Tee Off in Sapporo

Sat, Mar 15 2025

/

News

Bussines

Golf

Lifestyle

Arts & Culture

Technology

Home Décor

Leisure

Dining

Fashion

Beauty

Shopping

Whether you’re a casual golfer or a seasoned pro, Sapporo’s golf courses offer a unique blend of challenging play and breathtaking scenery. With its cool climate, outstanding course designs, and top-notch hospitality.

Jun Takahashi

March 05, 2025

3Min Reads

Golf

Image courtesy of t-marche

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, fresh seafood, and vibrant culture. But for golf enthusiasts, Sapporo is also home to some of Japan’s most scenic and challenging golf courses. With a cool summer climate, pristine greens, and panoramic mountain views, golfing in Sapporo is a must for any avid golfer. Here’s a guide to the best golf experiences in the region.

1. Sapporo Golf Club Wattsu Course

One of the most prestigious golf clubs in Hokkaido, the Sapporo Golf Club Wattsu Course is known for its beautifully maintained fairways and strategic bunkering. This course has hosted several major tournaments and offers a blend of challenge and scenic beauty. The course layout, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, provides an unforgettable golfing experience.

2. Hokkaido Brooks Country Club

If you’re looking for a championship-level course with a touch of American design, Hokkaido Brooks Country Club is an excellent choice. The course, designed with Scottish links-style elements, offers wide fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens that test every golfer’s skill level. The on-site clubhouse also provides top-tier dining options, making it a perfect all-day golfing destination.

3. Sapporo Kitahiroshima Golf Club

A 36-hole facility, Sapporo Kitahiroshima Golf Club is popular among both locals and international visitors. The course is divided into two sections: the East Course, which features a more open and forgiving layout, and the West Course, which requires more strategic shot-making due to its narrow fairways and water hazards.

4. Sapporo Golf Club Hitsujigaoka Course

For those seeking a classic and historic golf experience, the Hitsujigaoka Course offers a well-balanced challenge with its sloping fairways and beautifully manicured greens. This course is especially stunning in the autumn when the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

5. The North Country Golf Club

Located a short drive from Sapporo, The North Country Golf Club is known for its championship-level course and excellent facilities. Designed by legendary golfer Isao Aoki, the course features an open layout with strategically placed water hazards and bunkers. It is also known for its impeccable greens and picturesque surroundings.

Golfing Tips for Sapporo

Best Time to Play: The golf season in Sapporo typically runs from April to November, with summer (June to August) offering the most pleasant weather.
Course Fees: Green fees vary depending on the course and season, but generally range from ¥6,000 to ¥15,000 per round.
Rentals and Facilities: Most major golf courses offer rental clubs, carts, and pro shops where you can purchase premium golf gear.
Cultural Etiquette: Japanese golf culture emphasizes punctuality and proper golf etiquette. Be sure to follow local customs, such as bowing when greeting staff and fellow golfers.

Beyond the Fairways: Explore Sapporo

After a day on the greens, unwind by exploring Sapporo’s rich culinary scene and travel attractions.

Culinary Delights

Fresh Seafood at Nijo Market – A must-visit for seafood lovers, this market offers fresh Hokkaido specialties like uni (sea urchin), crab, and sashimi bowls.
Sapporo Miso Ramen – Warm up with a bowl of Sapporo’s famous miso ramen, best enjoyed at local ramen hotspots like Ramen Alley in Susukino.
Genghis Khan BBQ – A Hokkaido specialty, this lamb BBQ dish is a favorite among locals. Try it at Sapporo Beer Garden for an authentic experience.
Sapporo Beer – Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the city’s brewing history and enjoy a tasting session.
Image japanguide
Travel and Sightseeing
Odori Park – A beautiful city park perfect for a relaxing stroll, especially in spring with cherry blossoms or in winter during the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
Shiroi Koibito Park – A unique attraction where visitors can tour a chocolate factory and try the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies.
Mt. Moiwa Ropeway – Take a scenic ropeway ride to the top of Mt. Moiwa for breathtaking panoramic views of Sapporo, especially stunning at night.
Jozankei Onsen – Just outside Sapporo, this famous hot spring area is ideal for relaxation after a long day on the golf course.
Historic Village of Hokkaido – A fascinating open-air museum showcasing traditional buildings from Hokkaido’s past, perfect for history lovers.