.jpg)
We’re looking back at one of our most unforgettable golf journeys—our 2024 Japan Golf Tour. Just a few months ago, a group of golfers set out on an adventure through Japan, playing some of the country’s most prestigious private courses, indulging in world-class cuisine, and immersing themselves in a culture that treats golf as an art form.
Now, as we prepare for our 2025 Japan Golf Tour, we’re reliving the moments that made last year’s trip so special. If you’ve ever considered joining us, now is the time—with only 4 spots left, this could be your last chance to experience Japan in 2025 - click here to view tour details.
Let’s take a walk through the journey…
Kobe – Where It All Began
The journey started with an unforgettable welcome dinner in Kobe, home to the world’s most sought-after beef. In a private dining room, we watched a master chef—who had honed his craft for decades—slice and sear the finest cuts of Kobe beef to perfection. Each bite melted in our mouths, complemented by a selection of local sake, beer, and whisky. As we enjoyed our meal, we introduced ourselves, swapped golf stories, and shared our excitement for the days ahead.
The next morning, we teed off at Rokko Kokusai Golf Club, starting with the West Course—a perfect introduction to Japanese golf traditions. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this was unlike anywhere we had played before.
Here, golf is not just a sport; it’s an experience.
Gents donned blazers, ladies dressed the part, and we formally checked in at the clubhouse before being escorted to private locker rooms to change. It felt less like checking into a golf course and more like stepping into a five-star luxury hotel.
From the clubhouse, the fairways stretched out like emerald-green carpets, perfectly manicured. As we met our caddies, their level of dedication stood out—bowing, greeting us with warm smiles, and preparing for the round with absolute professionalism. Someone asked, “Do we tip them like in Southeast Asia?” The answer: No. In Japan, caddies take immense pride in their work. Their reward is delivering the best possible experience, the best way to thank them isn’t a tip (as they’ll most likely refuse) but a small, thoughtful gift will be very appreciated.
The West Course was challenging but fair, rewarding good shot-making without punishing mistakes too harshly—the perfect warm-up for what was to come.
The next day, we stepped onto the East Course - a true championship test, a course that had hosted the Japan Open, where legends of the game had walked these very fairways. Precision was everything.
Later that evening we stepped aboard our Kobe Dinner Cruise which was the perfect way to unwind. Sailing past the twinkling city skyline, we enjoyed an interactive teppanyaki dining experience, reminiscing about our best shots of the day.
For our final round in Kobe, we played Golden Valley Golf Club, saving the best for last.
As our bus wound through the mountains, anticipation grew with every turn. Then, suddenly, it appeared—lush greens standing out in the valley below, framed by towering peaks. A wave of excitement swept through the bus as we took in the breathtaking scene.
We stepped off the bus, taking in the pristine fairways, the clubhouse perched atop a rise, and the breathtaking 18th hole, modeled after Pebble Beach’s own finishing hole. Below, the lake shimmered in the afternoon sun, a perfect contrast to the lush green of the course.
From the opening tee shot to the final putt, Golden Valley was unforgettable. It was the kind of course that etches itself into your memory forever.
Kyoto – Tradition and Tranquility
Golf may have been the focus, but as we left Kobe behind, we journeyed to Kyoto, where we stepped back in time. We wandered through the golden elegance of Kinkakuji, stood beneath the endless torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and experienced Kyoto’s rich culinary scene, savoring the depth of local flavors.
The day ended in Nishiki Market, where we tasted Kyoto’s finest sake and sampled local delicacies before returning to the hotel, our minds still soaking in the magic of Japan’s cultural heart.
Tokyo – A City of Contrasts
A bullet train ride later, we arrived in Tokyo, a city that pulses with energy. One moment, we stood in the middle of Shibuya Crossing, watching thousands move in perfect chaos. The next, we sipped cocktails on a rooftop bar, gazing over the glowing skyline.
From the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku to the quiet serenity of the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo was a city of contrasts—modern and traditional, fast-paced yet deeply refined.
But the best golf of the trip was still to come.
Hakone – Golf With a View of Mt. Fuji
After a few days of sightseeing and rest, Hakone welcomed us back to golf with breathtaking mountain landscapes.
The first course we played was Gotemba West, renowned for its spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. There’s something surreal about standing on the tee, the legendary peak towering in the distance, taking a deep breath before launching your drive into the fairway.
Then came Daihakone Country Club, regarded as Hakone’s finest course. Every hole presented a challenge, but the highlight was the legendary “Lotus Flower” hole, its green seemingly floating above the landscape. The mountains enveloping Daihakone made it feel as if we were playing golf inside a painting, where every shot was framed by breathtaking, picture-perfect scenery.
On our final night, we gathered for a farewell dinner, reflecting on the friendships formed, the shots we’d never forget, and the memories we’d take home. The drinks flowed, the celebrations stretched into the early hours—this was a journey that would stay with us forever.
For many, this wasn’t goodbye—it was simply, "see you next time."
Will You Be With Us This Year?
The 2025 Japan Golf Tour is set to be just as spectacular, and with only 4 spots left, this is your chance to experience it for yourself.
Join us for a journey that blends world-class golf, seamless luxury, and the magic of Japan. We’ll handle every detail—you just show up and enjoy the experience.
