Hello,

My real name is Alan and I've been interested in playing Go for quite some time, although I haven't started to play seriously until now.

I guess I found an interest in playing Go when I first saw it played in the movie "Pi." Then in college, I was taught the game by my roommate. He was much more experienced than I and we only had a 19x19 board to play on, but the rules were pretty simple it seemed... The theory wan't sticking, though. It wasn't until recently that I found a 9x9 board and started studying the game for real. As for my ranking; I've listed it as a beginner, but I may be 27 or 30 kyu.

You'd be surprised, but I currently live in Japan and have yet to meet another Go player. Anyone hang near Osaka?

I hope to make regular use of this forum and become a better player! It's nice to meet you all!

Welcome to L19!

Welcome to the forums.

Living in Japan is a great oportunity to learn the game. In a city like Osaka there will be a dozen clubs. I have no clue how to find them.

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Help make L19 more organized. Make an index: https://lifein19x19.com/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=5207

ACGalaga, welcome. はじめまして　どうぞよろしく。

よろしくおねがいします〜

There's a place in Osaka, Dobutsuenmae that many people gather to play Go and Shogi. I pass by and observe from the window, but the environment is way too intimidating for me. Not just because of being a beginner, but the language and age gap are huge factors.

Maybe now that I've become a little better at the game (and Japanese) I'll try harder to seek out other players.

Thanks again for all the warm welcomes!

Good morning, and welcome! There's always the option of the Beginners room at KGS, or asking for a teaching game on KGS (potentially in the Lifin19x19 room).

Good luck, and enjoy learning!

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Someday I want to be strong enough to earn KGS[-].

You can always check out Nihon Kiin Osaka by Umeda or Kansai Kiin by Yodoyabashi. I usually visit those for buying stuff when I get a chance to travel.

Wow, thanks for the heads up! I'll be sure to check them out next time I go to the city!