☖ Shogi Piece & Rules / pieces

王将 (Osho)

King in Shogi

王将 (Osho)

☖ Meaning & Piece Info

The King (Osho) is the most critical piece in Shogi, equivalent to the King in Chess. If your King is trapped (checkmated), you lose the game.

💡 Cultural & Historical Context

Originating from Chaturanga in ancient India, Japan uniquely split it into 'Osho' and 'Gyokusho'. Etiquette dictates that the higher-ranked player uses Osho, while the challenger uses Gyokusho.

💬 Useful Conversation Phrases

Used in contexts like 'Checkmating the King' or 'Building a castle (defense formation) to protect the King'.

王将をしっかりと守るために、美濃囲いを完成させた。
🔊 To protect the King firmly, I completed the Mino Castle.

❓ Bilingual Shogi Quiz

Which most critical piece in Shogi leads to immediate defeat if captured?