NHK Cup (Go)

The NHK Cup is a major professional Go tournament held annually in Japan. It is sponsored by the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) and is broadcast on NHK Educational TV. The tournament is known for its relatively short time limits, making it a fast-paced and exciting event for viewers.

The tournament format typically involves a single-elimination bracket featuring top professional Go players in Japan. Players qualify based on their performance in other major tournaments throughout the year. The winner of the NHK Cup receives a significant prize and considerable prestige within the Go community.

The NHK Cup is one of the most popular Go tournaments in Japan, due in large part to its television broadcast and the accessibility of the game to a wider audience. The broadcast often includes commentary and explanations of the moves, making it easier for viewers to follow the game even if they are not expert players. Because of its wide audience, winning the NHK Cup can significantly increase a player's recognition and popularity. The tournament has a long history, and the list of past winners includes many of the greatest Go players of all time.