5 Things You Must Know Before Playing Golf in Japan

When people think about golf holidays, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, or even Taiwan often come to mind first. But did you know? Japan is quickly becoming the new favorite for high-end golf travelers. Why? Because the courses are stunning, the service is impeccable, and there's a sense of “Japanese precision” that runs through every part of the experience.

But golfing in Japan isn’t quite like anywhere else. If it’s your first time, here are 5 essential things you need to know before you tee off:

1. Tee Time Means TEE TIME. Being Late is a Big No-No.Japan takes time seriously—and nowhere more so than on the golf course. If your tee time is at 9:45, you’d better be ready by 9:45. Most courses ask you to arrive 40 to 60 minutes early.Being late could mean losing your entire tee time. No joke.Our tip? Confirm your pickup the night before. With our Chinese-speaking drivers, you’ll be on time—and stress-free.

2. A Mid-Round Lunch Break is Built Into the GameIn Japan, 18-hole rounds come with a mandatory 50-minute break between the front and back nine. This isn’t optional—it’s part of the schedule.Most golfers have lunch at the course restaurant (the food’s actually pretty good), or they just relax with a coffee.You can order your meal straight from the golf cart screen—and it’ll be ready when you walk in. It’s one of the little touches that make golf in Japan feel so well thought out.

3. No Caddies? No Problem. The Golf Carts Are Smart.Not all Japanese courses offer caddies—but don’t worry. Their carts are loaded with GPS, touchscreen ordering, live yardage info, and even Chinese language support.And the best part? They often drive themselves.So you can just focus on your swing—and maybe sip some water while you’re at it.

4. After the Game = Bath Time. Always.Almost every course in Japan comes with a large communal bath—many even have natural hot springs (onsen).This isn’t just for fancy clubs. It’s standard. Most Japanese golfers take a soak after their round—it’s for relaxing, socializing, and honestly, it's part of the golf culture here.Bring a change of clothes and a towel (though most courses provide them). It’s not just a bath—it’s part of the full Japan experience.

5. Book Everything in Advance—Hotels, Courses, and DriversJapanese golf courses are not walk-in friendly. Especially the good ones—like Kawana, Gotenba, or Sodegaura—you’ll need to book 2 to 4 weeks in advance.Hotels are the same. Popular resorts like Hoshino or the Mikazuki group are often full during peak seasons.And while driving is the easiest way to get to the course, Japan’s roads and parking rules are a maze—plus, the language barrier is real.That’s why we recommend going with a private car and English-speaking driver—just like what we offer.

At Miramar, we take care of everything: airport transfers, tee time reservations, hotel bookings, private drivers, and even your full itinerary planning. All you have to do is show up and enjoy.

Playing golf in Japan feels like stepping into a landscape painting.Take the Kawana Hotel Fuji Course, for example—where you can drive your ball with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Or the Taiheiyo Club Gotenba, where Mt. Fuji watches over you from the background.Each season paints the course in a different light—spring sakura blossoms, autumn leaves, even winter snowscapes.

Golfing in Japan isn’t just about the game. It’s a cultural experience.Everything is clean, organized, polite—and somehow just... right.Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner.

Ready to tick “Golf in Japan” off your bucket list?Contact Miramar Co., Ltd. and let us create the perfect golf holiday—crafted just for you.

https://www.mir768.com/en/golf-tours-japan