When I was around 5 or 6, I was learning Go, piano, and calligraphy. I didn't continue the last two for long, but I think winning and losing made Go interesting. I became an insei (apprentice professional) at 12. I guess when I was a child I didn't think very much about a job apart from Go.

When I was in high school, I was interested in English and overseas countries, so I went to a university specializing in foreign languages. In fourth year, I qualified as a Go professional, but, if I hadn't, I think I would have aimed at a job involving English and overseas countries.

After becoming a professional, I found out that Go had spread overseas, and I was lucky enough to get many opportunities to travel overseas to help popularize Go. I've made friends with Go players all around the world and have had valuable experiences in cultural exchange. One good thing about becoming a professional is all the people I have been able to meet in Japan and overseas through Go.