On December 17, the atmosphere at the Kansai Shogi Hall in Takatsuki City, Osaka, was thick with anticipation as the fourth match of the professional shogi qualifying test kicked off. This pivotal showdown featured the highly regarded female player, Tohka Nishiyama, who holds three women's titles—Shira Rei, Joō, and Joryū Ōshō. Facing her was Kenta Miyajima, the test examiner and up-and-coming fourth dan ranked player.
Nishiyama, who is not just fighting to win this match but to become the first-ever female professional shogi player, was under considerable pressure. With her record standing at one victory and two defeats against her, she found herself at kado-ban, meaning she couldn't afford another loss. She came to the match seeking redemption, hoping to secure her second win to keep her dreams alive.
The Yooyousei and former rival of Nishiyama, Miyajima, arrived early, preparing himself nervously for the battle. There was something almost cinematic about the two players; they were about to write history. Nishiyama entered the room just minutes before the match commenced, surprising spectators, as she greeted Miyajima and hastily set the shogi pieces on the board. Her late entry raised questions about her mental preparedness, but it also reflected her characteristic fearless nature.
The match began with Nishiyama taking the first move, opening the diagonal of her bishop. Miyajima responded with confidence, sticking to his game plan before both contestants settled down to adjust their strategies. These strategic encounters are where shogi dazzles, resembling chess, but unique to its Japanese roots and traditions.
After almost two hours of intense concentration, the match was interrupted for lunch, but not before Nishiyama could display her renowned aggressive style, commonly referred to as the “grasping power” it appears she truly is known for. Interestingly, during the lunch break, the local establishments participated, providing unique dishes for the players, enhancing the match’s atmosphere. Nishiyama ordered the hamburger set from the popular Food & Cafe 8ppy Coffee, whereas Miyajima opted for shrimp pilaf, embodying the competitive spirit between the two.
Live commentary on the game was provided via platforms like ABEMA and the Japan Shogi Association's own streaming service, demonstrating the growing interest and modernization of this board game challenging both players' minds as they fought for their futures. The broadcasting was more than just about the match; it symbolized the intersection of technology and tradition, engaging both veterans and newcomers to shogi.
With both contestants waiting for the next phase of their duel, the chess-like tactics surfaced, with Nishiyama's earlier moves showcasing her strategic mindscape. Despite initially seeming somewhat behind during the lunch break, Miyajima seemed unbothered as he displayed resilience and poise. At this point, the game was still considered neck-and-neck – both players exhibited momentous emotional attendance.
To add to the significance of this test, Nishiyama's career has been filled with milestones. She joined the Shogi Encouragement Association back in 2010, quickly rising to prominence within the ranks. By 2015, she had made herself known as the second female player to advance to the third degree. Unbeknownst to many, she resigned from 'Shinryūke' to pursue her title as one of Japan's leading female players. Her legacy extends beyond titles; she earned 18 as of now and has continuously broken barriers for future generations.
With Nishiyama trailing 1-2, every decision and move would be pivotal as she fought to keep her dreams of becoming the first female professional player alive. Miyajima was also under scrutiny, having performed strong within his own right. The match continued to reveal the subtleties and strategies of each player, culminating all previous encounters and creating new narratives very much eager for their next chapter. This wasn’t just competition against one another but also reflected their journeys through the tunnel of uncertainty they both trod.
The regulation for the match mandated three hours for both players, and each duel at this significant venue was unprecedented. Now, all eyes were set on how Nishiyama would counter. Would she find her way to victory against Miyajima? The competition was closely watched by fans, critics, and fellow players, all taking part as witnesses to what could be history. Would this fourth match signal the continuation of her exceptional legacy or lead to another heartbreaking chapter?
The competitors resumed their roles shortly, tension still simmering as they immersed back onto their boards, each one hoping for the best. The evening was projected to be intense, and the participants knew the final moves would very much decide whether the day would belong to Nishiyama or Miyajima.
