Consulate Activities
2026/1/23
Pre-Match Reception for the 1st Game of the 50th Kisei Best-of-Seven Match
Governor Green,Kisei Ichiriki, 10-dan Shibano and DCG Haruta (Yomiuri shimbun)
DCG Haruta delivering remarks for a toast (Yomiuri shimbun)
On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the pre-match reception for the 1st game of the 50th Kisei Best-of-Seven Match was held at the Consul General’s Residence in Honolulu. The Kisei title is the most prestigious competition in the Japanese Go community, representing both the skill and honor of the players. This is the third time the Kisei Match has been held in Hawaii, and the first in 29 years, making it a symbolic occasion for cultural exchange between the local Go community and Japanese professional players.
Approximately 100 guests attended the reception, including Hawaii Governor Josh Green, other state officials, representatives from the Japan America Society of Hawaii, and local Go enthusiasts. Both players, Kisei Ryo Ichiriki and 10-dan Toramaru Shibano, were warmly welcomed with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the importance of Go as a bridge for cultural exchange in Hawaii.
During the players’ statements of intent, Shibano said, “While experiencing the culture of Hawaii, I will do my best in the upcoming match,” and Ichiriki shared his enthusiasm with a touch of humor in English, delighting the audience.
In response, Governor Green, Deputy Consul General Haruta, and others offered words of welcome and encouragement.
The pre-reception also included participation from student Go clubs from the University of Hawaii and Punahou School, making it a valuable opportunity to further strengthen cultural exchange between Japan and Hawaii through the game of Go.
More information about the Kisei title-related news etc. available here (in Japanese).
Approximately 100 guests attended the reception, including Hawaii Governor Josh Green, other state officials, representatives from the Japan America Society of Hawaii, and local Go enthusiasts. Both players, Kisei Ryo Ichiriki and 10-dan Toramaru Shibano, were warmly welcomed with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the importance of Go as a bridge for cultural exchange in Hawaii.
During the players’ statements of intent, Shibano said, “While experiencing the culture of Hawaii, I will do my best in the upcoming match,” and Ichiriki shared his enthusiasm with a touch of humor in English, delighting the audience.
In response, Governor Green, Deputy Consul General Haruta, and others offered words of welcome and encouragement.
The pre-reception also included participation from student Go clubs from the University of Hawaii and Punahou School, making it a valuable opportunity to further strengthen cultural exchange between Japan and Hawaii through the game of Go.
More information about the Kisei title-related news etc. available here (in Japanese).