The Equipment You Need to Start Go: Board, Stones, and Bowls

日本語で読む →

The short answer: a board, stones, and bowls

The equipment you need to start go comes down to three things: a board (goban), stones (goishi), and bowls (goke) to hold them. With these three you can play. Begin with an affordable set, and move up to a serious board and stones as you keep playing.

• A go set is three basics: board, stones, and bowls.
• Beginners improve faster starting on a small board (9×9 or 13×13).
• A formal set of stones is 180 white and 181 black — 361 in all (for a 19×19 board).
• Bowls should match the size (go number) of your stones.
• Start affordable; step up to a kaya board and clam-shell stones over time.

The board (goban)

The board is where stones are placed, marked with a grid of lines. Boards come in several sizes, counting the lines (ro):

• 19×19: the formal board. This is what you want for serious play.
• 13×13: a useful bridge for intermediate practice.
• 9×9: fewer intersections and short games — ideal for learning the rules.

Starting a beginner straight onto a 19×19 board can feel overwhelming. A 9×9 or 13×13 board makes the feel of the game easier to grasp. Board material and form (tabletop vs. legged, honkaya vs. shinkaya) can wait until you know you want to continue.

The stones (goishi)

For a 19×19 board, a formal set is 180 white and 181 black stones — 361 in total (Nihon Ki-in). Games rarely use every stone, but a proper set contains this number.

Materials vary. Glass or plastic stones are inexpensive and easy to handle for beginners; for serious play the classics are white hamaguri (clam-shell) stones and black Nachiguro slate. Clam-shell stones are graded (yuki, tsuki, hana) and measured by thickness (go), and both their feel and appearance are exceptional. There is no need to buy premium stones at the start.

The bowls (goke)

Bowls hold the stones. They are easy to overlook, but a bowl that does not match your stones’ size (go number) will either fail to hold them all or leave them rattling loose. Common materials are chestnut, mulberry, and zelkova, which differ in look, feel, and price. If you choose clam-shell stones, consider bowls sized to match.

From a first set to a serious one

• Getting started: a 9×9 or 13×13 board with glass stones — easy to begin.
• Once you’re committed: a 19×19 board, clam-shell stones, and matching bowls — a clear step up in feel and satisfaction.
• Heirloom or gift: a honkaya board and higher-grade clam-shell stones — a lifetime piece.

Prices vary widely by material and grade, so we won’t state figures here; a specialist dealer can advise for your budget.

Caring for your equipment

A good board and stones last for decades if handled well. Keep boards out of direct sunlight and dryness, and wipe them with a dry cloth. Clam-shell stones should be handled to prevent yellowing and grime.

FAQ

What is the minimum I need to start go?

A board, stones, and bowls. With these three you can play. Beginners do well starting with a small board and affordable stones.

How many stones do I need?

A formal 19×19 set is 180 white and 181 black — 361 stones. Games rarely use them all, but a proper set contains this number.

Should I buy a honkaya board or clam-shell stones right away?

There’s no need. Most players start with an affordable set and move up to a serious board and stones once they’ve decided to continue.