Ibusuki (Kaimon)

Japan remains one of Asia's premier golf destinations, where Golden Age architecture meets meticulous course conditioning across nearly 2,500 layouts. The top three positions hold steady for another cycle, with Charles Hugh Alison's masterpieces at Hirono and Kawana continuing their decade-long dominance. This focused Top 50 represents Japan's upper echelon, where architectural pedigree from designers like Alison, Seiichi Inoue, and Kinya Fujita meets modern championship standards. Explore the entire updated Rankings for Japan Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chubu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kinki Kansai Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kanto Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chugoku Explore the entire updated Rankings for Hokkaido Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kyushu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Tohoku 2026 Rankings: Return to Top 50 After expanding to a Top 80 in 2020, the 2026 rankings refocus on Japan's elite tier with a carefully curated Top 50. This streamlined approach highlights courses that truly warrant international travel, from Alison's revered Golden Age designs to acclaimed modern layouts by Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jnr, and Coore & Crenshaw. Beyond the ranked fifty, dozens of additional layouts offer exceptional golf experiences. The concentration of quality throughout Japan's eight main regions means travellers can build comprehensive itineraries without venturing far from major transport hubs. 2026 Top 50 At A Glance The Unchanged Elite Three courses maintain their positions at the summit. Hirono Golf Club (#1), Kawana Hotel Fuji Course (#2), and Naruo Golf Club (#3) form Japan's untouchable triumvirate, all featuring distinctive Alison architectural DNA. The Dramatic Climbers Osaka Golf Club rises 22 positions to #11 Golden Valley Golf Club surges 15 spots to #12 Katayamazu Hakusan climbs 15 places to #21 Sapporo Wattsu advances 15 positions to #34 Ibusuki Kaimon gains 15 spots to #35 Fukuoka Wajiro jumps 11 places to #28 Caledonian rises 9 positions to #29 Notable Movements Within Top 20 Tokyo Golf Club advances 2 to #4 Ryugasaki climbs 5 to #7 Shimonoseki rises 6 to #9 Abiko slips from #2 to #6 Kasumigaseki East drops 2 to #10 Regional Distribution Kanto: 21 courses (42%) Kinki Kansai: 10 courses (20%) Chubu: 5 courses (10%) Kyushu: 5 courses (10%) Hokkaido: 5 courses (10%) Tohoku: 2 courses (4%) Chugoku: 1 course (2%) Best Golf Courses by Region Kanto Dominance From Golden Age designs at Tokyo Golf Club and Abiko to modern classics like Caledonian and The Royal Golf Club, the region offers an exceptional variety within easy reach of the capital. Kinki Kansai Heritage Osaka-Kobe corridor delivers architectural gravitas through Alison masterworks and their spiritual successors. All three podium finishers call this region home, alongside the rising star Osaka Golf Club. Hokkaido's Resort Appeal The northern island punches above its weight with five courses, led by Hokkaido Classic (#17) and Katsura (#18). Cooler summers and dramatic topography create distinctive playing conditions compared to the main island. Chubu and Kyushu Balance Chubu benefits from Kawana's prestige and Katayamazu's surge, while Kyushu anchors Japan's southern golf culture through Phoenix and multiple climbing entries. Explore the entire updated Rankings for Japan Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chubu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kinki Kansai Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kanto Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chugoku Explore the entire updated Rankings for Hokkaido Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kyushu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Tohoku What the Rankings Tell Us Consistency at the Summit Hirono, Kawana, and Naruo have occupied the top three positions across multiple ranking cycles. This unprecedented stability reflects architectural timelessness rather than ranking inertia. Each course underwent sensitive restoration work that honoured original design intent while meeting modern playing standards. Gil Hanse's work at Tokyo Golf Club demonstrates how thoughtful updates can elevate standing without compromising architectural integrity. Alison's Enduring Legacy Charles Hugh Alison spent just three months in Japan in 1930, yet his influence permeates the rankings. Four of the top five courses bear his architectural fingerprints, either through direct design work or profound influence on protégés like Kinya Fujita and Seiichi Inoue. The distinctive "Alison bunker" - deep, boldly contoured, and strategically menacing - remains the defining feature of Japanese golf architecture. These hazards function as effectively today as when first shaped, proof of Alison's tactical genius and understanding of eternal golf principles. Kanto's Architectural Depth Tokyo's surrounding region claims 21 of 50 ranked courses, showcasing remarkable architectural diversity. Golden Age classics sit alongside acclaimed modern works from international architects. The concentration allows passionate golfers to experience multiple elite courses without extensive travel. A Decade of Evolution: 2015-2020 Top 30 Golf Courses of Japan 2015 Japan's first expanded Top 30 arrived in February 2015, doubling previous Top 15 coverage. The top five remained unchanged, cementing Hirono, Kawana, Naruo, Tokyo, and Abiko as undisputed leaders. The rankings emphasised Alison's lasting impact, noting that any deep, bold bunker throughout Japan remained known simply as "an Alison" nearly 85 years after his brief visit. Top 30 Golf Courses of Japan 2017 The 2017 update maintained the Top 30 structure with minimal disruption at the summit. Hirono through Naruo, held their positions for the fourth consecutive cycle, demonstrating extraordinary consistency across nearly a decade of evaluation. Notable developments included Ono climbing five spots to #5 and Osaka advancing eight positions to #8, both Osamu Ueda designs gaining recognition for strategic merit. Yokohama Country Club West burst onto the scene at #6 following an extensive Coore & Crenshaw renovation that eliminated the traditional two-green system for modern single greens with sub-air cooling. Top 50 Golf Courses of Japan 2018 March 2018 brought Japan's first Top 50 rankings, expanding coverage to showcase deeper architectural quality. Yokohama Country Club West continued its meteoric rise, climbing three positions to #3 following widespread acclaim for the Coore & Crenshaw transformation. Nikko Country Club advanced three spots to #11, showcasing Seiichi Inoue's understated approach through tree-lined fairways and strategic bunkering. The layout features no water hazards yet maintains compelling challenge through terrain movement and hazard placement. Hokkaido Classic and Phoenix Country Club each jumped eight positions, highlighting expanding panel appreciation for courses beyond traditional Kanto-Kansai strongholds. Planning Your Japan Golf Trip Tokyo Hub Strategy Base yourself in Tokyo to access 15 ranked courses within 90 minutes. The capital's excellent train network makes day trips effortless, with courses like Tokyo Golf Club, Abiko, and Kasumigaseki East all reachable by morning tee times. Premium options include Yokohama Country Club West and Ryugasaki for modern course conditioning married to strategic design. Kansai Cultural Circuit Osaka and Kobe offer ten-ranked courses alongside exceptional cultural attractions. Hirono Golf Club represents the ultimate pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts, while Naruo and Ono deliver similarly compelling Golden Age experiences. The region's historical significance and culinary excellence create perfect golf-cultural balance. Northern Exposure Hokkaido's five-ranked courses justify dedicated northern travel, particularly during summer when the main island's heat proves challenging. Hokkaido Classic leads the region at #17, with Katsura, Sapporo Wattsu, Otaru, and Eniwa offering varied architectural approaches across dramatic terrain. Summer temperatures 5-10 degrees cooler than Tokyo make Hokkaido golf refreshingly pleasant during July and August. The island's natural beauty and fresh seafood cuisine enhance the golfing experience. Southern Warmth Kyushu's five courses anchor Japan's southern golf culture, led by Phoenix at #26 and rising star Ibusuki Kaimon at #35. Winter golf proves viable when northern regions face seasonal closure, making Kyushu ideal for December through March travel. The region's volcanic hot springs and subtropical climate create a distinctive atmosphere compared to metropolitan Kanto-Kansai. Fukuoka serves as the natural hub, with courses like Fukuoka Wajiro (#28) and Koga (#15) within comfortable driving distance. Looking Ahead The Japanese golf scene continues evolving through sensitive restoration work and selective new development. Several courses outside the current Top 50 have undertaken renovations aimed at revealing original architectural intent, potentially reshaping future rankings. The complete Top 50 golf courses in Japan offers detailed information about each ranked layout, including course details, review options, and travel logistics for planning your Japanese golf adventure. Explore the entire updated Rankings for Japan Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chubu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kinki Kansai Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kanto Explore the entire updated Rankings for Chugoku Explore the entire updated Rankings for Hokkaido Explore the entire updated Rankings for Kyushu Explore the entire updated Rankings for Tohoku

Golf travel has always occupied a special place in the game’s culture. From the grand tours of Scottish links that captivated early American enthusiasts to the jet-setting pilgrimages of today’s bucket-list players, the desire to experience the world’s finest courses is as old as the game itself. Now, a new kind of golf travel society has arrived – one that promises not merely to arrange tee times at famous clubs, but to unlock access to the game’s most coveted venues and connect discerning golfers through shared experiences on six continents. Lockhart Travel Club describes itself as the world’s most exclusive golf travel club – and the evidence backs that claim up. This invitation-only membership society, developed in association with Top100GolfCourses.com, is built on decades of relationship-building with the world’s finest private clubs, championship venues, and hidden gems that rarely open their gates to outside visitors. The Name Behind the Club: Robert Lockhart’s Legacy The club’s name is no accident. In 1887, a passionate Scottish golfer named Robert Lockhart changed American sports history forever. Tasked by friends at St Andrews to establish golf in the New World, Lockhart carried with him not merely clubs and balls, but centuries of tradition, heritage, and a deep respect for the game’s values. Lockhart understood that golf represented something meaningful: a pursuit that demanded excellence, honoured tradition, and brought together individuals who shared an appreciation for craftsmanship and fair play. These same principles guide Lockhart Travel Club today – a society that sees itself as a custodian of what makes golf special, at home and around the world. By Invitation Only: What Membership Means Lockhart Travel Club membership is not available for purchase off the shelf. It is by invitation only, ensuring the community maintains the highest standards of golf appreciation and personal character. Prospective members must submit an application – including their current handicap, home club, typical travel spend, and five bucket list courses they wish to play – which is then carefully reviewed by the membership committee. The result is a community of accomplished golfers who genuinely share the same passion: to experience the game at its highest level, in the company of like-minded people. Membership benefits include: Preferential access to the world’s most selective clubs and championship venues Fully curated itineraries by golf enthusiasts who have played every Top 100 course worldwide Intimate group sizes of 8–12 golfers, ensuring personal attention and genuine camaraderie Concierge service covering equipment handling, accommodation, dining and 24/7 on-trip support Cultural immersion – from whisky tastings in traditional Scottish clubhouses to traditional welcome ceremonies at Japanese member clubs A growing global network of members from prestigious clubs across six continents Access That Cannot Be Bought The cornerstone of the Lockhart proposition is access – not the commercial kind that anyone with a credit card can secure, but the kind that only comes from genuine, long-standing relationships built on mutual respect. Through partnerships developed over decades, Lockhart opens doors to clubs with highly restrictive guest policies, championship venues during optimal playing conditions, and newly opened courses before they become publicly accessible. Every venue in the Lockhart portfolio is chosen for its architectural significance, the quality of access the club can provide, its cultural context, and impeccable conditioning standards. Members don’t simply play great golf; they immerse themselves in what makes each venue special – its history, the people who shaped it, and the traditions that have endured. 2026 Destinations: Six Continents of Golf Excellence The 2026 Lockhart calendar spans the full breadth of the golf world, with journeys across six regions: Caribbean & Central America – January 14–20, 2026 A winter escape combining championship-level golf with the region’s renowned warmth and hospitality. Clifftop layouts with ocean views and parkland designs through tropical landscapes reveal a side of Caribbean golf that few visitors ever encounter. Preferred access to selective venues, expert local guides, and premium transfers ensure the experience is as seamless as it is memorable. Europe & Scotland – May 17–24 & June 15–26, 2026 Golf’s spiritual homeland is the centrepiece of two European adventures. The Scottish journey traverses championship links where legends have competed for more than a century, complete with private tours of historic venues, behind-the-scenes access to course operations, whisky tastings in traditional clubhouses, and dinners featuring local specialities. The Continental Europe leg explores the Netherlands’ masterful coastal designs and England’s heathland classics – courses that represent centuries of golfing evolution. Asia Pacific – April 13–22 & May 24–30, 2026 Two Asia Pacific departures reveal the continent’s extraordinary range. Vietnam and China host courses ranked among the world’s finest, designed by celebrated architects across diverse terrain. Japan and Korea showcase golf conditioning and design that are legendary worldwide – Japanese courses in particular are celebrated for an attention to detail that approaches artistry. Cultural immersion is built into every itinerary, from ancient temples to traditional welcome ceremonies at member clubs. North America – February, July & September–October 2026 The most extensive regional programme in the 2026 calendar explores America’s extraordinary golf diversity. From the Canadian Rockies’ mountain courses and the Midwest’s Golden Age architectural masterpieces to the Carolinas’ sandhills classics and the Northeast’s historic championship clubs, each sub-region offers a distinct character and golfing identity. South America – March 23–28 & November 16–23, 2026 South America’s emerging golf scene is one of the sport’s best-kept secrets. The Brazilian adventure explores courses that reflect the country’s remarkable geographic diversity – mountain layouts overlooking Rio and coastal venues shaped by Atlantic breezes. Argentina’s journey reveals a golf culture rooted in Scottish and English traditions but distinctly South American in character, with access to World Top 100 private courses. Australia & New Zealand – November 2026 The Antipodes represent golf’s frontier spirit at its purest. Australia’s sandbelt region rivals Scotland’s links for sheer architectural brilliance, while coastal venues offer some of the world’s most dramatic settings. New Zealand’s mountain-framed layouts and coastal links complete a journey that can include helicopter transfers to remote venues, wildlife encounters unique to the region, and wine country experiences between rounds. What Members Say The testimonials from existing Lockhart members speak to experiences that go well beyond the golf itself. Tom Mulflur, owner of Mackenzie Golf Bags, describes how “every Lockhart trip gives you a new set of friends and with them access to more great golf experiences all around the world.” Jason Henderson, CEO of HSBC USA, spoke of a Japan and Korea journey where “whimsical hidden gems and Top 100 masterpieces revealed themselves in harmony,” transforming the trip into what he called “a pilgrimage of golf so pure it felt touched by the timeless spirit of the game itself.” Paulo Malzoni, owner of Santapazienza Golf Club in Brazil, captured the dual appeal succinctly: Lockhart was “the key that unlocked my World Top 100 dream – unforgettable golf, lifelong friends, and experiences I’ll treasure forever.” The Top100GolfCourses.com Partnership Lockhart Travel Club’s close association with Top100GolfCourses.com is a meaningful differentiator. This partnership provides the club with unparalleled course knowledge and industry credibility, combining authoritative golf course evaluation expertise with sophisticated travel experience. Members benefit from early access to newly ranked courses, behind-the-scenes insights from evaluation experts, and direct connections with golf industry leaders and design authorities. Both organisations share a commitment to honest course evaluation, a celebration of brilliant architectural design, and a deep respect for the game’s traditions. As the partnership continues to evolve, it promises expert-led seminars, comprehensive destination research, and exclusive course evaluations that further enrich every Lockhart experience. How to Apply Lockhart Travel Club accepts applications by invitation only. Interested golfers can register their interest via the membership page. Applications receive careful consideration from the membership committee, which looks for golfers who will both contribute to and benefit from the experiences the club offers. For golfers who have long dreamed of moving beyond the commercially accessible and into the world of the truly exclusive – the courses where no amount of money guarantees a starting time, where relationships are the only currency that matters – Lockhart Travel Club may be exactly what they have been looking for.

Places to Eat and Drink Beyond the Greens at Taiheiyo Gotemba Taiheiyo Club Gotemba, located in the scenic area near Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture, is not only famous for its golfing but also for its proximity to some delightful dining and drinking options. Here’s a guide to some places where you can enjoy a meal or a drink after a day on the greens: 1. Kintoki-tei: Just a short drive from the golf course, Kintoki-tei offers traditional Japanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its soba (buckwheat noodles), which are handmade on-site. The serene setting and authentic dishes provide a perfect way to wind down. 2. Sanrokuen: This restaurant specialises in Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) and is ideal for those looking to enjoy Japan's famed wagyu beef. The interactive dining experience of grilling your own meat complements the social atmosphere, making it a great spot for groups. 3. Trattoria La Fiorita: For those craving Italian, Trattoria La Fiorita offers a cosy atmosphere with a menu featuring pasta, pizza, and other Italian favourites. It's a comforting choice if you're looking for familiar Western cuisine with a Japanese twist. 4. Sannoheya Café: A charming cafe near the golf course, perfect for a lighter meal or a relaxing coffee. The café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and sweets, along with stunning views of the surrounding area. 5. Fujisan Brewery: For those interested in local drinks, the Fujisan Brewery is a must-visit. It offers a selection of craft beers made using water from Mount Fuji. The brewery also provides tours and tastings, making it an educational as well as a refreshing stop. 6. Mars Yamanashi Distillery: While slightly farther afield, a visit to the Mars Yamanashi Distillery can be a wonderful excursion for whisky enthusiasts. The distillery is known for its single malts, and visitors can enjoy tours and tastings, learning about the whisky-making process in a picturesque setting. These places offer a delightful mix of local flavours and international cuisine, ensuring that your visit to the Taiheiyo Club Gotemba is memorable not just for the golf but also for the gastronomic experiences. Find out more about travel toTaiheiyo Gotemba Golf Course Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive Worldwide Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel​ (Lockhart Travel Club)​. Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network​. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia​. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year​. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips