3-5 point low approach

Low approach to the 3-5 point  

The approach play is the low approach to the 3-5 point, See that page for alternative approach plays.

The variations after are amongst the most complex known to go players. They include the taisha joseki and the 3-5 point, 4-3 approach, one-space pincer, each of which ramifies into hundreds of separate lines. The content of these joseki is interesting, but systematic study of them can be postponed until dan level.

Plays on the top side  

The complexity arises from Black's plays designed to pressure . There are the seven choices a to g. In order decreasing popularity they are:

• c, the taisha joseki^[1]
• a, the 3-5 point low approach press^[2]
• b, the 3-5 point, 4-3 approach, one-space pincer^[3]
• d, the 3-5 point low approach two-space low pincer
• f, the 3-5 point low approach three-space low pincer
• e, the 3-5 point low approach two-space high pincer
• g, the rare 3-5 point low approach three-space high pincer.

Plays on the left side  

On other other hand Black can equally play on the left side, to take up position before playing aggressively. Such plays, at one of the marked points, are just as popular in pro games.

Charles Matthews