Two Japanese professional players of the traditional board games shogi and go have received the country's People's Honor Award.

Shogi champion Yoshiharu Habu and go master Yuta Iyama attended an awards ceremony at the office of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Tuesday.

Habu in December became the first player ever to become a lifetime holder of all major shogi titles. Iyama won all 7 major go titles in Japan for an unprecedented 2nd time last October.

Abe said their historical achievements gave people dreams, and brought hope to society. He presented them with certificates and cloisonne ink-stone cases and writing brushes inscribed with their names.

The two are the first shogi and go players to receive the award, which was established in 1977, and the 24th and 25th recipients overall.

After the ceremony, the 47-year-old Habu told reporters that he has renewed his resolve to improve as a professional shogi player. He said he will push his limits as he gets older.

Iyama, who is 28, said he understands the commendation reflects people's expectations for his continued efforts in future. He says he will work harder to improve both as a person and as a go player.

Source: ANNnewsCH