Common Questions Foreigners Have About Playing Golf in Japan

768miramar
Aug 18
2 min read

Updated: Aug 23

Playing golf in Japan is a dream for many golfers. But for first-timers, there are often lots of concerns: language barriers, transportation, membership rules. This guide answers the most common questions to help you plan your Japan golf trip with peace of mind.

Q1: Can foreigners book Japanese golf courses directly?

A: Not all courses accept foreign bookings. Many prestigious clubs require member introductions, or only accept reservations via Japanese platforms.Solution: Using a professional travel agency (like our tours) ensures advance booking and confirmation.

Q2: Do I need to speak Japanese to play?

A: No. Most front desk staff have limited English, but basic procedures can be managed. To avoid issues, our chauffeur or guide can assist with check-in/out at both courses and hotels.

Q3: Do I need a caddie in Japan?

A: Not always. Some courses use self-service carts (manual or automatic), while prestigious clubs may require a caddie.Example: Kawana Fuji Course requires caddies, but Fuji River Golf Club is cart-based without caddies.

Q4: Are there dress code rules?

A: Yes. Japanese golf courses are stricter about attire:

Collared shirts and trousers are required (jeans and T-shirts are discouraged).
Golf shoes must be worn (metal spikes are prohibited).Note: Some courses even require a blazer inside the clubhouse.

Q5: How is lunch arranged?

A: A unique part of Japanese golf culture is a lunch break after 9 holes.Most packages include lunch (curry rice, tonkatsu, ramen, etc.), while some courses or weekends/holidays may require extra payment.

Q6: Do I need to bring my own clubs?

A: Not necessarily. Most courses rent clubs (about JPY 3,000–5,000) and shoes. Serious golfers may still prefer to bring their own equipment.

Q7: How do I get to the courses?

A: Many courses are located far from city centers with no direct transport.The main options are:

Self-driving: requires an international license and familiarity with Japanese roads.
Chauffeured transport: the easiest choice. Our tours provide private chauffeurs who help with luggage, routing, and course check-ins, plus sightseeing along the way.

Q8: How long does a round take?

A: On average, 4.5–5 hours. With lunch included, a 10:00 am tee time usually finishes around 3:00 pm, leaving the afternoon free for sightseeing or hot springs.

Q9: How much does it cost?

A: Prices vary by course:

Public courses: around JPY 8,000–15,000
Prestigious clubs: JPY 20,000–45,000+Most fees include a cart, and some include lunch.

Q10: What about tipping?

A: Japan generally has no tipping culture. Even with caddies, gratuities are not expected since fees are included in the overall price.

Golf in Japan may come with more rules, but the experience is absolutely worth it. From breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji to the unique combination of golf, hot springs, and cuisine, it’s a trip you’ll never forget. If you’re worried about language or booking, our professional tours make it easy to play and fully enjoy golf in Japan.

Learn more about our tours: https://www.mir768.com/en/golf-tours-japan

WhatsApp: https://wa.me/817075867568

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