By Peter Schumer
The Nihon Ki-in Summer Go Camp was held from August 20 – 29 at the Nihon Ki-in headquarters in Ichigaya, Tokyo. Twelve nations were represented by some thirty participants of all playing levels, with almost a third hailing from the United States and Sweden with four or five players each. The camp was a great success and each year the organizers pack in more activities and events to add to its appeal. There are daily league games for both kyu and dan-level players, informative lectures from top pros, pro simuls, and some friendship matches with local amateurs, as well as evening outings to various go salons. Some of the guest lecturers included Ishida Yoshio, Takemiya Masaki, Antii Tormanen, Kobayashi Chizu, Xie Yimin, and the always popular Michael Redmond.
One outstanding highlight was watching the finals of the World Pair Go Championships held at a hotel in the lively Shinjuku district of Tokyo where several of us got to rub shoulders with the likes of Iyama Yuta and Cho Chikun. Another special event was spending a few minutes sitting close to the players in the first game of the Meijin Championship at the stylish Chinzanso Hotel. The players this year were the defending champion Cho U and the young challenger Shibano Toramaru.
I should add that the base price for the camp is extremely modest (about $150), but you can pay extra (silver and gold level) which includes some perks such as a special banquet and several additional simuls and lessons. And despite all the go events, there is actually plenty of time for leisure activities and sightseeing. The camp has a warm and friendly atmosphere and you can’t help but improve your play at least a little bit. I highly recommend it.
