Two world-class grandmasters are coming to Japan!
GM Victor Bologan (Moldova) and GM Darmen Sadvakassov (Kazakhstan) will hold simultaneous exhibitions and lecture events in Tokyo and Kyoto.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to challenge and learn from two players who have competed at the highest levels of international chess—an experience available nowhere else.
These events are organized within the framework of the Freedom Asian Chess Initiatives (FACI) project, implemented by the Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KazChess) in partnership with the Japan Chess Federation, International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the Asian Chess Federation (ACF), with the support of Freedom Holding Corp.

GM Victor Bologan Profile
Born in 1971, from Moldova, currently serving as FIDE Executive Director.
A super grandmaster with a peak rating of 2734, he reached World No. 18 in 2005.
He is also a certified FIDE Senior Trainer and the author of numerous books and DVDs on chess openings.
GM Darmen Sadvakasov Profile
Born in 1979, from Kazakhstan, currently serving as First Vice President of Kazakhstan Chess Federation and Vice President of the Asian Chess Federation.
With a peak rating of 2634, he became the World Junior Champion (U20) in 1998.
Winner of matches against Anatoly Karpov and Viktor Korchnoi. In addition to his career as a Grandmaster, he is also known for his unique background as a business professional active in public policy and consulting fields.
The Joys of Chess with Grandmaster Legends – Event Overview
Date & Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026 (afternoon)
Venue: Seishincho Community Hall (Edogawa City, Tokyo, access information)
Program: Simultaneous exhibition and lecture (planned)
Organizer: Divine Chess Gurukul
Details: Coming soon
KYOCHESS Spotlight – Event Overview
Date & Time: Sunday, June 14, 2026, 13:00–16:10
Venue: Kyoto Economic Center (Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, access information)
Program: Simultaneous exhibition and lecture
Organizer: KYOCHESS
Details regarding fees and registration:
https://www.kyochess.org/general-8 (KYOCHESS Website)

日本語
English