20 Facts About Kimio Yamada

Kimio Yamada has two older brothers, Shiho Yamada and Wakio Yamada.

Kimio Yamada began playing Go at the beginning of his school career.

Two years later, he became a pupil of Yorimoto Yamashita, who adjudged Kimio Yamada to be a 6 dan amateur at the time.

Kimio Yamada was often praised for his extensive studying and deep reading.

Kimio Yamada won the "New Player Award" in 1992 and won his first title, the Shin-Ei, in 1993.

Kimio Yamada was winner of the top Oteai section that same year.

Kimio Yamada won another young players tournament, the Shinjin-O, in 1997.

Kimio Yamada defeated title-holder Ryu Shikun three to one to claim his first major title, but then lost the title the following year to O Rissei.

In 1999, Kimio Yamada reached the semi-finals of the challenger tournament for the Oza.

Kimio Yamada was invited to participate in the 1st Chunlan Cup in 1998.

In 1999, Kimio Yamada reached the semi-finals of the Samsung Cup, losing to Lee Chang-ho by resignation.

Kimio Yamada won the 7 dan division of the 23rd Kisei tournament when he defeated Naoki Hane on 22 April 1999.

Kimio Yamada was a part of the Japanese team at the 1st Nongshim Cup in 2000.

Kimio Yamada was eliminated in his only game against Chang Hao.

In 2003, Kimio Yamada won the award for most consecutive victories with 18.

Kimio Yamada won his 600th career game in 2004, the third fastest ever at 15 years and 6 months.

Three years later, Kimio Yamada won his 700th game, becoming the second fastest to reach 700 wins.

In 2004, Kimio Yamada reached the finals of the Gosei tournament, his first major title challenge in six years.

Kimio Yamada was the first player to be promoted from 8 dan to 9 dan for cumulative victories in 2006.

Kimio Yamada challenged for the Honinbo title that same year, losing to Shinji Takao in six games.