7.25-sun Go Floor Board – Aya National Forest Kaya, Single-piece, Flat-grain cut (back face)

About the Wood

This board is made from a single plank of kaya grown in the national forest of Aya, Miyazaki — a mountainous region with dramatic seasonal temperature swings and steep, rocky terrain. These conditions slow the growth of the trees considerably, producing exceptionally fine annual rings and a high concentration of resinous, reddish heartwood. The result is a board with deep color, a dense surface, and a sound when stones are placed that is unlike lighter or younger wood.

About the Construction

This board is cut from a single log. There are no joints. The wood appears across the surface as it grew — continuous, uninterrupted.

About the Flat Grain

This board is cut in itame, or flat grain — taken from the outer part of the log, closer to the bark. The grain moves in broader, more dynamic patterns than straight-grain boards. Combined with the red tone of Aya kaya, the surface has a bold, natural presence.

Thickness and Feel

The board is 7.25-sun thick (approximately 22.0 cm). This is among the deepest measurements for a floor Go board. At this thickness, placing a stone does not simply make a sound — the board responds. The resonance is full and slow to fade. There is a quality to boards of this depth that is difficult to put into words and impossible to replicate in a thinner piece.

Included Set

This board comes with two additional pieces made by craftsmen in Miyazaki. The Go stones are Mexican clam shells, size 38 (a practical-grade set, valued at approximately ¥100,000). The Go bowls are extra-large Hyuga kaya (valued at approximately ¥120,000). Together with the board, they form a complete set from the hands of Miyazaki craftsmen.

Choosing This Board

Aya kaya. A single plank over seven sun thick. Flat grain from the outer face of the log. Each of these is uncommon on its own; together, they are rare. For those considering this board, we recommend seeing it in person if at all possible.

Each board is one of a kind.
Please contact us before placing an order to confirm availability.
For orders shipped outside Japan, customs duties or local taxes may be charged upon delivery depending on the destination country.