Chess for World    Wisdom for Life

As the Bay Area’s leading professional chess academy, King’s Land Chess (KLC) is trusted for its high-quality, ​structured approach to youth chess education. Our expert-designed 9-level curriculum ensures group lessons are as focused and effective as private coaching—guiding students from their first move to competitive mastery, and nurturing future champions every step of the way.

Great minds are not built by memorizing facts—they're shaped by learning how to think. And chess teaches exactly that.

King's Land Chess Education Center 
​湾区金仕澜国际象棋教育中心, 专注青少年国际象棋专业培训12年

♟ Why Chess Education Matters in the Age of AI


As artificial intelligence transforms our world, the value of human judgment, creativity, and strategic thinking grows.
​Chess is more than a game—it's a powerful way to train young minds in decision-making, foresight, adaptability, and resilience. On the chessboard, children learn to think critically, manage complexity, and embrace challenges—skills that cannot be automated. 
​While AI can calculate millions of moves, it cannot replace the intuition, ethics, or leadership that children develop through chess. ​In fact, chess education prepares students to not compete with AI, but to collaborate with it as thinkers, creators, and leaders of the future. 
​Great minds are not built by memorizing facts—they're shaped by learning how to think. And chess teaches exactly that.​
WHAT WE OFFER
​A systematic ​structured 9-level curriculum that delivers private-lesson quality in group settings—building critical thinking, resilience, and real-world problem-solving through chess.

"Think, Move, Improve" – KLC 2025 Chess Summer Camp

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE KLC
​

Professional, Expert-Led Training
A Structured Curriculum from Beginner to Master Level
Efficient Learning That Saves Time
Passion Comes First—But We Also Nurture Talent
Comprehensive Programs for All Ages and Levels
Character Development Through Chess
Leadership and Holistic Growth Opportunities
Grow as a Team, Strive for a Shared Goal
Learn More About King's Land Chess →

Testimonials

From the Heart of Our Parents
King's Land Chess in Pleasanton is an amazing place for kids to learn and grow in chess. Coach Kiki is an outstanding teacher—knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about helping young players improve. My child has made incredible progress since joining, not just in chess skills but also in focus and strategic thinking. The structured curriculum and engaging lessons make learning fun and effective. Coach Kiki knows how to motivate kids and build their confidence, which has been great for my child. I highly recommend this academy for any parent looking to nurture their child's love for chess.

X.Li
Google
My daughter has been KLC student for last 2 plus years with coach Kiki started first in Newark branch, followed by Pleasanton and now attending in new branch at Fremont. I'm having great experience not only in terms of the course content but also coach Kiki's efforts in motivating kids for continuous learning. While there are several other chess classes, KLC stands out in terms of 1:1 attention, conducting in house tournaments and encouraging students to attend outside tournaments.


​

​J. Pawar
​Google
Kings Land Chess provides an amazing learning opportunity for kids. Coach Kiki is a great mentor for the kids, is very transparent with parents and provides honest feedback on kids progress. My son has been with KLC for more than an year now and he absolutely loves and looks forward to the chess sessions every week. It's rewarding to see his progression under Coach Kiki's guidance.

The entire staff is always supportive and quick to respond. The USCF rated tournaments are well planned and conducted. Highly recommend this place for young chess enthusiasts!!

​S. Theeda
Google

Our Achievement

KLC Team at World Youth/Cadets Chess Championship

Pan-American Champion

Pan-American Champion 

North American Champion

KLC with the World Champions​

World Champion GM Ding Liren

Women's World Champion GM Hou Yifan

World Champion GM Gukesh Dommaraju

Blindfold World Champion GM Bu Xiangzhi

 Double Victory for KLC! Big Congratulations to Ivan & Bryan! 

Dear KLC Chess Families,

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news — it's a double celebration for King’s Land Chess!

Ivan, one of our exceptional GATE Phase 1 students, just clinched 1st place in the U1700 section at the prestigious Las Vegas National Open with an undefeated record of 6 wins and 1 draw! He was awarded a $5,000 cash prize for his outstanding performance. Ivan’s rapid progress and dedication are truly inspiring — this victory is a remarkable milestone in his chess journey!

