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Tokyo American Club–Men’s and Ladies Golf Group The biggest expat golf group in Japan

So you’ve just arrived in Japan?

You’re one of the lucky ones.

One of the safest countries on Earth. Fast, efficient transit and top-notch customer service. Hundreds of Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo alone and, with the Olympics mere months away, the opportunity to take in a premier international event from your doorstep.

Yes, life in Japan doesn’t force you to make many compromises–unless you’re an ex-pat with a love of golf. Japan boasts one of the world’s most active golfing communities outside of the United States, but even with more than 2,000 courses, breaking in as an ex-pat can be tricky. Courses aren’t equipped to serve English-speaking golfers, and that can mean big headaches when booking tee times. Without a car, getting your clubs from the house to the course either via trains or courier service can cast another pall on an otherwise fine day on the fairways.

Even Japanese golfers, as welcoming and warm as anyone once you break the ice, can tend to stick to themselves at first. Don’t let this scare you off. In fact, it was obstacles like these that pushed ex-pats at Tokyo American Club to form their own golf groups to keep their love of the game alive in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Tokyo American Club

Founded in 1928, Tokyo American Club has helped members of Japan’s international community make the most of their time in this amazing country. The eight-story clubhouse in the shadow of Tokyo Tower boasts top-of-their-class amenities including five restaurants, a fitness center, a rooftop pool and a social calendar chockful of events for individuals and families alike.

When it comes to links-loving members, the “19th Hole” virtual golf simulator, complete with a club pro and custom fittings is the tip of the iceberg. Just ask active Men’s Golf Group and club member Dean Rogers. “It’s a fun group of guys,” Rogers says. “From beginner to scratch golfers, everyone’s welcome. We play the top-tier courses in Japan that normally you can’t get onto, such as Abiko, Hodogaya and Tokyo Golf Club.”

Most months, he explains, the golf groups make it out onto at least two courses. The club’s concierge helps arrange everything from tee times and carts or caddies to transportation to and from courses themselves. Then there are ongoing competitions like the points-based “Race to Roppongi,” the annual club championships and overseas stag trips (past destinations include Thailand and Australia) to keep the friendly rivalries thriving whenever members have time for a round. “There’s also a global alumni network,” Rogers adds. “If you’re looking to play some of the most elite courses in the world, someone in the golf group will be able to help!”

The only thing keeping new arrivals from all golfing in Japan has to offer (and all the Men’s and Ladies Golf Groups can add to it) is joining the Tokyo American Club yourself. Whether you’re in Japan on your own for a short-term assignment or here with your family for the long haul, there are a range of membership options at the Tokyo American Club.

Contact the club

Whether you’re in Japan on your own for a short-term assignment or here with your family for the long haul, there are a range of membership options at the Tokyo American Club.

Find out more at tokyoamericanclub.com or contact the Membership Office directly at:
//membership [at] toc-club [dot] org ">membership [at] toc-club [dot] org to find out which membership type best suits your needs–golfing and otherwise.

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