Xiangqi is an abstract battle game that evolved from an ancient Chinese game called Liubo, invented some 3,500 years ago.

Like Liubo, the modern Xiangqi consists of one general and five pawns, and the game is decided by the capturing of the general. Unlike Liubo, the moves of the modern Xiangqi are not determined by the roll of dice.

There are two possible reasons why Xiangqi is called the Elephant Game (with Xiang meaning elephant and Qi meaning chess). First of all, the game pieces of general and pawns in Liubo were made of ivory. Since the games pieces were called Qi and ivory came from elephants, these pieces were called Xiangqi.

Secondly, Chinese were known to incorporate elephants in military. The legendary Huang Di (>4000 years ago) allegedly had a fleet of elephants in his army. It was also recorded that elephants were used in combats during the Han Dynasty (approx. the time of Christ).

This board when opened measures 38x28cm. The pieces are 2.5cm in diameter.

The rule booklet is in clear and concise English, with illustrations and diagrams to show the board set-up, the pieces and their moves.

A beautiful and lasting Game for all ages.