When considering a place to go on a golfing holiday excursion, Japan is typically not the first destination in mind. This country is so often skipped for its golf-related tourism yet it is highly underrated. There are many other sports that take the spotlight in Japan, however, golf is quite popular here which means incredible golf courses.
Karuizawa, Nagano is only about 90 minutes away from Tokyo by train and is a golfer’s paradise. Known for its abundance in outdoor activities, golfing takes centre stage during the warmer months for both tourists and locals alike. There are five major golf courses in Karuizawa, all offering their own spectacular golfing experiences.
Seizan Golf Course
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Seizan Golf Course offers a relaxing, picturesque view while playing and traversing around the park. The course does not allow electric carts however, it is mostly flat which makes it pleasantly walkable and ideal for beginners.
Karuizawa 72 Golf
Out of all of the courses on this list, if you are looking for an epic golfing holiday with enough things to do to last you the week then you need to head to Karuizawa 72 Golf. Choose from six individual courses dictated by your personal skill level and spend the day golfing while enjoying views of Mount Asama.
Each 18-hole course provides its own distinct set of challenges, you can truly feel spoiled after maneuvering around the four quarters of this expansive park. The Kita Course in the North offers the most challenging experience at a professional level. In the East, you will find the Iriyama and Oshitate Courses which are also quite difficult and ready to make you work to achieve a perfect par.
The West also has two courses; the Gold and the Blue Course: which are ideal for beginners or just a more relaxed round of golf. Lastly, the Minami Course in the South is made with the mid-tier player in mind.
There are five different hotels that you can stay at on the property, all at which are only a 10-minute drive away to any course.
Karuizawa Prince Hotel Golf Course
The small, 9-hole course located on the grounds of the Karuizawa Hotel will give you a nice casual game of golf while enjoying the scenery. You can rent golf clubs here as well if you need to which makes it quite convenient to take part in a breezy afternoon game.
Attached to this course is a stunning Japanese garden that you can stroll around before or after your game.
Karuizawa Asama Golf Course
Karuizawa Asama Golf Course is located right at the Karuizawa Asama Prince Hotel which was named after Mount Asama; an active volcano that rests near Karuizawa.
This 18-hole course is unique in the area as it is made for pairs, providing golf carts that only seat two people. Take your favorite golfing companion with you and enjoy a round of golf on the Asama Golf Course.
Magoe Golf Course
Last but certainly not least, Magoe Golf Course is another laid back, 9-hole course situated in the Karuizawa Highlands. Self-guided carts are provided and the well-cared-for turf makes it easy to get around the course.
What was once an extension of the Karuizawa 72 Golf Course is now maintained for casual play but still respected by expert golfers. They even allow and encourage children to stop by and learn the game of golf here at Magoe Golf Course.
How to Get to Karuizawa, Japan
The most convenient and amusing way to get to Karuizawa from Tokyo is to ride the Shinkansen. From JR Tokyo Station, you want to take the Hokuriku Shinkansen all the way to Karuizawa. One way will cost you about $60 USD. A JR Pass or JR Tokyo Wide Pass will also cover this route to Nagano.
When to Go
Nagano sees quite a bit of snow during the wintertime. While this makes an excellent condition to ski and snowboard in, golfing will be a bit less pleasant. That is why these golf courses are only open from the middle of April until November.
The best time to visit Karuizawa is debatable depending on what you are planning to do there. Golfers tend to like the spring and fall due to mild temperatures and less rainy days that allow them to go out and enjoy a round or two.
So regardless if you are a seasoned golfer or just getting into the sport, Karuizawa has a golf course for you. Spend a few days here to take in the sites, play a couple of rounds, and soak in the natural hot springs. Karuizawa’s impressive courses will make you reconsider Japan for your next golfing getaway abroad.
