9 Days Japan Golf Tour: Classic Golf Vacation (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)

Konnichiwa(こんにちは)！Welcome to Tokyo, the capital city of Japan! Upon your arrival at the airport in Tokyo, our driver will meet you at the exit and then escort you to the hotel in Tokyo. The rest of today is free on your own to explore this capital city.

As one of Japan and Asia's largest economic centers, Tokyo is a hub for Japanese culture and art, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural venues, serving as a vital platform for artistic activities and cultural exchanges. Tokyo stands as a significant base for technological advancement, nurturing numerous high-tech companies and innovative talents, holding leading positions globally in areas like electronics, automotive, and robotics technology.

Situated at the southern end of the Kanto Plain, Tokyo is surrounded by diverse natural landscapes including Mount Fuji, providing residents with leisure and outdoor activity spaces. At one point, the population of the Tokyo metropolitan area reached 36 million, accounting for one-third of Japan's total population. Despite the high cost of living, Tokyo provides residents with convenient living conditions, offering a plethora of shopping centers, entertainment facilities, and a rich culinary culture ranging from fine dining to street food.

Arrival Ideas:

1. Japan has two commonly used international airports. Narita International Airport, located 63.5 km from the center of Tokyo, is the primary international air hub for Tokyo, where flights from China to Tokyo usually land. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), is situated 17 km from the center of Tokyo and mainly serves domestic flights within Japan and some international flights, including flights to South Korea and other East Asian regions.

2. Cities that have Direct Flights to Tokyo include, but are not limited to: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Taipei, Kaohsiung, Seoul, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bali, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and more. Please note that flight information is subject to changes based on time and market demand. Contact us to obtain the latest flight information and prices.

First to visit Meiji Jingu Shrine (Meiji Shrine), a Shinto Shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1852-1912) and Empress Shoken (1849-1914), who played a crucial role in modernizing Japan while excelled in writing Waka (traditional Japanese poems of 31 syllables in the pattern 5-7-5-7-7). Meiji Shrine is a popular venue for traditional weddings, where you will have the opportunity to witness a Japanese Wedding Procession, experiencing the charm of Japanese traditional culture.

Founded in 1915 and finished in 1920, Meiji Shrine features a unique architectural style, with the main hall adopting traditional Japanese Shinto Shrine architecture infused with modern elements in its details. You will walk through Japan's Largest Wooden Torii Gate, standing in its natural wooden hue and weighing up to 13 tons. The Torii gate serves as the Symbol of Shinto Shrines, marking the transition from the worldly to the sacred. Walking through this gateway symbolizes stepping into the divine realm, evoking a profound sense of mystery and reverence.

As a peaceful oasis in the city, Meiji Jingu Shrine is the largest green space in the center of Tokyo. In the land-scarce city of Tokyo, the vast area occupied by the Meiji Shrine is truly astonishing! The sacred forest (170,000 trees) surrounding the main shrine buildings of Meiji Jingu is man-made, planted by 110,000 volunteers in honor of their beloved Emperor Meiji (established Shinto as the state religion) and Empress Shoken. The forest serves also to separate the sacred from the profane world.

Take a stroll along the paths and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty. Then, you will notice the impressive Sake Barrel Wall along the South Approach, which features offerings from sake breweries and believers across Japan, including barrels of sake and Western liquor, reflecting Emperor Meiji's fondness for Western culture. At the main hall of Meiji Shrine, you can witness locals washing their hands and rinsing their mouths at Purification Font before worship as a sign of respect. You can offer a 5-yen coin (symbolizing a connection) like locals and pray for blessings. In the eyes of the Japanese, Meiji Shrine is considered to have such boundless capabilities, from naming ceremonies for newborns, to coming-of-age ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, seek marriage partners, pray for world peace, family well-being, safe travels, good health, warding off calamity, etc. In addition to immersing yourself in Japanese Shinto traditions and architecture, revel in the enchanting surroundings filled with lush trees, serene ponds, graceful bridges, and stone pathways that epitomize the essence of traditional Japanese garden art. You should visit here to enjoy the vibrant bloom of cherry blossoms in spring, the verdant beauty of summer, the fiery hues of autumn leaves, and the serene snowy landscapes of winter.

