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Editor's Pick

Spa & Golf Resort Kuji Iwatecho, Ibaraki Prefecture

Less than two hours from central Tokyo, Spa & Golf Resort Kuji is nestled in the beautiful Hitachiota region of Ibaraki Prefecture. Renowned for its unique course layout and contrasting nines, I set out from Tokyo eagerly. Having seen pictures of the resort’s accommodations and expansive open spaces on the website, I mostly looked forward to getting away from the city for a few days.

As we arrived in the afternoon on a Friday, the summer sun had dipped behind the trees, casting a magical glow over the surroundings. Immediatley you notice the cool Western-style villas lining the fairways on the right and a large covered driving range to the left, as you enter the clubhouse car park you will see its adjacent the on-site hotel.

Pulling up to the entrance, the staff...

Travel

JNTO Launches New Inbound Golf Site

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has launched a fantastic new comprehensive golf guide for tourists. This site is the official guide of the Japanese government and is a tremendous guide for golfers coming to Japan.

You can discover some great courses, routes, and activity planners and it ties in with all the other amazing experiences in Japan- which are also part of the larger site.

Please check it out here: https://www.japan.travel/en/sports/golf/

AIR Golf Media was a proud collaborator in helping to create some of the golf guides and course listings, check out the 'Golfing Japan's Golfing Golden Route' here:

https://www.japan.travel/en/sports/golf/golfing-japans-golden-route/

What's it like to golf in Japan? FAQs when it comes to Asia's best kept golfing secret

Golf in Japan is as unique as the country itself. Across the more than 6,852 islands - including the four main islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu - there are no less than 2,349 golf courses, varying from revered top-100 courses to riverside pitch and putts. The below information is aimed at newcomers to Japan and attempts to cover the basic questions on teeing it up in Asia's best-kept golfing secret!

Image: © shibuya246.com

Courses

Spa & Golf Resort Kuji Iwatecho, Ibaraki Prefecture

Less than two hours from central Tokyo, Spa & Golf Resort Kuji is nestled in the beautiful Hitachiota region of Ibaraki Prefecture. Renowned for its unique course layout and contrasting nines, I set out from Tokyo eagerly. Having seen pictures of the resort’s accommodations and expansive open spaces on the website, I mostly looked forward to getting away from the city for a few days.

As we arrived in the afternoon on a Friday, the summer sun had dipped behind the trees, casting a magical glow over the surroundings. Immediatley you notice the cool Western-style villas lining the fairways on the right and a large covered driving range to the left, as you enter the clubhouse car park you will see its adjacent the on-site hotel.

Pulling up to the entrance, the staff...

Beat The Heat with Stay and Play Golf Packages at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono

Niseko, Hokkaido – This summer and fall, Park Hyatt Niseko invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hokkaido with our specially curated Stay & Play Golf Package. Enjoy a cooler round of golf while taking in the dramatic backdrop of Mt. Yotei and the Annupuri mountain range. Afterward, unwind in the tranquil indoor pool and rejuvenate in the saunas and onsen hot springs, making relaxation the heart of your stay.

News

Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler and Presidents Cup stars commit to ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP 2024

Chiba, Japan: Tournament officials announced today that Japan native Hideki Matsuyama, 2017 FedExCup champion Justin Thomas, six-time PGA TOUR winners Rickie Fowler and Max Homa, and Presidents Cup stars Sahith Theegala, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Si Woo Kim and Sungjae Im have committed to play in the ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP at ACCORDIA GOLF Narashino Country Club, October 24-27, 2024.

They will join defending champion Collin Morikawa, two-time major winner Xander Schauffele, and rising stars Min Woo Lee and Will Zalatoris, in headlining Japan’s premier PGA TOUR tournament which is offering a total prize fund of US$8.5 million.

Ticket sales are available via https://zozochampionship.com/en/ .

“After a stellar 2024 season with two PGA TOUR...

Matsuyama on the cusp of FedEx St. Jude Championship glory

Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama put himself on the brink of FedExCup Playoffs history after a second successive 6-under 64 in the third round powered him into a five-shot lead at the FedEx St. Jude Championship on Saturday.

No Asian golfer has claimed a post-season victory since the Playoffs was incepted in 2007 and the 32-year-old gave himself the golden opportunity following another impressive showing at TPC Southwind in Memphis, highlighted by an eagle and five birdies.

Matsuyama, a nine-time PGA TOUR winner and bronze medalist at the recent Paris Olympics, stands at 17-under 193, with TOUR rookie Nick Dunlap in solo second after a 66 for 198. Reigning FedExCup champion, Viktor Hovland surged into third place with a 66 while FedExCup leader and Olympic gold medalist,...

Equipment

Titleist Introduces Pro V1, Pro V1x and Pro V1x Left Dash with Enhanced Alignment

Titleist introduces Pro V1, Pro V1x and Pro V1x Left Dash golf balls with Enhanced Alignment , offering a performance-oriented alignment design straight out of the sleeve.

The new Enhanced Alignment aid is an extended alignment side stamp designed for more precise aim and accuracy. The elongated sidestamp provides a built-in visual aid measuring over 65 percent longer than the standard Pro V1 sidestamp.

