Unveiling the Logic of Strategy: Mystery Author Yo Ashizawa Interviews Sota Fujii for the 2026 Shogi Yearbook
Mynavi Publishing announces the 'Reiwa 8 (2026) Shogi Yearbook,' featuring an exclusive deep-dive interview with Sota Fujii and limited-edition collectibles to enhance archival and collector value.
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Mynavi Publishing Co., Ltd. (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Terunori Tsunotake) has announced that the 'Reiwa 8 (2026) Shogi Yearbook,' published by the Japan Shogi Association, is scheduled for release on August 3, 2026. Pre-orders are now officially open.
The yearbook features a headline special: a profound interview with Sota Fujii (Ryuo and Meijin) conducted by mystery novelist Yo Ashizawa, renowned for her shogi-themed work 'Kami no Akute.' Ashizawa, celebrating her 15th anniversary as an author and a recipient of the Shogi Pen Club Award, explores Fujii’s cognitive frameworks and personal philosophies. The interview took place following the second game of the 84th Meijin-sen title match in April 2026.
A central theme of the discussion is the structural similarity between 'Tsume Shogi' (shogi puzzles) and mystery writing. Ashizawa identified a shared logic in 'forward and backward thinking.' Fujii explained that while he utilizes backward induction to construct puzzles, the most exceptional works balance both forward and backward logic to express the game's inherent beauty. The interview also covers Fujii's motivations and personal interests over a 90-minute session.
The 'Shogi Yearbook' has been a definitive record of the sport since 1968. This edition spans 616 pages and covers over 500 matches, including full records of major title tournaments and amateur championships. A deluxe edition will be available, featuring exclusive acrylic stands of the late Hifumi Kato (9-dan) and Sota Fujii.
Product Details:
- Title: Reiwa 8 (2026) Shogi Yearbook
- Price: ¥6,050 (Standard/Digital); ¥8,800 (Deluxe)
- Release Date: August 3, 2026
- ISBN: 978-4-8399-91579 (Standard) / 978-4-8399-91753 (Deluxe)
The yearbook features a headline special: a profound interview with Sota Fujii (Ryuo and Meijin) conducted by mystery novelist Yo Ashizawa, renowned for her shogi-themed work 'Kami no Akute.' Ashizawa, celebrating her 15th anniversary as an author and a recipient of the Shogi Pen Club Award, explores Fujii’s cognitive frameworks and personal philosophies. The interview took place following the second game of the 84th Meijin-sen title match in April 2026.
A central theme of the discussion is the structural similarity between 'Tsume Shogi' (shogi puzzles) and mystery writing. Ashizawa identified a shared logic in 'forward and backward thinking.' Fujii explained that while he utilizes backward induction to construct puzzles, the most exceptional works balance both forward and backward logic to express the game's inherent beauty. The interview also covers Fujii's motivations and personal interests over a 90-minute session.
The 'Shogi Yearbook' has been a definitive record of the sport since 1968. This edition spans 616 pages and covers over 500 matches, including full records of major title tournaments and amateur championships. A deluxe edition will be available, featuring exclusive acrylic stands of the late Hifumi Kato (9-dan) and Sota Fujii.
Product Details:
- Title: Reiwa 8 (2026) Shogi Yearbook
- Price: ¥6,050 (Standard/Digital); ¥8,800 (Deluxe)
- Release Date: August 3, 2026
- ISBN: 978-4-8399-91579 (Standard) / 978-4-8399-91753 (Deluxe)
FAQ
What is the primary highlight of the 2026 edition?
It features an in-depth interview between Sota Fujii and mystery author Yo Ashizawa regarding cognitive strategies.
What does the deluxe edition include?
The deluxe edition comes with commemorative acrylic stands of Hifumi Kato and Sota Fujii.
How many matches are recorded in this volume?
The book includes over 500 matches across 616 pages, including major title series and amateur games.