2020-01-17

Best Golf Courses in Japan

  • Advice

How do we rank and rate golf courses? Is it the layout? Do amenities, level of service, and scenery play a part in our estimation? Do we factor in the in-house pro or quality of club members? Whatever criteria you may prefer, there is no denying that the following courses are simply the best in Japan.


• Miho Golf Club | Ibaraki

This 7,010 yards, par 72 course was designed by renowned course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1993. According to professionals, the course offers a perfect balance between caution and adventure; you can get pars at every hole with just a little bravery—or get punished for your audacity.

The toughest hole here is the 560 yards, par 5 13th hole. The fairway is deceptive, as the clear approach path on the right of the follow-up shot is fenced by trees. The key is to slightly under-hit the long drive and go for par in later shots. The 15th hole is probably the loveliest, due to the thick rows of trees on each side of the fairway and a beautiful water hazard.

Miho Golf ClubIs there a better vacation than a golf vacation?

• Takebenomori Golf Club | Okayama

With the majestic Kibikogen Highlands serving as a backdrop to the lush mature woodlands girdling the 7,514 yards course, one could be forgiven for thinking that the Takebenomori Golf Club is a forest reserve. Despite the scenic views and tranquility, the par 72 course requires a balanced skill set of driving and putting to master. Don’t hand out pats on the back too early though – the 581 yards, par 5 17th hole could get you in a world of trouble.

Takebenomori Golf Club

Revel in the view of the countryside in Takebe during your drive to the course. "Kawaguchi, Takebe" by fukufuku1 is licensed under CC 3.0 

• Hirono Golf Club | Kobe

By most accounts, this is the best player’s course in the country. Designed in 1932 by legendary course architect Charles Hugh Alison, one of the all-time greats, Hirono Golf Club boasts fast greens guarded by strategically-placed bunkers and fairways guarded by imperious walls of pine trees. You will need time and patience to master this course, but the payoff will be so worth it.

Hirono Golf ClubThe clubhouse may not look that grand from a far, but get ready to be blown away by the course. "Hirono Golf Club" by MTI is licensed under CC 3.0 


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