Hokkaido enjoys the lowest population density of Japan's main islands, and where there are less people, there is more room to build golf courses.
Asahikawa is one of Hokkaido's best golfing alternatives offering stunning mountain scenery, beautifully designed and maintained courses and all of the value added services you would expect from any fine country club.
The Asahikawa summer is short but tends to be dry, so the stifling humidity commonplace in the southern parts of Japan is not a factor in a round of golf here. Fresh mountain air is the order of the day at most courses, and even on the hottest summer days a round of golf can be played without discomfort.
During Autumn, although the temperature drops substantially, golfers are able to play surrounded by the stunning mountain colors that are so popular with visitors to Hokkaido.
The price of a round of golf depends on several factors, but with Japan's recent economic woes is more affordable than ever. Weekend and national holiday prices are somewhat higher than weekday prices and are lower again if you're prepared to carry your own clubs, though this option is not available at many courses.
You can expect to pay anywhere from ¥4,000~20,000 for a full round of 18, depending on the quality of the club as well as the time of the week and even the time of day.
Most clubs provide outstanding personal service and facilities including bag check-in, club hire, pro-shop, locker rooms, hot springs, restaurants and function rooms to make your round or golf holiday as enjoyable as possible.
To Caddy or not To Caddy
Deciding whether or not to use a caddy is principally a matter of cost, necessity,and communication.
First of all, depending on the club, the price of a round of golf can be considerably cheaper if you carry your own clubs.
Secondly, as the vast majority of caddies won't speak any English, the value in having one is questionable.
That having being said, a few simple hand gestures and simple phrases will usually get your point across, and it's always nice to have at least some knowledge of the course layout when playing. If you have never played golf in Japan before, consider a caddy.
T.N.T Golf Tours
Unless you're coming to Hokkaido or Asahikawa specifically on a golf trip, it's less than likely that you'll be packing your golf clubs. This doesn't necessarily mean that your Hokkaido golf dream has to be over.
Take a golf tour with Taisetsu Nature Tours (TNT - Golf).
We'll arrange a round of golf for you and your party at one of the perfectly maintained, picture-perfect courses around the Taisetsuzan National Park. We'll arrange equipment, transport and return, clubhouse check-in, a round of 18, and a spot of lunch, all from ¥16,950 per person for a single day trip.
More advanced golf packages can be arranged to include hot spring resort (onsen), accommodation, multiple courses and/or multiple outdoor activities to allow you to get to know magnificent regions like Biei, Furano, Tomamu, and Shirogane.
There are more than 10 golf courses around Asahikawa, all of which can be accessed from the city center in less than 30 mins.
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Prices and course information are subject to change. Please click each course for updated details.
The Golf season here is very short, from mid April to the beginning of November. To get the best value for money, go to any of the courses during the weekdays when course fees are much lower and you can play a leisurely round filled with spectacular scenery, without getting hassled by other groups. Weekend play is about 2~3 times more expensive and with groups teeing-off every 5 mins feels a little like being on a sushi conveyor.
Asahikawa Kokusai CC in Aibetsu is probably the best course in town in terms of design, scenery, and service. If instead you are looking for an up close and personal view of the Taisetsu Mountain Range, we recommend Shirogane Golf Club.
The 30 minute drive is totally worth what you get here.This is the most popular golf course in/around Asahikawa which provide great service and combination of beautiful and balanced course.
Shirogane Golf Club
Surrounded by nature, Shirogane Golf Club is located at the foot of the biggest mountain range in Hokkaido, the Taisetsuzan.
R/C Auto-piloted golf carts help you to navigate the course, all with the push of a button.