Photo/Illutration New Meijin Sota Fujii holds up a piece of paper with “Meijin” written on it at a news conference on June 1 in Takayama, Nagano Prefecture. (Asahi Shimbun photo file)  

Toshihiko Kawaguchi (1936-2015), an 8-dan pro shogi player, famously stated that only those who are meant to become Meijin (grand master) can win a Meijin-sen match “because every Meijin is someone who is chosen by the entire shogi community as an offering to the god of shogi.”

That’s a rather eyebrow-raising interpretation, but there also are many other sayings about Meijin that are just as provocative, probably indicating just how special this prestigious title is.

Sota Fujii, 20, became the newest Meijin on June 1 and the youngest in history to hold the title. What makes him even more amazing is that he now holds seven titles.

I have no doubt whatsoever that we are now witnessing what will go down in history as the “Fujii Era.” 

His post-game analysis was extremely impressive. Fujii and his opponent looked back and commented on their every move, conversing for more than 30 minutes in such a companionable manner that it was hard to believe they had just engaged in a fierce contest.

I believe they understood each other perfectly because each had thought through the game to the utmost extent and kept up a silent dialogue.

“A post-game analysis exists for the loser” is said to be Fujii’s favorite saying.

The winner refrains from openly rejoicing, instead striving to work out the yet-to-be-discovered best move. The loser holds back showing disappointment and looks forward to the next game by learning from the mistakes made. That’s what gives depth to shogi.

I was surprised to be told that post-game analyses in the past often went on for as long as three hours.

Kozo Masuda (1918-1991), a Meijin of the Showa Era (1926-1989), enjoyed post-game analyses while keeping his surprise moves to himself.

Yasuharu Oyama (1923-1992), the 15th Lifetime Meijin, was said to openly declare, “You can say anything during a post-game analysis.”

Fujii will continue to aim higher while remaining humble about his Meijin status.

I wonder how far he will go. The god of shogi, who is accepting this latest “offering,” must be filled with joyous anticipation.

--The Asahi Shimbun, June 2

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Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.

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