1.7-sun Shogi Table Board – Aya National Forest Kaya, Single-piece, Flat-grain cut (back face)

About the Wood

This board is made from kaya grown in the national forests of Aya, Miyazaki Prefecture. Kaya from the Aya area grows slowly in rocky terrain, producing a finely grained wood with excellent color and fragrance. It is among the most prized materials for shogi and Go boards in Japan.

About the Construction

This is a single-plank board, cut directly from one log. Unlike laminated boards, the natural character of the wood appears as it is across the entire surface.

About the Flat Grain

This board is cut in itame, or flat grain — a method where the log is cut toward the outer edge, producing a flowing, curved grain pattern. The back face refers to the side of the plank closest to the outer bark of the log. Compared to straight-grain boards, flat-grain boards have a more expressive, dynamic surface. Because kaya from the Aya national forest is naturally dense and tight-grained, the flat grain here remains composed even with its characteristic movement.

Thickness and Feel

The board is 1.7-sun thick (approximately 5.2 cm). This is a manageable thickness for a table board, well suited to regular daily use.

Aging and Natural Characteristics

The strong reddish tone is the most distinctive quality of this board. The red of Aya kaya carries a quiet depth and warmth. Kaya deepens gradually into a warm amber with use — boards with a reddish base tend to develop particularly rich coloring over time. There are a few small knots, but they do not detract from the overall impression of the board.

Choosing This Board

A single-plank flat-grain board from Aya National Forest kaya — notable for its deep red tone and natural surface movement. For those drawn to the expressive quality of flat grain and the warm coloring of Aya kaya, this is a board worth considering at its price point.

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.