Bashamichi Street Chess 2026 – 日本チェス連盟

We’re holding our annual Bashamichi Street Chess event again this year.

It’s a fun event where even those who are interested in chess but have never played before can enjoy themselves.

Beginners are more than welcome!

Invite your friends and family, and let’s all gather in Yokohama!

This event will take place on the final day of the “Bashamichi Festival,” scheduled for October 31 through November 3.

It is a glamorous festival featuring ladies dressed in gowns from the Rokumeikan era and horse-drawn carriages parading through the streets.

There will also be a variety of other attractions, so please enjoy those as well.

5-71 Onoecho, Naka-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, in front of Yokohama City Tower Bashamichi (map)

*The event will be canceled in case of rain.

Event

The final match will be played on a large chessboard embedded in the sidewalk—it’s sure to be a dynamic game!

This is a rapid chess match with a time limit of 5 to 10 minutes with no increment, and a draw counts as a win for Black.

Registration: We will accept 16 participants on-site the day of the event (if there are more applicants than spots, a lottery will be held).

Open to the public—no entry fee!

11:00–12:00 Registration for the first tournament

12:00–13:00 First tournament

13:00–14:00 Registration for the second tournament

14:00–15:00 Second tournament

*Please note that the time may vary slightly due to various circumstances.

Held from 11:00 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 14:00

Our staff will explain how the pieces move to anyone interested in trying chess.

Between tournament rounds, you can play games freely using the large board, oversized pieces, and sets laid out on the tables.

Take a commemorative photo for the Bashamichi Festival using the giant chess pieces and board.

Be sure to take a photo and share it on social media!

These T-shirts feature simple designs that are easy to incorporate into your everyday outfits.

They are available in two colors: “Navy” and “Olive.”

Some sizes are running low, so if you’re interested, please purchase them soon.

¥3,500（tax included)

Organizer: Bashamichi Shopping Avenue Cooperative Association

Co-organizer: Japan Chess Federation

Here are some photos from past events.