6.25-sun Shogi Floor Board – Kyushu Kaya, Single-piece, Straight-grain cut

About the Wood

This board is made from a single plank of kaya grown in Kyushu. Kaya has long been used for shogi and Go boards, valued for its elasticity and the clear tone it produces when pieces are placed. The playing surface is straight-grained and free of knots.

About the Construction

This is a single-plank board, cut from one log. Without seams or joins, the surface ages as a whole — one continuous face deepening in color over years of use.

About the Straight Grain

This board is cut in masame, or straight grain — a method where the log is cut toward its center, producing parallel lines running the length of the board. The grain moves evenly across the full surface, giving the board a composed and settled appearance.

Thickness and Feel

The board measures 6.25-sun (approximately 18.9 cm). It is a substantial floor board with the presence and stability that this thickness provides. The kaya elasticity comes through clearly when pieces are placed — grounded, responsive, unhurried.

About the Blue Staining

There is blue staining along the end grain and side of the board. This is a natural mark: moisture entered the wood during its growth and left a discoloration that remained as the tree matured. It does not spread after the board is completed, and it does not affect the playing surface. Kaya deepens gradually to a warm amber tone with use, and as the surrounding wood changes over time, the staining becomes less distinct and eventually blends into the whole.

Choosing This Board

Single-plank, straight grain, no knots on the playing surface — the board is sound where it matters most. The blue staining on the end grain and side is this board’s honest characteristic. For those who can accept that it will fade with time rather than requiring it to be absent from the start, this is a floor board worth serious consideration within its price range.

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.