A ryokan that has witnessed 93 historic shogi games.
Since 1966, Nishiura Onsen-GIMPASO has served as the stage for countless professional shogi matches, earning its reputation as the “Shogi Inn.” Six of shogi’s eight major title matches — all except the Ryuo and Eio championships — have been held here, with 93 games played to date. Fans affectionately call it the “sacred ground of shogi.”
The Shogi Road
The Shogi Photo Gallery: “THE Shogi Road”
Within the ryokan — which has hosted 93 professional shogi title matches, including the Osho and Meijin championships — lies “THE Shogi Road,” a gallery tracing the history of these historic games.
The exhibit features photo panels capturing the intense concentration of professional players at the board alongside candid moments of them relaxing while fishing, as well as calligraphy, sealed moves, and game records contributed by renowned players. It offers a glimpse into the hospitality that has quietly supported so many memorable matches at GIMPASO.
Kochu-an, the Championship Room
Suite Room KOCHU-AN: Stage of Historic Matches
The VIP suite “Kochu-an,” overlooking Mikawa Bay, has served as the setting for numerous title matches. Wrapped in serene Japanese-style tranquility, it offers a fitting stage for players facing each other across the board.
Guests can still stay in this room today, savoring a special experience steeped in the lingering intensity of those historic contests.
Recent Title Match
Hosting Game 3 of the 81st Honinbo Championship
GIMPASO has hosted title matches not only in shogi but in go as well. On June 3, 2026, we welcomed Game 3 of the 81st Honinbo Championship best-of-five series, in which challenger Fukuoka Kotaro 7-dan faced titleholder Ichiriki Ryo Honinbo, drawing professional players, match reporters, and fans from across Japan.
Organized by The Mainichi Newspapers, the Nihon Ki-in, and the Kansai Ki-in. Special sponsorship by Daiwa Securities Group.
Stay Where History Was Made
Experience a room overlooking Mikawa Bay, including the VIP suite Kochu-an, stage of numerous historic title matches.
