Makoto Chūza


Makoto Chūza is a Japanese professional shogi player ranked 7-dan.

Early life

Chūza was born in Wakkanai, Hokkaido on February 3, 1970. He was accepted into the Japan Shogi Association's apprentice school at the rank of 6-kyū in November 1981 under the tutelage of shogi professional, was promoted to the rank of 1-dan in 1988, and obtained full professional status and the rank of 4-dan in April 1996.

Theoretical contributions

The Side Pawn Capture variation Chūza's Rook, which became a very popular strategy, is named after him.

Personal life

Chuza is married to retired female shogi professional Akiko Nakakura. The couple married in November 2003, and have three children.

Promotion history

The promotion history for Chūza is as follows:
Chūza received the Japan Shogi Association's Masuda Award for his "Chūza's Rook" opening variation in 1998.