About Japanese Golf

Golf in Japan

Did you know? Along with baseball, sumo, and football, golf is one of the most popular sports in Japan for both leisure and professionals. Japan has the second largest number of golfers in the world, and the third largest number of golf courses in the world at over 2,000! You can expect playing golf on hot sunny days in summer.

What Is Different Playing Golf in Japan?

• When you arrive, you must check-in at the front desk.
• There is a stricter dress code to follow in Japan. For e.g., you need to wear something like a collared shirt and trousers, and you are allowed to dress up in shorts and a polo shirt in summer.
• There is a place called a 'Caddy Master Room' where you can obtain score cards (if not already installed in the carts). This room is where other golfers' progression through the course is monitored by the staff, so waiting here reduces the start time of your round to a minimum. The friendly staff will also be able to answer any questions about the course.
• In Japan, it is common for a caddy to drive you around the course. When you are ready to play, you need to report to the caddy master room.
• 'Championship tees' or 'back tees' must be arranged in advance, usually at the caddy master room.
• In Japan, it is common to have a lunch break after the front nine. You can enjoy delicious Japanese food at restaurants on the course.
• After finishing a round of golf, we usually relax in 'Onsen' hot springs at the golf course.
• Payments are usually made after playing.
• There is a unique rule called "Playing 4" when you hit Out-of-Bounds (OB) on the first shot, your next shot becomes your 4th tee, and is taken from a special point on the field (The special tee is shown with yellow stakes).
• You might find multiple sub-greens on courses. This allows some of the greens to 'rest up' so the course can be kept tidy all year.