Top Golfing Spots in Kansai

Apr 30, 2024

Top Golfing Spots in Kansai

With almost 2,500 golf courses, Japan is a top destination for golfers. Some of the best clubs are in Kansai, which has courses everywhere from Hyogo to Mie.

1. Tsu Country Club

At Tsu Country Club in Mie prefecture, you’ll find an 18-hole championship course spanning a long 7,023 yards. In addition to the beautiful setting, the course has many features to challenge you, including a bent green, revetted bunker, and large pond. After playing a round, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at Katada Lodge, which has views of the 18th hole and beyond.

Where: 30 Katadahasecho, Tsu, Mie Prefecture (map)

Open Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday; 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Website: tsu.co.jp/

2. Hirono Golf Club

Built in 1932, Hirono Golf Club was designed by Charles Alison, an Englishman who was behind many of the courses in Japan. The club is located in Hyogo, conveniently just 15 miles from Kobe. Although it was requisitioned by the Imperial Air Force and used as a runway in World War II, it was later restored using the original plans — with just a few changes. Despite being shorter than some other courses (at 6,925 yards), it is considered one of the best in Japan (if not in all of Asia) for its beauty and the surprises along the course.

Where: 7-3 Shijimicho Hirono, Miki, Hyogo Prefecture (map)

Open Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Sunday
Website: hironogolfclub.jp

3. Naruo Golf Club

Another course in Hyogo prefecture is Naruo Golf Club, located in Kawanishi. It opened in 1920 (making it one of the oldest courses in the country) but was redesigned by Alison in 1931. The course is tough with many large, deep bunkers. The good news is you can take a break before the signature 15th hole at the tea house located right after the 14th. Plus, golfers have the option of a full lunch and onsen after nine holes.

Where: 1-4 Kanegaya, Nishiuneno, Kawanishi, Hyogo Prefecture (map)

Open Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Sunday

Website: www.naruogc.or.jp

4. Seta Golf Course

Despite its name, Seta Golf Course in Shiga is actually made up of three courses: the North Course, the East Course, and the West Course. Each has something different to offer, although all require you to be quite strategic. Golfers love coming back to the Seta Golf Course multiple times — not just to try all of the courses but also to enjoy the great food and excellent attention from staff. They also commend all three courses for being perfectly maintained throughout the year.

Where: 12 Seta Hashimotocho, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture (map)
Open Hours: 6:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Sunday
Website: www.princehotels.co.jp/golf/seta/

This is just a selection of some of the best golfing spots in Kansai. Since virtually every city in the region has at least a few golf courses, you’ll be able to play no matter where you are.

Donald J. Trump, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons