Question 1

Q1: How long does it take to get to the golf clubs from major cities in Japan?

Accepted Answer

A1: The travel time varies based on your hotel location. Here are some examples:

Sapporo: 45-60 min
Tokyo: 60-90 min (often driving to neighbouring prefectures like Chiba and Saitama)
Hakone: 15-30 min
Kyoto: 20-45 min
Osaka: 45-90 min
Kobe: 30-60 min
Fukuoka: 30-60 min
Okinawa: 30-60 min

Question 2

Q2: Are there any dress codes at golf clubs in Japan?

Accepted Answer

A2: Most golf courses have a traditional dress code that must be followed:

Denim, tracksuits, tennis wear, sandals, sneakers, and metal spikes are not permitted.
Men wearing Bermuda shorts may be required to wear knee-length socks.
Shirts should have collars and be either long or short-sleeved.
Hats must be removed when inside the restaurant. 
In the Kansai area, hats or caps may be mandatory during the round at certain courses for safety reasons.

In the clubhouse:
All golfers are required to wear jackets when entering the clubhouse. Though it may seem unusual, it is a traditional and respectful practice in many Japanese golf clubs.

Question 3

Q3: What should I do when I arrive at the golf club?

Accepted Answer

A3: On arrival at the golf course, please check-in at the reception desk.  
You will need to fill out the entry forms with your names, phone number and address.

You will be given a numbered locker key, and this is how you will be identified and charged for any purchases in the pro shop, refreshment stands and restaurants.

Charges will be settled on checkout of the golf club.

Question 4

Q4: What are the caddies’ jobs?

Accepted Answer

A4: Some private clubs or higher-end public courses in Japan offer caddies. These caddies provide advice on club selection, course strategy, assist with carrying bags, reading greens, and help maintain the pace of play.

In Japan, it is typical to have one caddy per tee time.

While tipping isn't required, we recommend a tip of 1000 yen per player.

Question 5

Q5: Are there buggies?

Accepted Answer

A5: Many Japanese courses have 5-seater buggies.
These are unique with the electromagnetic induction system buried under the cart path; the buggy is then controlled either manually or by remote control.

Question 6

Q6: I’ve heard that at golf clubs in Japan, the golfers have lunch after 
9 holes. Is this true?

Accepted Answer

A6: Yes, it's customary to break for lunch after playing 9 holes. 
As you head to the restaurant, you'll receive a tee time for the back nine, allowing approximately 45 minutes for lunch.

Please proceed to the tee 5 minutes before the scheduled start time for the second nine.
 
The type of food offered can vary widely depending on the club, but it often includes a mix of traditional Japanese cuisine and Western-style dishes.

Question 7

Q7: I’ve heard that at golf clubs in Japan, the golfers enjoy public 
bath in the golf club. Is this true?

Accepted Answer

A7: Yes, after finishing a round of golf, many golfers enjoy the traditional 
bath found in every Japanese clubhouse.

Separate facilities are available for men and women.

We highly recommend trying this relaxing experience.

Question 8

Q8: How can I do that?

Accepted Answer

A8: Here's the procedure:

Bring your change of clothes from the locker with you to the bath area.
In the bath area, place your change of clothes in a basket on the shelves. Remove all clothing and place them there as well. Towels are provided in the changing room.
Before entering the shared bath, please thoroughly wash your body. Soap and shampoo are available for use in front of the mirrors. Be sure to rinse off any soap.
Relax in the hot, clear water for 5 to 10 minutes.
After bathing, dry off your body before entering the locker room.

Question 9

Q9: I’ve heard that there are some rules regarding tattoos in Japan. Is that true?

Accepted Answer

A9:  Yes. Tattoos are treated somewhat differently in Japan than in many other countries, and some golf clubs, hot springs, public baths and spa facilities have specific rules regarding them.At golf clubs, guests with tattoos are generally required to keep them fully covered at all times, including in the clubhouse and changing areas.When using public baths, hot springs or spa facilities, tattoos must be fully covered with a tattoo cover sticker or similar item. Guests with larger tattoos that cannot be fully covered may not be permitted to use these facilities.We kindly ask all guests to respect the rules of each facility during their stay in Japan.

Question 10

Q10: Do I need to have a handicap certificate?

Accepted Answer

A10:  Most of the clubs do not ask for Handicap Certificates, but some limit a player's handicap to 24.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Please find below a list of our FAQs, which will give you an idea of what it's like to play golf in Japan.