I said I'd give you an update.
I think it looks very good in real life. Secondhand, but in very good shape. No visible damage apart from perhaps a scratch or so if you take a really close look. Visually, the main flaw is that some of the lines are not as crisp as they could be. You can see it in the picture. But for regular use, one hardly notices.
As said earlier, it is not kaya, or shin kaya for that matter. I don't know what kind of wood it is (someone here has a guess?). It seems to be finished/lacquered, not waxed. The grain is reasonably clear but not fully straight over the whole of the board. I thought perhaps I would not appreciate that, but still I think it is very nice, also because I like the tone of colour very much which is a warm and eye-pleasing red/brownish tone.
As a European and owning a table goban already, I did not buy it to play or use it regularly. More for the idea of owning a floor goban. So it still has to be played (Simen/Eikons, read this?). I did use it to study a bit. The wood seems to be quite hard. Brings me to sound. This aspect I like the least. Placing stones produces a dry, hard sound, a bit harsh.
In the picture, I played one of Honinbo Shusaku's games with one of the go stone sets I have. These are original Japanese slate and shell, size 34, standard grade. Also secondhand, but very pleasant to play with, especially for my clumsy fingers. I think the stones complement this floor goban excellently. I hope the picture shows what I mean.
Overall: very pleased.
I think every go lover should have a floor goban, even if you are not from Asia. It is not too expensive (for most of us). I am very content.
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