2. Components
The Board
- A grid of 19x19 lines, giving 361 playing points where lines intersect (AGA Rule 1)
- Smaller boards are permitted, 13x13 and 9x9 being the two most common (AGA Rule 1)
- Nine marked points (star points or hoshi) are used to place handicap stones
The Stones
- Two sets of lens-shaped stones, one black and one white
- A full set is 181 black and 180 white — enough to fill all 361 points, with Black holding the extra stone as Black plays first
- Stones are placed on the intersections, including edges and corners, never inside the squares
Other Equipment
- Two bowls or lids to hold stones and captured prisoners
- Pass stones — under AGA rules a player who passes hands the opponent a stone, which counts as a prisoner (AGA Rule 7)
- A game clock for timed and tournament play