What are the best courses in the land of the rising sun? Let’s take a look here.
The Best Golf Courses In Japan
A country that has produced some quality golfers in the men’s and women’s game, Japan probably does not get that much recognition in terms of its golf courses.
Given the Olympic Games (opens in new tab) is heading there in 2021, we have looked to rectify that somewhat by taking a look at some of the best golf courses in the land of the rising sun.
Hirono
Often called the Pine Valley (opens in new tab) of Japan, Hirono is believed to be the best golf course in Japan and the finest work by C.H. Alison.
The design is spectacular thanks to the hilly pine forest dissected by gulley’s, valleys and the occasional green complex perched on top of a ridge.
Kawana (Fuji)
This very pretty part of south Japan hugs the coast, with Kawana enjoying splendid elevated views out over the Pacific. The Fuji course came after the original Oshima course and opened in 1936. It is the handiwork of Charles Alison, a close associate of Harry Colt (opens in new tab).
Yokohama (West)
Founded in 1960, Yokohama Country Club has two courses, the East and West, with the latter being of higher quality. Architect Takeo Aiyama designed both and the West would go on to host several professional tournaments, such as the 1978 Japan Open which was one of Seve Ballesteros’ first wins as a professional. Architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw (opens in new tab) have been tasked with renovating the course.
Naruo
Naruo is one of the oldest courses in Japan. It was founded in 1920 but it was 11 years later that it became more prominent with C.H. Alison working on it. Naruo is famed for its small greens and irregular shaped bunkers.
Oarai
Oarai is located right on the shores of the Pacific to the North-east of Tokyo and despite having ample trees on site the winds can occasionally howl through the course to drastically affect scoring.
It was designed by Seiichi Inoue and opened in 1953.
Abiko
Founded in 1930, the Second World War drastically affected the course as much of the land was handed…
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