Tips for Visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine:

• Wear modest clothing: Respect the sacred nature of the shrine by dressing appropriately.
• Be mindful of noise levels: Maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere.
• Inner Garden (Optional; self-pay; once Imperial Property), and Meiji Jingu Museum (Optional; self-pay; items used by the imperial couple).

After that, you can explore Tsukiji Fish Market (Now Toyosu Market). Tsukiji Fish Market was once the world's largest fish market, famous for its tuna auctions. However, in 2018, it relocated to a new, larger facility called Toyosu Market. You can still enjoy fresh seafood (sashimi, sushi, or seafood rice bowls), purchase kitchenware, and learn about a variety of seafood, including the characteristics, cooking methods, and nutritional value of different types of seafood.

Then, head to Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple), a must-visit for anyone traveling to Tokyo. Here, you can experience the heart of old Tokyo and its vibrant atmosphere. You can take photos that frame Senso-ji Temple and the Tokyo Skytree;(Japan's Tallest Tower; 634 meters) together.

Senso-ji Temple was built in 628 AD and has a history of over 1300 years, making it one of Japan's oldest temples. It not only witnesses Japan's historical changes but also carries a rich Buddhist culture. The architectural style of Senso-ji Temple blends Japanese traditional culture and art, with rich colors and exquisite carvings. The main buildings include the main gate (Kaminarimon; a landmark of Tokyo), the bell tower, the Five-story Pagoda (a landmark of Tokyo), and the main hall, all reflecting ancient Japanese architectural style and religious beliefs.

Kaminarimon is the iconic structure of Senso-ji Temple, towering at 11.7 meters high and 21.7 meters wide, truly spectacular. Giant Red Lanterns hang in front of the gate, with the words "Kaminarimon" prominently displayed. Kaminarimon is not only a symbol of Senso-ji Temple but also one of Tokyo's most famous landmarks. You may have seen the work of Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the "Three Greats of Ukiyo-e," in his piece "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo: Asakusa Kaminarimon," depicting a snowy scene of the Kaminarimon gate, celebrated for its delicate portrayal and profound imagery, becoming a masterpiece of Ukiyo-e art. The area is bustling, and crowded with people coming to pray and seek blessings for health, peace, and happiness. Around Senso-ji Temple, you can taste various Japanese cuisines, purchase unique souvenirs, and participate in various celebratory activities.

End your day with a visit to the Tokyo Skytree, standing at 634 meters (2,080 feet), making it the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world. From its observation decks, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. The Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck, at 350 meters above ground, features massive 5-meter-high glass windows offering 360-degree views, allowing visitors to see from the base of SKYTREE up to 70 kilometers away in the distance. For an even more spectacular experience, take the glass-enclosed tube from floor 445 to 450 to reach the Tokyo Skytree Tembo Galleria. This highest observation point creates such an immersive experience that you'll feel as if you're walking through the sky itself.

Evening Free Time Ideas:

Shibuya: Shibuya embodies Tokyo's youthful energy and vibrant nightlife, making it perfect for evening exploration. Experience the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections on the planet. It's particularly mesmerizing at night when neon lights and billboards bathe the area in a colorful glow.

Ginza's High-End Shopping: Wander through the elegant streets of Ginza, where luxury boutiques and flagship stores - Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci - line the boulevards. Even without shopping, the artfully crafted window displays offer a visual feast.

After breakfast, you will enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Tokyo to Fujikawaguchiko Country Club, located near the shores of Lake Kawaguchi - one of the famous Fuji Five Lakes. Situated at an altitude of about 1,000 meters, the club offers cool, pleasant weather in summer and is an ideal destination for both golf and sightseeing.

Many holes provide direct, panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. On clear days, the snow-capped peak creates a stunning backdrop, making this one of Japan’s celebrated “Fuji view” golf courses. The natural surroundings combine water, forest, and grasslands, with each season offering unique, photogenic scenery: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snowy Mt. Fuji in winter.

Fujikawaguchiko Country Club is a 27-hole course designed by renowned architects Robert von Hagge and Bruce Devlin. The East and South nines are especially acclaimed, forming an exceptional 18-hole experience known for its strategic layout and challenges. Precision iron shots and careful course management are required, as there are 195 well-placed bunkers - among the most at any course in Japan.

The course is expertly routed over gentle, forested terrain, making full use of the natural landscape. The trees and greenery create a tranquil atmosphere while presenting strategic challenges for golfers. After your round, you can relax in the clubhouse, which is inspired by a mountain villa and offers a welcoming retreat.

After the golf experience, be escorted back to your hotel in Tokyo downtown area.

Today, you will take the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) to Kyoto from Tokyo Station. A driver will wait for you at the hotel entrance at the scheduled time and transport you to Tokyo Station.

Shinkansen Ride: At Tokyo Station, board the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) bound for Kyoto Station (about 2.5 hours). This fast and comfortable journey offers a chance to enjoy the changing landscapes of urban and rural Japan. Tokyo Station, a prominent feature on the ¥10,000 Japanese banknote, is more than just a transportation hub, it is a historical landmark and a vibrant destination in its own right. As the main gateway to the city, Tokyo Station has played a crucial role in Japan's modernization and economic development. Its impressive red-brick facade and intricate details are a testament to Japanese architectural prowess. The station has become a symbol of Tokyo and a popular tourist attraction.

Upon arrival in Kyoto, your driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Check in, take some time to settle in, and rest.

Kyoto, located in the Kansai region of the country, was once the capital of Japan. It epitomizes ancient Japan and is famous for tranquil temples, exquisite gardens, colorful shrines, grand imperial palaces, and ornate castles. Boasting 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, over 1,000 Buddhist temples, and more than 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is among the world's most culturally rich cities. It's also known for traditional Japanese arts and practices, such as tea ceremonies, kaiseki dining (a traditional multi-course meal), and ikebana (flower arranging). It remains one of the best places to see geishas, who are traditional Japanese female entertainers known for their refined skills in arts, music, dance, and conversation.

Free Time Ideas in Kyoto:

• Visiting Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". It is an excellent way to spend your free time, especially if you have an interest in Japanese food culture and local delicacies.
• Evening Stroll Along the Kamo River:This river flows through the city and provides walking paths with beautiful views. Many cafes and restaurants along the river have terraces, perfect for a relaxing end to your day.
• Walk the Philosopher's Path: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path, a stone path lined with cherry trees that follows a canal in northeastern Kyoto. This path is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season but offers a serene experience year-round.

After breakfast, you and your partners will be transferred to Kyoto Golf Club to play the Kamigamo Course. This is Kyoto’s only high-quality golf course located within the city, offering super convenient access - just within 30 minutes’ drive from downtown Kyoto.

Established in 1948, Kyoto Golf Club’s Kamigamo Course is an 18-hole, par-69 layout measuring 5,818 yards. The course is beautifully landscaped with old pine trees and a variety of other trees, creating a garden-like atmosphere that lets you fully experience Kyoto’s changing seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms line the fairways; in autumn, vibrant foliage colors the landscape. Each round here is unique, thanks to the distinct beauty of every season.

Features of Kyoto Golf Club & Your Unique Golf Experience:

The course features gentle undulations and shorter holes, but still requires a strategic approach. Playing in this tranquil setting allows golfers to appreciate both the essence of golf and Kyoto’s unique charm, enjoying the natural scenery and the atmosphere of the ancient city.

A highlight of the course is the 4th hole, which features a famous floating island tee surrounded by bunkers and a steep, two-tiered green that challenges every golfer. Overall, the course has a modest elevation change of 15 meters, with the 5th hole marking the highest point at 10 meters. While the course is not long, its elevated greens, lakes, and well-placed hazards make accurate approach shots especially important.

