Yasuharu Kawase (川瀬 晶啓, Kawase Yasuharu, born September 29, 1986) is a Japanese professional shogi player, currently ranked 7-dan. He is a member of the Japan Shogi Association.
Early Life and Apprenticeship
Born in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Kawase developed an interest in shogi at a young age. He entered the Japan Shogi Association's apprentice school in September 2000, where he became a disciple of Kōji Tanigawa, a celebrated shogi master and former Meijin. Kawase steadily advanced through the apprentice ranks, achieving 3-dan status in 2005.
Professional Career
Kawase earned professional status and the rank of 4-dan on October 1, 2007, after winning the 41st 3-dan League (April 2007 – September 2007) with a record of 13 wins and 5 losses.
He was promoted to 5-dan on February 19, 2010, after achieving 100 wins as a professional. On February 22, 2017, he reached 6-dan for winning 120 games as a 5-dan. Kawase was promoted to his current rank of 7-dan on February 26, 2021, after achieving 150 wins as a 6-dan.
Kawase is recognized for his solid and fundamental playing style. He regularly participates in major shogi title tournaments, including the Meijin-sen and Ryūō-sen, as well as various general tournaments.
Promotion History
- September 2000: 6-kyū
- October 1, 2007: 4-dan
- February 19, 2010: 5-dan
- February 22, 2017: 6-dan
- February 26, 2021: 7-dan