced world.

Mark your calendars for this compelling event that will last from 14:00 to 16:00 at the UEC Aflac Hall, with doors opening around 13:30. The event will be moderated by Takashi Ito, a professor specializing in information and network engineering, ensuring a lively exchange of ideas.

Event Details:

• - Date: October 18, 2026
• - Location: Electric Communication University, Aflac Hall
• - Speakers: Yuki Inokuma (Go Player) and Takumi Ito (Shogi Player)
• - Moderator: Takashi Ito (Professor)

For more information, to register, and to view the event program, please visit our official event page: AI Era Top Players Event.

This event is organized by the Electric Communication University’s Entertainment and Cognitive Science Research Station, with support from the Japan Go Association. Join us for this fascinating discussion that bridges the gap between tradition and technology in pursuit of excellence in board games and beyond.