Stones of Peace: A Philippine-Japan Igo Journey

The Philippine Go community is set to embark on a remarkable cultural and educational experience through Stones of Peace: A Philippine-Japan Igo Journey, a special event that celebrates friendship, learning, and cultural exchange through the timeless game of Go.

This initiative seeks to bring together Go enthusiasts, learners, and community leaders in an environment that promotes intellectual growth, sportsmanship, and international friendship through the game we all love.

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International Collaborators

We are honored to collaborate with distinguished members of the international Go community whose dedication to education, cultural exchange, and the promotion of Go continues to inspire players around the world.

Hajime Kikkawa

Professional Go Player (4-Dan, Nihon Ki-in)
Head Instructor and Operator, Osaka Children’s Go Dojo, Japan

Hajime Kikkawa is a Nihon Ki-in-certified professional Go player and the head instructor of the Osaka Children’s Go Dojo. Through years of dedicated teaching, he has helped nurture young learners in the art of Go while promoting critical thinking, discipline, and personal development.

His extensive experience in youth Go education aligns closely with the Philippine Go Association’s mission of using Go as a tool for learning, character development, and cultural understanding. His participation will provide attendees with valuable insights from a professional player and educator.

Cho Seokbin (Sukbin Cho / 趙鏞彬)

Nihon Ki-in-Certified 7-Dan Amateur
Head Instructor and Operator, Nakamura Honinbo Go School, Nagoya, Japan

Cho Seokbin is a highly respected Go educator and instructor who has operated the Nakamura Honinbo Go School in Nagoya, Japan, for many years. Under his guidance, numerous students have advanced in competitive play, including several who eventually became professional Go players.

Widely recognized for his contributions to Go education and international promotion, he has actively supported cross-cultural learning through the game. His experience and passion for teaching make him an invaluable collaborator in advancing Go development and cultural exchange.

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Registration Information

To ensure a competitive and enriching environment, registration will initially be limited to players of Intermediate rank and above.

• Maximum Capacity: 50 Participants
• Registration will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Should the 50 available slots not be fully occupied, the remaining slots will be opened to other registered participants regardless of rank.

Register Now

Interested participants may register through the official registration form:

👉 Registration Link: [https://forms.gle/VcscibjTTFspVh6v6]

Please fill out the registration form completely and accurately. All information provided will be used solely for event coordination and communication purposes.

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Tentative Event Dates

📅 December 5-6, 2026 (Saturday and Sunday)

Please note that these dates are tentative and may be subject to adjustment pending final confirmation.

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More Than a Tournament

Stones of Peace is more than a gathering of Go players. It is an opportunity to strengthen friendships, exchange ideas, and deepen cultural understanding through meaningful interactions over the Go board.

Whether you are seeking to improve your skills, learn from accomplished players, or simply connect with fellow enthusiasts, this event promises a memorable and rewarding experience.

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With Gratitude to Our Sponsor

This project is made possible through the generous support of The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) under its Arts and Culture Grant Program.

We sincerely thank JFM for its commitment to fostering cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds between the Philippines and Japan through meaningful initiatives in arts, education, and community engagement.

Their support helps make Stones of Peace: A Philippine-Japan Igo Journey possible and allows us to create valuable opportunities for learning, friendship, and international collaboration within the Go community.

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Support the Event

While this project benefits from the support of The Japan Foundation, Manila, additional community support can further enhance the experience for participants and guests.

Individuals, organizations, and friends of the Go community who wish to contribute are welcome to provide voluntary donations to support:

• Event logistics and operations
• Educational activities and learning materials
• Guest support and cultural exchange initiatives
• Community outreach and participant engagement
• Future Go development programs in the Philippines

Every contribution, regardless of size, helps strengthen and grow the Go community.

For those interested in supporting this initiative, please contact the organizers through the channels listed below.

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Contact Information

For registration inquiries, partnership opportunities, sponsorships, or donation details, please contact:

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Join Us

Go has always been more than a game. It is a bridge between cultures, a tool for learning, and a pathway to lasting friendships.

We look forward to welcoming participants from across the Philippines as we celebrate the spirit of Go and the connections it creates beyond borders.

Let’s enjoy the game together and continue building bridges through Go.

Organized by the Philippine-Go Association (PH-Go).
Further details regarding the venue, schedule, and registration procedures will be announced soon.

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