What is the minimum equipment I need to start playing xiangqi?
These answers restate the rules implemented by our open-source engine, which follows the WXF laws and is regression-tested against the official 110-diagram repetition casebook. Where an answer refers to a specific position, that position lives on the linked reference page, where the build verifies it against the engine before publishing.
Direct answer
Nothing, if you start online, a browser is the whole kit. For physical play, the minimum is a board (paper or vinyl is fine) and a set of 32 pieces. A clock is optional for casual games and only becomes necessary once you are playing under a time control.
Why physical equipment can be cheap without being worse
A paper roll-up board with plastic discs plays exactly as well as an expensive wooden folding set with hardwood pieces, and costs a small fraction of the price. See board setup for what a full set actually needs to include.
What you genuinely do not need at the start
A clock, a scorebook, a rating, or fluency in Chinese characters. All of these matter eventually for some players and none of them are required to play a real, complete game today.
Related questions
Do I need an internet connection to play?
Only for online or human opponents. Playing the computer can work offline once the page has loaded.
Is a physical set worth buying if I mostly play online?
Useful for teaching others in person or for park and club play, but not necessary if your play is entirely online.
.