Shinoda is a pro of go who has passed the exam 30 years ago. He consecrate himself to form the Insei. We discover him when he makes pass the exam to Hikaru. Very comely and pedagogue, he'll follow the progress of Shindo's group a little like a father.

A calm and appreciated man.

Master Shinoda is old but he is very good as go. He is very quiet and is a very good intermediary. He settles the conflicts between the Insei. He is the one who sees exactly the progress of his pupils.

He seems to have a good relationship with Amano the journalist, this last one asks him often news of some players like Isumi or Shindo.

Strict when he has to, he knows raise the tone when it's necessary even if he is beside gentle.

A steady man baffled by Hikaru.

He is quiet but the arrival of Hikaru will baffle him. He doesn't understand the young boy, especially when he passes the exam of Insei. Hikaru is a puzzle for him. He has a beginner level, but Ogata, one of the more famous pros, has recommended him. Shinoda is then embarassed for his decision. Happyly, the 3 simultaneous games will decide him.

Shinoda is also rather affected by Shindo's attitude because this last one is not very respectful and very indisciplined. In the mean time, learning go, Hikaru will become more disciplined and will impress much the Insei's teacher.

A teaching man.

Shinoda is a very good teacher. He is often close to his pipuls and worrys for them. He gives them counsels at every moment and teaches them the technical. In the mean time, he can't help him to have some favorits like Isumi for example. He worrys much for Hikaru equally even if he doesn't show this openly and he is very proud when this last one raises some tests.

When he explains something, he takes his time. He gives counsels on every games and the pupils are generaly very attentive.

The Insei give back him his confidence. Even when they are pro, they come back to see him for ask counsels because they have an absolute confidence in him. They are a little like Childs. He doesn't hesitate to reprimand Mashiba during the young lions's tournament.

Hikaru:

Isumi: