Are you seeking a summer golfing escape in Japan? Look no further than Furano, where lush, expansive golf courses and cooler temperatures provide the ideal setting for a memorable golfing experience. Located in central Hokkaido, Furano offers a refreshing respite from the heat. With average summer temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius, the weather is perfect for extended outdoor activities, like golf! With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of (what we believe to be) some of the best summertime golf courses in all of Japan—all conveniently located within ~25 minutes from Nozo Hotel.
1. Sorachigawa Lavender-no-mori Golf Course
Just a 10-minute drive from Furano Station, the Sorachigawa Lavender-no-mori Golf Course is home to some of the most beautiful, expansive, and diverse landscapes in all of Furano. Situated in a clearing between rows of sprawling forest-covered mountains, alongside views of blooming lavender and the famous Sorachi-gawa river, it is truly a must-see for golfers of all skill levels. While the course is spacious and generally flat, the varied slopes and strategically placed hazards require thoughtful play. Navigating the ponds and bunkers will test your skills and add a layer of excitement to your game. With 27 holes, affordable rates, well-maintained greens, and the scent of lavender carried by the light summer breeze, you will undoubtedly enjoy your time at Sorachigawa Lavender-no-mori Golf Course.
2. Furano Golf Course
Did you know that Furano is home to a golf course personally designed and tested by the late, great, golfing legend himself, Arnold Palmer? Located a quick 20-minute drive from Nozo Hotel, Furano Golf Course features two 18-hole courses, perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
The Palmer Course is specifically designed for highly strategic and advanced play. This tournament-ready course features numerous lakes and bunkers, demanding both skill and strategy. Revered as one of the most challenging courses in Hokkaido, the Palmer course has international pull and is recognized worldwide for its stunning landscape and beautiful greens.
The King Course, however, is situated on a flatter and wider forest clearing, making it more accessible and enjoyable for golfers at the beginner or intermediate level. Whether you’re a tournament player or playing for the first time, Furano Golf Course has the perfect option for you and your party!
3. Orica Golf Club
Located a short 25 minutes from Nozo Hotel, Orica Golf Club in Nakafurano Town is another great option for travelers looking to play golf in the Furano area. Known for its sprawling greens, this club offers stunning views of the Furano countryside and the majestic Tokachi Mountain Range. The summer landscape, with its vibrant green mountains and clear blue skies, provides a breathtaking backdrop during your game. The 1.38 million m² course features spacious fairways and challenging layouts. Natural forests, lakes, and well-placed bunkers and sloping greens add to the tactical demands, making every round a unique challenge.
Don’t settle for indoor golf simulators while you wait for the temperature to drop! Book a room at Nozo Hotel, make your way up to Furano, and escape the heat this summer! We look forward to hosting you soon.