 Meanwhile, Bryan continues to shine on the international stage. He recently earned his second IM norm at a major European tournament, scoring an impressive 6.5/9 (5 wins, 3 draws) without a single loss! His efforts were recognized with a €1,200 prize. What an incredible achievement!

Please join us in congratulating Ivan and Bryan, as well as the entire King’s Land Chess community, for their continued passion, perseverance, and excellence. We are so proud of our students and can’t wait to see what lies ahead for them.

 Let’s keep reaching for the stars together!

KLC at Super Nationals VIII | A Triumphant Return to the Big Stage!

Dear KLC Chess Players and Parents, GOOD NEWS!
Before we even had a chance to celebrate our wonderful results at the State Championship, our little chess warriors were already off to Orlando—ready to take on the highest-level national event: Super Nationals!

This prestigious national tournament took place in Orlando, right next to the magical world of Disney—every child’s dream destination. And in this fairytale-like setting, our KLC kids played their hearts out and delivered an absolutely outstanding performance on this grand national stage!

Among the 90+ players representing California, KLC students made up nearly half the team! With their uniforms on and focus locked in, they marched into every match with confidence and determination—even in the face of the fiercest competition.

But this trip was not just about competing—it was a truly precious journey of growth.
Our children gained trophies, built friendships, and became braver through every smile, challenge, and tear.

 KLC at Super Nationals VIII | A Triumphant Return to the Big Stage!

After a seven-year wait, Super Nationals VIII — the largest and most prestigious scholastic chess tournament in the U.S. — finally made its long-anticipated return!
Originally held every four years, this historic event brought together the nation’s best young chess talents from elementary to high school.

This year, KLC players brought their passion, skill, and resilience to the board — and lit up the arena! 

 Highlights from KLC's outstanding performance:

   Carlo Feng claimed 1st place in the K-6 U1200 section with 6.5 points! 
   Samuel Zhihan Xu captured 2nd place in the K-3 Championship section! 
   Young Cui scored 6.0 points to finish 4th place in the K-5 Championship, and also won 3rd place in the highly competitive Puzzle Grades  K-6 contest! Ashvika Ramakrishnan earned 4th place in the K-8 U1100 section
   Sanvi Pawar secured 5th place in the K-6 U1200 section
   Pranav Anandakumar placed 5th in the K-12 U800 section
   Ansh Shah finished 7th in the K-8 U1400 section
   Sreyshthaa Krishnan took 12th place in the K-3 Championship section
   Dhyan Pratheesh secured 10th place in the K-1 Championship section
   Raghav Sandeep placed 14th in the K-12 U1200 section
   Tejas Reddy finished 16th in the K-3 U600 section
   Medha Balaji placed 15th in the K-3 U600 section
   Anish Nalakonda achieved 10th place in the K-8 U1700 section
   Kayden Pak Mo finished 11th in the K-8 U1700 section
   Matthew Wang secured 12th place in the K-1 Championship section
   Patrick Liu placed 14th in the K-8 Championship section
   Ethan Bu tied for 25th place in the K-1 U500 section
   Prahalad Raghavendran tied for 20th place in the K-6 U1200 section
   Aryaman Majumder finished 18th in the K-8 U1400 section

Beyond individual achievements, Aryaman Majumder and Gloria She proudly represented Fallon Middle School, leading their team to a fantastic 9th place finish in the K-8 U1400 team competition!

From approximately 100 participants representing California, KLC players made up nearly half of the delegation, once again proving KLC’s strength, depth, and commitment to excellence.

Every point earned was a battle. Every handshake was a mark of growth. At Super Nationals VIII, KLC didn't just compete — we made our mark on history. Onward to the next summit! 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing chess moms!

— With gratitude,

🏆KLC Exciting News! 🏆 National Champion: Matthew Wang！

Dear KLC Chess families,
​
The 2024 National Grade Level Chess Championship concluded successfully last weekend. KLC proudly fielded a team of 33 players, with 67% of Northern California participants representing the KLC Team!
We are thrilled to announce that our six-year-old superstar, Matthew Wang, emerged as the 1st Grade National Champion, achieving an unbeaten score of 6 wins and 1 draw in 7 rounds. Another outstanding player, Varun, secured 7th place nationally with 6 wins in 7 rounds. In the 2nd Grade section, Harrison claimed the National Runner-Up title with an impressive 6 victories in 7 rounds.
Altogether, our players earned 11 medals, showcasing exceptional skill and determination.
USCF NEWS:Flash Report: 2024 National K-12 Grade Championships | US Chess.org
​
🏆♟Congratulations to all our amazing KLC players—you’re the best! We’re so proud to share this thrilling moment and incredible achievements with everyone. 🏆♟
6th Grade:
               •             Felix Chen – 1st in Rating Section (1100-1399), Total: 280 players
               •             Ivan Tam – 3rd in Rating Section (1100-1399), Total: 280 players
5th Grade:
               •             Aaditya Ravikiran – 30th place in Top 30, 38th overall out of 327 players
               •             Peter Xu – 3rd in Rating Section (800-1099), Total: 327 players
4th Grade:
               •             Sanvi Pawar – 1st in Rating Section (800-1099), Total: 349 players
3rd Grade:
               •             Samuel Zhihan Xu – 11th place in Top 25, 11th overall out of 321 players
               •             Sreyshthaa Krishnan – 25th place in Top 25, 38th overall out of 321 players
2nd Grade:
               •             Harrison Cai – 2nd place out of 252 players
               •             Keller Ma – 14th place in Top 25, 14th overall out of 252 players
               •             Rosalyn Chu – 24th place in Top 25, 24th overall out of 252 players
1st Grade:
               •             Matthew Wang – National Co-Champion, Total: 175 players
               •             Varun Karthik Turaga – 7th place, Total: 175 players
               •             Ryan Shelar – 3rd place (U600), Total: 175 players
This national championship is one of the highest-level chess competitions in the United States, with over 2,700 players participating. KLC's success today is a result of the dedication and hard work of our coaches, parents, and students.
Let’s continue to strive and prepare diligently for the next national tournament. I am planning to lead our KLC team to participate in the SuperNationals in May 2025, held once every four years. I encourage and support our students to join our training programs and competitions as we work towards achieving even greater success.
️Thank you to all the KLC players and Parents! 

Coach Kiki 
Founder of KLC, FIDE Trainer 
Instructor of FIDE trainers seminar 

KLC Super GM Simultaneous: The Youngest Grandmaster Bu Xiangzhi is visiting!

King’s Land Chess - Pleasanton Campus
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Registration Link: Super GM Bu Xiangzhi Simultaneous on 12/17/24 5-8p.m

​Join us for a special event featuring Grandmaster Bu Xiangzhi, the Youngest Grandmaster in the world, with an impressive FIDE rating of 2735. He made history at just 13 years, 10 months, and 13 days old and now holds the title of Blindfold Chess World Champion.
Date: December 17, 2024 (Tuesday)
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Schedule:
  • 5:00 PM: Check-in and Group Photo
  • 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM: Simultaneous Chess Matches
  • 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Q&A Session
Location:
King’s Land Chess - Pleasanton Campus
1024 Serpentine Ln, Suite #101, Pleasanton, CA 94566 (map)

Fee: $80 per player
Please send payment via Zelle to the King’s Land Chess (KLC) account: Click here to show mail address.
Please include the player’s full name and USCF ID# in the payment notes.

Register now:
Seats are limited, so please fill out the Google form：Super GM Bu Xiangzhi Simultaneous on 12/17/24 5-8p.m

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to meet and learn from one of the greatest chess prodigies in the world!

About GM Bu Xiangzhi click：https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bu_Xiangzhi

​KLC NEWS! Patrick Liu won the GOLD medal at the Pan-American Youth Championship！

Outstanding Achievement by KLC Chess Prodigy Patrick Liu at the Pan-American Youth Chess Championship!
Congratulations to our KLC Chess School player, Patrick Liu, for his stellar performance at the Pan-American Youth Chess Championship! Patrick maintained an unbeaten record, securing 6 wins and 3 draws over 9 rounds to clinch the U12 championship title. This remarkable achievement comes on the heels of his impressive third-place finish in the U10 category at the 2022 World Cadet Championship. With this victory, Patrick has also earned the prestigious FIDE Master title!
Patrick has been a dedicated student at KLC since the age of five, receiving personalized instruction from Coach Kiki and participating in our group lessons. His rapid progress led to his selection for the TEAM USA/GATE accelerated program, where he consistently excelled and advanced through the ranks.
Patrick Liu's performances include:
  1. Consistently ranked No#1 in the USA age categories (7, 9, 10, 11 years old) in the US Chess Federation monthly ratings.
  2. Member of the All-American Team by age group.
  3. Bronze medalist at the World Cadet U10 Championship.
  4. Gold medalist at the Pan-American U12 Championship.
  5. FIDE Master Title
Patrick will proudly represent KLC and Team USA at this year’s World Cadet Championship in Italy. We eagerly anticipate his continued success and wish him the best of luck!
Congratulations, Patrick Liu! Congratulations, KLC Team! 

Meet GM Hou Yifan: Elevate Your Chess Journey at KLC Summer Camps!

Exclusive Gift: Signed Photo with GM Hou Yifan and Chess Board with signature.​

​We are honored to announce that the four-time world champion and the highest-ranked women chess player in the world, GM Hou Yifan will be visiting KLC summer camps, 7/15 – 7/18/24 in Fremont and 7/22 – 7/25/24 in Pleasanton. We welcome all levels young chess enthusiasts to join us and spend the summer with world champion GM Hou Yifan. ​​Seats are limited, so register early to secure your spot.

To register, please choose Pleasanton Summer Camp or Fremont Summer Camp, then select World Champion Camp. ​​
​Students will be placed into groups based on their ability.

KLC Students Shine at FIDE World Cadets Chess Championship 2022

15-28 of September, after 11 rounds of exciting chess battles, KLC students shine at FIDE World Cadets Chess championship 2022 in Batumi, Georgia. FIDE World Cadets Chess Championship is the highest level chess tournament in the world for youth players under 12 years old. There are 6 sections in this great event, Girls U8, Open U8, Girls U10, Open U10, Girls U12 and Open U12. This year, a total of 735 young players from all over the world participated. There are 26 players in the US Team, and almost 1/4 of the team are KLC students.
 
In Open U10, Patrick Liu won world 3rd place with 8.5 points. Patrick is the US Team OR of 2022 and member of All American Team.
                      Maxwell Yang won 6th place with 8.5 points (former students 2020-2022).
In Girls U10, Iris Li placed 11th with 7.5 points. Iris is the US Team OR of 2022.
                     Ruyi Hu placed 69th with 4.5 points.
In Open U8,  Indukuri Suhas placed 8th with 8 points.
                     Lerui Zheng placed 33rd with 6.5 points.
                     Yinuo Hu placed 132nd with 3.5 points.
After the 8th round, Suhas was sick and almost went to emergency. With strong mental strength, he fought to the end, and gained 3 points in the last 4 rounds, ranked 8th place among 150 chess players. Congratulations to all the players. You all have put in the courage and put in the effort, so now it’s your time to shine!
 
In 2022, KLC had 10 students qualified for the US official Representatives (US Team). They earned this honor by meeting the peak post-tournament (PPT) rating and activity criteria in the age and gender categories according to the Scholastic National Invitational Event and Award Requirements and subsequent Executive Board motion to adjust the rating and activity requirement periods.​

​Living The Dream

Chess Life and Chess Life Kids are official magazines published by the United States Chess Federation.  ​On Chess Life 2015 edition First Moves page, author Jamaal Abdul-Alim wrote an article named Living the Dream ​about KLC chess cultural exchange program and Coach Kiki Chen. 
​《CHESS LIFE》是美国国际象棋协会官方发布的国际象棋杂志，已有70多年的历史，是美国最权威的国际象棋杂志。被称为“世界阅读最多的国际象棋杂志”每月阅读量超过25万。​美国国际象棋协会记者Jamaal Abdul-Alim 先生对King’s Land Chess 扬“帆”棋航中美文化交流项目产生了浓厚的兴趣，他特别采访了KLC项目策划人Kiki女士并在去年12月的杂志上发布了《Living The Dream》。文章生动的介绍了Kiki教练的童年，策划此项目的初衷以及她在美国青少年国际象棋发展做出的贡献。