“Enhanced Alignment is designed for golfers who are seeking a more detailed, built-in alignment feature on their Pro V1, Pro V1x or Pro V1x Left Dash,” said Jeremy Stone , Vice President, Titleist Golf Ball Marketing. “We saw overwhelming interest in the single-colored line on Pro V1 Performance...

Vokey SM10 Wedges Craftsmanship Meets Performance

Vokey Design wedges consistently boast an overwhelming usage rate of over 50% on the PGA Tour and remain the top choice on the Japan domestic men's tour. Their reliability stems from their exceptional "scoring performance," and a result of refined craftsmanship. Bob Vokey regards wedges as the "scoring clubs," and in collaboration with top players, has crafted unique wedge variations (in terms of lofts and grinds) that set Vokey apart. “Even if you miss the green or your ball lands in a difficult lie near a hazard, with a trusty wedge in hand and the ability to get it close to the cup, you can still save your score”.

Whenever Bob Vokey develops a new wedge, he focuses on three main goals:

  • Options to suit all lie conditions and playing styles
  • Control to...
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    Instruction

    Threading Shots Through Gaps In The Trees Stroke Savers

    I have played golf for more than 40 years. Most days on the course I find myself shaking my head at the dreadful decisions people make, especially after hitting their tee shot into the trees. The sound of the ball pinging around amongst Japanese cedars happens far to often and even has begun to creep into my dreams. You cannot imagine my frustration as I watch hard-working students not improve their scores because they try to weave their ball through a gap in the trees that even Phil Mickelson wouldn't attempt. Inevitably they end up with scorecard wrecking 9 and I realise their recent lobotomy was a complete success.

    Golf courses in Japan are mostly parkland-style courses whose fairways are heavily tree-lined. It is quite a rare occurrence to play links golf here. Even the...

    How to prepare mentally for Matchplay 4 keys to remember

    Golf is a sport that requires both physical and mental preparation in order to perform at your best. While many golfers focus on the physical aspects of the game, such as swing mechanics and course management, it is equally important to focus on the mental aspects of matchplay. Get yourself ready for that monthly medal and learn how to mentally prepare for matchplay in order to give yourself the best chance of success.

    First and foremost, it is important to understand that matchplay is different from strokeplay. In stroke play, the goal is to shoot the lowest score possible over the course of a round. In matchplay, the goal is to beat your opponent. This shift in mindset can be difficult for some golfers to adjust to, but it is essential to understand that matchplay is a...

    Lifestyle

    10 THINGS YOU (PROBABLY) DID NOT KNOW ABOUT JACK NICKLAUS

    The name Jack Nicklaus needs a very little introduction in the world of golf. He holds the most major victories in history with 18 titles and has won 73 times on the PGA TOUR. The 84-year-old is also known as the Golden Bear and has carved his legacy by building and designing numerous golf courses around the world.

    He also supports philanthropic and charitable efforts in the U.S., including Play Yellow which encourages fans to wear yellow on Sunday to celebrate his longtime connection with the colour and a Children's Miracle Network Hospitals campaign with the goal to raise funds to help the 10 million kids treated at local children's hospitals each year.

    While his name is synonymous with the game, below are 10 things that you probably didn't know about Nicklaus as he...

    Italian Fine Jewelry Brand "FOPE" Opens First Flagship Store in Tokyo's Ginza Distric

    Italian fine jewelry brand "FOPE" has opened its first flagship store in Japan, "FOPE GINZA," marking a significant milestone for the brand. Nestled amidst the opulence of Ginza, where luxury brands reign supreme, FOPE GINZA will captivate discerning shoppers with its understated elegance, becoming the brand's third flagship store in the world, following locations in Piazza San Marco in Venice and Old Bond Street in London.

    Amidst the towering buildings that define the vibrant cityscape of Ginza, FOPE GINZA stands out with its new elegant two-story white building, housing FOPE's finest creations and representing its inaugural flagship presence in Japan.

    More on Air

    What happens if your ball strikes another players ball? Golfing Rules, Seriously!

    On the course this past weekend, I putt from just off the green and my ball struck my playing partners ball, knocking it closer to the hole.

    After a quick giggle, we began to discuss the ruling, 'I'll play from there and its a one-shot penalty for you' my friend said. 'I was off the green' I said, 'Doesn't matter' he said. Right, I said. 'Hang on, and I'll consult the rule book'.

    Luckily, I had The R&A's Rules of Golf on my phone (Well worth a download and it's FREE)

    Without quoting the book verbatim, there are basically three scenarios which you should be mindful of:

    On the Fairway (updated June 14th, 2023) If your ball strikes a fellow player's ball on the fairway by accident, The 9.6 rule comes into affect, meaning If my ball...

    An Insider’s Guide to Toranomon Hills Residential Tower These serene serviced apartments offer a blend of luxury living and home comforts in the heart of Tokyo

    A well-located residential property that rivals a five-star hotel, is furnished to an impeccably high standard, and comes with friendly, hospitable staff? That doesn’t sound like a bad way to begin your new life in Japan, does it?

    Whether you’re coming to the city on a short to medium-term assignment or wanting to get your bearings before settling longer-term, serviced apartments are a first-class option for temporary accommodation in Tokyo – especially if you are looking to make the most of your experience here.

    Right now, the best-in-class serviced apartment in the capital has got to be the newly opened Toranomon Hills Residential Tower, part of the Toranamon Hills development project. I recently had a chance to visit the development and learn more about its urban...