Beginner Go Sets

If you are new to the Game of GO, we recommended starting learning on smaller boards. You can begin with a 9x9 board, then move to a 13x13 before progressing to the full-size 19x19 board. This gradual increase helps to ease the learning curve and ensures you get a better understanding of the game's strategies.

We have a good range of entry-level Go Sets. The Go Masters range is designed specifically for beginners that are eager to learn the game of Go. These sets feature good quality components at an affordable price. Each set comes with a set of stones and a dual-sided board (either plastic, wooden or leatherette) with two different game sizes, allowing you to start with a smaller, simpler board and gradually progress to the larger one.

If you are looking for a more authentic-looking Go Set that can be proudly displayed at your home, you can consider the 13 x 13 Go Table Set. This beautifully finished wooden Go table with a Beech veneer exterior features a 13 x 13 playing grid, 8mm glass Go stones, and light or dark wooden bowls. It is perfect for beginners, children, or situations where time is limited (a full Go game can take a while so a smaller set allows players to play a quick game).

Intermediate Go Sets

If you’ve learned the rules and are ready to advance your game, it's time to upgrade to a full-size (19x19) set. A popular choice is the Go Masters Intermediate Go Set with Dual Side Board. This set features a dual-sided wooden board with both a full-size 19x19 layout and a smaller 13x13 board for shorter games, making it ideal for those looking to upgrade from entry-level equipment while enjoying the flexibility of two board sizes. The set also includes glass Go stones and a pair of wooden Go bowls, so you can get playing right away.

Those on a tighter budget may wish to consider the Philos Folding Tournament Go Set with Glass Stones & Plastic Bowls or the Go Set with Folding Wooden Board & Glass Stones. These sets are a decent size, allowing for an enjoyable game (smaller board and stone sets can be very fiddly). The folding boards are very practical as all the components can be stored away conveniently in the box when not in use. The only drawback of the folding design is that it may not be perfectly level, however this should not be a problem for most Go games played at home.

Superior Go Boards / Go Sets

Serious Go players are always on the lookout for high-quality equipment that enhances their playing experience. A key component of this equipment is the Go board, which requires careful consideration in terms of both material and thickness to meet the discerning standards of dedicated players.

When choosing a Go board, one of the primary decisions revolves around the material. The choice of material significantly impacts the board's durability, appearance, and the tactile experience it offers during play. Among the various materials available, Shin Kaya is widely recognised for its superior quality. Known for its fine grain, Shin Kaya boards provide an exceptional playing experience. This material is also highly durable, ensuring that the board remains a treasured possession for many years.

In addition to material, the thickness of the Go board is another critical factor that serious players must consider. Generally, thicker boards are more valuable and of higher quality. A thicker board offers several advantages: it is more resistant to warping and provides a more stable surface for gameplay. Furthermore, the substantial presence of a thick Go board makes it an impressive centrepiece in any home, serving both as a functional piece of equipment and a striking display item.

For serious Go enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and high-quality set, the Kurokigoishiten Go Set with Shin Kaya Goban & Clamshell & Slate Stones is an exceptional choice. This set features a genuine Japanese-made Goban from the esteemed Go specialist Kurokigoishiten. Crafted from Shin Kaya (new kaya), the board is beautifully finished with a prominent wood grain, approximately 6cm thick, and stands on ornately carved wooden legs. Included in this set are authentic clamshell and slate stones, offering the ultimate playing experience.

For those who prefer a board without the legs, the Shin Kaya (Alaska Spruce) 6cm Goban is highly recommended. This solid and chunky board, made from Shin Kaya, measures approximately 6cm in height and serves as a fine alternative to a goban with legs. Manufactured in Korea, this board is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and virtually invisible joins on the playing surface.

Another excellent and slightly more affordable option is the Kurokigoishiten New Kaya Table Go Board. Made in Japan, this 2.9cm thick Shin Kaya table board is made up of 3-4 pieces of wood. It is a high quality board at an accessible price.

Go Stones

A standard set of Go stones consists of 181 black stones and 180 white stones, with black having an extra stone since it plays the first move. However, it is extremely rare that all stones are used in the game.

Choosing the right set of Go stones is crucial as they significantly impact the playing experience. For those seeking the full, authentic Go experience, only the Clamshell & Slate Go Stones will do. Their weight, colour, pleasant feel, and natural shell grain are highly aesthetically pleasing and truly enhance the playing experience.

A more affordable alternative to these are the Yunzi Go Stones. These authentic stones, produced in the Chinese province of Yunnan, are made from compressed stone, though their exact composition is a closely guarded secret. Yunzi stones are generally considered superior to glass stones and more affordable than clamshell and slate stones.

For beginners, Plastic Go Stones and glass stones are practical choices due to their lower cost. Glass Go Stones are far superior to plastic and offer an affordable alternative to Yunzi or Clamshell and Slate stones. They provide a satisfactory feel and 'click' nicely when placed on the board, though they may have minor imperfections, varying thickness, and are more easily chipped compared to Clamshell and Slate stones.

Go Bowls

While not essential, Go bowls are a useful addition to any Go set that can also add to the aesthetic beauty of the game. Go Bowls can be used to store all the stones and also hold captured stones during play.

When deciding on what Bowls to buy, you need to think about the thickness of your stones as well as the aesthetics. Our Wooden Go Bowls are available in four finishes and can comfortably fit a full set of stones up to 10mm thick. For serious players seeking a more authentic experience, we offer a range of Luxury Wooden Go Bowls by Kurokigoishiten. These bowls come in various sizes and are crafted from fine woods such as Kuri (Chestnut), Kusu (Camphor), and Shii (Castanopsis).