You know the rules and you’ve played some games. Here’s how to actually get stronger — strategy, joseki, tesuji, endgame, and game review. In English and 日本語.
The beginner track on our Start Here page takes you from zero to your first games. This track is the next step: practical, repeatable skills for players who already play and want to climb. Each guide is available in both English and Japanese.
The Intermediate Track
1. How to Analyze Your Own Games
The highest-return habit there is. A 5-step method to review your games, find turning points, and fix recurring mistakes — with an interactive board to replay your kifu.
2. Building an Opening Repertoire
Stop playing a different opening every game. Static Rook vs Ranging Rook, what each demands, and how to pick the one weapon that fits you.
3. Joseki Worth Memorizing
Don’t memorize move orders you don’t understand. Learn the aim behind each move and a 4-step method to study any joseki the right way.
4. Essential Tesuji
The reusable tactical motifs that decide middlegames — dangling pawn, joining pawn, focal-point pawn, silver wedge, cross rook, and more.
5. Endgame Speed
Most close games are decided by one tempo, not one piece. Count the race to the king, recognize tsumero and hisshi, and know when to attack or defend.
If you only read one, make it the first. Reviewing your own games is the fastest way to find what to work on next.