Your Guide to the Best Golf Courses in Japan 🇯🇵

Japan may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning your next golf trip. But it should be. For decades, golfers have flocked to the legendary courses of Scotland, the sun-soaked fairways of the U.S., and the breathtaking layouts of Australia. But in recent years, Japan has quietly emerged as one of the most exciting and sought-after golf destinations in the world.

With its rich golf history, meticulously maintained courses, and unparalleled hospitality, Japan offers an experience unlike any other. Here’s a closer look into why golf in Japan is on the rise – and where you should tee it up.

Why Japan is Becoming a Premier Golf Destination

Did you know there are more than 3,100 golf courses in Japan? That’s more than any other country outside the U.S. And the quality of golf is just as great as the quantity. You can tee off beneath the towering Mount Fuji, under a canopy of cherry blossom trees, or along the shores of the Pacific Ocean – the options are endless.

But, how do you get from coast to coast? Japan’s ultra-efficient transportation system makes it easy to hop from a round in Hokkaido’s cool summer climate to a sun-drenched course in Okinawa. Bullet trains whisk you between major destinations with barely a moment’s delay, domestic flights make even the farthest courses feel close, and local trains, shuttles, or even taxis ensure you’re never far from the first tee. 

And because Japan takes omotenashi, or “hospitality” as it’s often translated, to another level, every step of the journey feels effortless. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the little things: staff greeting you with a bow and a smile, and a clubhouse experience that feels more like a five-star resort than a typical 19th hole. Every detail is handled with care, not because it’s expected, but because it’s ingrained in the culture. Whether it’s a perfectly raked bunker, a warm towel waiting for you post-round, or the way no request ever feels like an inconvenience, golf in Japan isn’t just about the course – it’s about the experience, and that starts long before you step onto the first tee.

Japan’s place on golf’s world stage continues to grow, thanks to marquee events like the Baycurrent Classic (formerly known as the Zozo Championship) and homegrown stars like Hideki Matsuyama. But a golf trip to Japan is about more than just the game. After your round, you can unwind in an onsen, letting the warm mineral waters soothe you, or take a stroll through centuries-old temples, soaking in the peaceful surroundings. And when it’s time to refuel, Japan’s food scene won’t disappoint. From sushi and bowls of steaming ramen, to kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal that’s an art form in itself, there’s something for every taste.

The Golf Culture in Japan

Attention to detail, respect for tradition, and a deep appreciation for nature make playing golf in Japan a refined and elegant affair. Many private golf clubs in Japan are known for their strict adherence to etiquette, where formal attire, such as collared shirts, trousers, and proper footwear, is required. This dress code isn’t just about looking the part – it’s part of a broader culture that emphasizes respect for tradition and a deep reverence for the game’s history.

The traditional two-part golf round is another unique aspect of golf in Japan. Unlike the continuous 18-hole rounds in the West, Japanese golf clubs often have a mandatory break after the first nine holes, where players enjoy a meal before continuing their round. This break is meant to enhance the overall experience rather than disrupt the rhythm of play.

Discover more unique ways the best golf courses in Japan differ from the U.S. – you won’t believe how high-tech the automated golf carts are!

5 Best Golf Courses in Japan

1. Hirono Golf Club (Hyogo Prefecture)

Hirono Golf Club, founded in 1932, is a hallmark of Japanese golf. Designed by Charles Alison, a popular architect of Japanese golf courses, it’s a course that tests both skill and strategy, with dramatic green sites and deep bunkers. Despite suffering damage during World War II, Hirono remains one of the best golf courses in Japan, known for its blend of natural beauty and challenging design.

2. Kawana Hotel Golf Course – Fuji Course (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Often called “Japan’s Pebble Beach,” the Fuji Course at Kawana Hotel boasts dramatic coastal views, with Mount Fuji standing proudly in the background. Renowned for its striking “Alison bunkers” – named after course designer Charles Alison – this layout is one of Asia’s best. The course’s cliffside holes and ocean vistas make it a must-play for avid golfers seeking both a visual and technical challenge.

3. Naruo Golf Club (Hyogo Prefecture)

This exclusive, old-school course is another masterpiece by Charles Alison. While it may seem easy on paper due to its relatively short yardage, Naruo has teeth – specifically in the form of undulating terrain, blind shots, small greens, and Alison’s trademark bunkering.

4. Kasumigaseki Country Club (Saitama Prefecture)

Kasumigaseki Country Club is perhaps most famous for its role in hosting major international tournaments, including the 2021 Olympic Golf Competition. Its design, originally created by, you guessed it, Charles Alison, was later refined and reshaped to reflect a uniquely Japanese flair. This combination of Western influence and local sensibility results in a layout that’s both strategic and beautiful, with natural hazards and the surrounding landscape playing a pivotal role in the course’s challenge.

5. Tokyo Golf Club (Saitama Prefecture)

Much like its counterparts, Tokyo Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in Japan. Originally laid out by Charles Alison, Tokyo Golf Club was relocated during the war, and Komyo Ohtani played a pivotal role in its reimagining, carefully restoring Alison’s routing as much as possible. But one of the most unique (and slightly outdated) aspects of Tokyo Golf Club is its dual-green system. Each hole boasts two completely different green sites, one for summer and one for winter, to manage course wear and tear and allow the greens ample recovery time.

Planning Your Golf Trip to Japan

For those considering a golf trip to Japan, it’s best to plan in advance. Many of the best golf courses in Japan are private and require introductions or special arrangements. Fortunately, golf tour operators can help secure tee times and create customized itineraries that include golf, cultural experiences, and sightseeing.

And when it comes to getting your gear to Japan, ShipSticks makes it easy to ship your clubs directly to your destination. Say goodbye to lugging heavy bags through airports – with ShipSticks, you can travel hassle-free and focus on enjoying your round of golf in one of the most unique golfing destinations in the world.

With its growing international appeal and unparalleled attention to detail, it’s time to put the best golf courses in Japan on your bucket list for an unforgettable golf getaway.