What season is best to play golf in Japan? Where in Japan is the best place to play golf in different seasons?

The ranking of golf course booking difficulty and fee levels in the Kanto and Kansai regions is as follows: 

Autumn > Spring ≥ Winter ≥ Summer

The ranking of golf course booking difficulty and fee levels in Hokkaido is as follows: 

Summer > Spring > Autumn > Winter

The ranking of golf course booking difficulty and fee levels in Okinawa is as follows: 

Winter > Spring > Autumn > Summer

- Autumn –

Depending on the region, considering the overall experience, the best season for golf, according to BaiGolf, is autumn! From October to early December, playing under the crisp, clear autumn skies is a truly wonderful experience. During autumn weekends and holidays, most courses are nearly full, so it's recommended to book early. If you plan to organize multiple tournaments, it's best to start preparations two months in advance during the summer. 

Western Japan, including Kyoto and Nara prefectures, boasts renowned golf courses famous for their autumn foliage. Especially in Kyoto Prefecture, you can tee off in areas dotted with historical buildings, appreciating both Japanese culture and natural beauty. The Kanto region also offers courses that can be combined with autumn foliage viewing, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a leisurely time.

- Spring –

Several years ago, spring was considered a peak season alongside autumn. However, due to factors such as hay fever sufferers avoiding spring, slightly unstable weather, and busy work schedules at the start of the new year, spring no longer presents the difficulties of booking or exorbitant golf fees. For groups considering cost-effectiveness, spring travel is worth considering.

Spring is the season when cherry blossoms dance with new greenery. The Kanto region, in particular, boasts numerous courses surrounded by cherry blossom-lined paths. For example, a golf club in Chiba Prefecture is famous for its ability to play amidst blooming cherry blossoms. A round on a fairway with falling cherry blossoms is sure to be an unforgettable experience. In the highlands of Niigata and Nagano prefectures, there are courses situated beside clear streams where snow melts, allowing you to enjoy your round in an atmosphere of harmony with nature.

- Winter –

The winter season is often avoided by advanced players and older golfers due to factors such as limited physical activity, shorter driving distances, and increased risk of injury. While winter is considered the off-season for golf (except in Okinawa where winter is peak season), it also has many advantages. However, in areas without snowfall, the scarce rainfall and stable weather make them surprisingly worthwhile. Especially when the fairway grass is shorter, beginners can make better use of the course and are more likely to achieve their personal best. However, greens may be icy when teeing off at 7 am, so it's recommended to tee off later, after 9 am.

For those looking to escape the cold winter, the southern regions are recommended. Okinawa Prefecture and southern Kyushu (Fukuoka, Kagoshima, etc.) have relatively warm weather year-round, making golf enjoyable year-round. Especially in Okinawa Prefecture, you can tee off on courses laid along the beautiful coastline while enjoying picturesque scenery. In addition, the region's distinctive seafood cuisine is equally appealing, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while traveling.

- Summer –

In recent years, the Kanto and Kansai regions have experienced excessively hot summers, resulting in very low popularity for tee times after 8 am. Instead, early bird tee times in the early morning are extremely popular. Booking early morning tee times in popular areas on weekends is difficult, so please pay special attention. If you choose to tee off at 10:00 AM, please be sure to take adequate precautions against the heat.

Recommended Summer Retreats: 

Shizuoka Prefecture, at the foot of Mount Fuji, boasts numerous golf courses scattered across its slightly higher elevations. The cool and pleasant summer climate makes it a true golfing paradise. On clear days, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Mount Fuji.

Hokkaido and the Tohoku region (Iwate and Akita prefectures) are also highly popular. These areas, with their cool climates and expansive natural scenery, are dotted with highland resort-style golf courses. Especially in Hokkaido, you can tee off on courses surrounded by magnificent lakes and mountains, offering breathtaking views that will leave you feeling refreshed. Teeing off in the early morning is highly recommended; the dew-kissed greens and fresh air will invigorate your mind and body.

The stunning scenery doesn't stop! Key considerations for choosing a golf course

Don't just focus on the scenery, but also pay attention to the unique hospitality and facilities of the area. Some high-end resort courses offer spas and luxurious accommodations, allowing you to relax all day. Furthermore, courses with extensive tournament experience can help improve your skills and are worth challenging yourself with. Transportation is crucial. Courses closer to the city offer convenient access, while those further away from the city offer a richer natural environment. Choosing a course based on your personal preferences and purpose will lead to greater satisfaction.

Here's a guide to recommended golf courses in various regions of Japan, curated by the BaiGolf Customization Department!

-Tokyo-

-Osaka-

-Mt. Fuji-

-Gotemba-

-Hokkaido-

-Okinawa-

-Fukuoka-

-Hokuriku-

-Kyushu (excluding Fukuoka)-

-Nagoya-

-Karuizawa-

-Kanagawa-

-Shikoku-

Golfing Tips in Japan Throughout the Year

■ Spring

With its warm spring sunshine, spring is one of the best seasons for golf.

- Cherry blossom season offers a unique experience where you can enjoy cherry blossoms while playing golf. Bring your camera and enjoy your game with a picnic-like atmosphere.

- However, getting too engrossed in taking photos might disturb the groups in front and behind you. The sound of shutter clicking near the golfer can also distract them, so please avoid this. Let's enjoy the sport while respecting etiquette.

- Spring is also pollen season, so those with hay fever should take precautions. Prepare allergy medication, masks, sunglasses, and moisturizing wipes.

- Most courses increase their fees in March, so it's recommended to book your rounds before February 28th. To continue enjoying discounts in March, consider courses that have reopened after their winter closure.

■ Summer

While summer brings heat and UV rays, the lush greenery and natural scenery are particularly beautiful. Prepare for a comfortable swing and enjoy!

- Rising temperatures and increased humidity in summer significantly increase the risk of heatstroke.

- Harder greens make the ball roll more smoothly, making adjusting your putting feel especially important.

- Stay hydrated! Cold drinks are essential during your swing. Consider freezing your sports drinks and bringing them with you! It's recommended to bring plenty.

- Salted candies for heatstroke prevention are also highly recommended!

- Many golfers like to have an ice-cold beer during their lunch break, but be aware that the diuretic effect of alcohol can exacerbate dehydration.

- Summer UV rays are strong, so please take precautions against sunburn: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, arm sleeves, etc.

■ Autumn

Autumn is also a golden season for golf, with the most captivating scenery being the autumn foliage.

- On a forest course surrounded by mountains, you can enjoy the vibrant autumn colors while playing your golf club.

- Autumn is also a season for culinary delights, so it's recommended to allow ample time to enjoy your trip like a traveler.

- Please note: Do not disturb golfers while taking photos. Do not let your focus on taking pictures affect the groups of players ahead and behind you!

- Sunset is early; finding your ball will become significantly more difficult after 4 PM.

- Lower temperatures cause rubber to harden, shortening the ball's flight distance. This is a good opportunity to re-evaluate your club selection and hitting strategy.

- Traffic jams are common! We recommend booking a tee time before 9:30 AM to ensure you can complete 18 holes.

■ Winter

Golf courses covered in snow has a unique charm. When playing golf in winter, be sure to take precautions against the cold and wind. Remember to warm up and stretch thoroughly before you start swinging!

- Strong winds can quickly deplete your body heat, so please prepare windproof gear.

- In addition to keeping warm while hitting the ball, hand warmers, gloves, and other protective gear are essential.

- Bring a thermos filled with hot drinks to warm your body from the inside out.

- When heavy clothing restricts physical movement, the hitting distance is usually reduced by about one stroke, so club selection requires extra care.

- In winter, greens and bunkers may become icy, so please be extra careful than usual. (Except in Okinawa)

Summary

Golf offers different scenery and enjoyment in every season.

Kanto and Kansai regions: Spring and autumn offer a comfortable swing experience, but are more expensive. Summer and winter, while slightly harsher, offer more affordable golf experiences.

Kyushu region: Enjoy golf all year round.

Mount Fuji, Hokkaido, and Okinawa: Prices vary significantly between peak and off-peak seasons due to high foot traffic; choose what suits your needs!

Spring's verdant greens, summer's clear blue skies, autumn's vibrant red leaves, winter's snowy landscapes—explore ways to play that match the seasons to perfect your golf experience.

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