51Shogi – Learn Shogi (Japanese Chess) Step by Step

Shogi, also known as Japanese chess, features a unique set of pieces with distinct movement patterns.

This guide explains how every Shogi piece moves in simple English, so beginners from overseas can easily understand.

Below each section, insert the corresponding image of the piece you have.

King (王 / 玉) – Ō / Gyoku

Movement:

The King moves one square in any direction — up, down, left, right, or diagonal.

It is similar to the King in chess but cannot castle.

Rook (飛車 / Hisha)

Movement:

Moves any number of squares vertically or horizontally.

A strong long-range attacker.

Promotion (龍王 / Dragon King):

Can also move one square diagonally.

Bishop (角 / Kakugyō)

Movement:

Moves any number of squares diagonally.

Promotion (龍馬 / Dragon Horse):

Can also move one square straight (up, down, left, right).

Gold General (金 / Kinshō)

Movement:

Moves one square in six directions:

forward forward-diagonal left forward-diagonal right left right backward (straight)

Cannot move backward diagonally.

Silver General (銀 / Ginshō)

Movement:

Moves one square in five directions:

forward forward-diagonal left forward-diagonal right backward-diagonal left backward-diagonal right

Does not move sideways.

Promotion:

Moves like a Gold General.

Knight (桂馬 / Keima)

Movement:

Jumps two squares forward and one square left or right.

The only piece that can jump over others.

Cannot move backward or sideways.

Promotion:

Moves like a Gold General.

Lance (香車 / Kyōsha)

Movement:

Moves any number of squares forward in a straight line.

Cannot move backward or sideways.

Promotion:

Moves like a Gold General.

Pawn (歩兵 / Fuhyō)

Movement:

Moves one square forward only.

Captures straight forward (unlike chess pawns).

Promotion:

Moves like a Gold General.

Promotion Zone (成り)

When a piece enters, moves within, or leaves the opponent’s last three ranks, it may promote.

Promotion makes pieces stronger and more flexible.

【将棋Shogi】04.How to Set Up a Shogi Board

【将棋shogi】