The manners around the board

Starting and ending a game

Before the first move, both players bow slightly and say "onegaishimasu" (お願いします) — loosely, "please [play with me]". It's a small ritual, but skipping it reads as brusque.

When a player sees the position is lost, they resign by bowing and saying "makemashita" (負けました), "I have lost." Playing on in a hopelessly lost position, forcing your opponent to actually deliver checkmate, is considered somewhat poor form — recognizing the loss and resigning gracefully is the expected, respected way to end a game. It is not the same as giving up early; a resignation is a statement that you can both see the same clear outcome.

Handling the pieces

• Once you release a piece, the move is final. There's no equivalent of chess's "touch move" grace period — the instant your fingers leave the piece, that move stands. Think before you place it, not after.
• Place pieces decisively, not tentatively. A confident, clean placement in the center of the square is standard; hovering or nudging a piece while still deciding is considered a little rude, since it can look like you're trying to read your opponent's reaction before committing.
• Keep captured pieces organized in front of you. Pieces held in hand are usually arranged neatly, sorted by type, facing your opponent so they can always see exactly what you have available to drop. It's both a courtesy and, practically, how skilled players keep track of the game.

Around the board

In a dojo or club, quiet concentration is the norm. Watching someone else's game is completely normal, but commenting on it out loud — even a whispered suggestion — is not; it's considered a serious breach to influence a game you're not playing in. If you want to discuss a position with either player, wait until the game has ended.

After a serious game, especially between a stronger and weaker player, it's common (though not obligatory) to review the game together afterward — a kansōsen (感想戦), literally "impressions session." If your opponent offers one, it's a generous gesture worth taking them up on; it's often where the most learning happens.

One last stop before you're fully equipped: a glossary of the Japanese terms you'll keep running into. Continue to Glossary.