After the golf experience, be escorted back to your hotel in Kyoto. Have your own time to explore in Kyoto.

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, epitomizes ancient Japan. Boasting 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1,000 Buddhist temples, and more than 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is among the world's most culturally rich cities. Known for traditional arts like tea ceremonies, kaiseki dining, and ikebana (flower arranging), Kyoto is also one of the best places to observe geishas.

After breakfast, you and your partners will explore Kyoto for a full day. Start the morning in Kyoto bright and early at one of its most iconic sites - the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, to beat the crowds.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, known as Senbon Torii (“thousands of torii gates”). Layers upon layers of vermilion torii gates line the lush, wooded hillside, forming a seemingly endless corridor. The vibrant orange and black gates contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery, creating a visually stunning and almost otherworldly path that is highly photogenic.

Fushimi Inari Taisha was founded in the early 8th century (711 AD) and is primarily dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, sake, agriculture, and industry. As you explore the shrine, you will encounter hundreds of fox statues. Said to be the messengers of the god Inari, who is associated with cereal grains, these fox statues often symbolize the deity. Many of these fox statues are depicted holding a key in their mouths, which is said to open the granary.

Tips: Hiking to the summit of the mountain and back will take two to three hours, but many people go only as far as the Yotsutsuji intersection because there are fewer torii gates beyond this point. It will take 30 to 40 minutes to reach Yotsutsuji.

Next, visit Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perched on the hillside of Eastern Kyoto, this temple is renowned for its wooden stage that juts out over the hill, providing stunning views of the city and the surrounding nature. The temple's main hall, constructed entirely without the use of nails, is an architectural marvel. Kiyomizu-dera is also celebrated for its sacred waters, which are believed to have wish-granting powers that draw countless visitors who come to drink from its stream. Don’t miss the Hondo (Main Hall), Jishu Shrine, the Otowa Waterfall, and the spiritual experience of the Tainai-Meguri room.

Tips: The scenery at Kiyomizu-dera Temple is distinctively beautiful in each season, offering a unique charm year-round. In spring, the mountains are adorned with charming cherry blossoms; in summer, they are lush with vibrant greenery; in autumn, they are decorated with brilliantly colored leaves; and in winter, they are filled with enchanting trees.

Then, walk up the well-preserved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. These charming, sloping streets are lined with traditional shops and quaint tea houses, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Kyoto's past. As you stroll through these areas, you can shop for unique crafts, sample local snacks, and perhaps stop at a café to relax and soak in the atmosphere of old Kyoto.

Continue to Yasaka Shrine, the guardian shrine of the Gion entertainment district, which dates back over 1350 years. Yasaka Shrine is particularly favored by those seeking beauty and wealth. Visiting this significant Shinto shrine in Kyoto, you may also find yourself gaining some good luck. The shrine is most famous for its Gion Matsuri in July, during which you can witness the procession where the deities of Yasaka are paraded through the city streets.

Adjacent to the shrine, Gion is Kyoto's famous geisha district. Here, you might catch a glimpse of Geisha (Geiko) in their elaborate kimonos and traditional makeup. As you wander through the cobblestone streets of Gion, take a moment to appreciate the beautifully preserved machiya (wooden townhouses), ochaya (teahouses), and exclusive ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants). Gion is particularly enchanting at dusk when the lanterns are lit and geishas and maiko (apprentice geishas) make their way to evening appointments, making the narrow lanes come alive.

After the tour, your group will be escorted back to your hotel.

After breakfast, you and your partners will transfer from Kyoto to Osaka. Today, you’ll play 18 holes at the East Course of Ibaraki Country Club, located near the city of Ibaraki, about halfway between central Osaka and Kyoto.

Ibaraki Country Club is one of Japan’s most historic and respected golf courses. It has hosted major tournaments, including the Japan Open and Japan Women’s Open, and is regarded as a “dream stage” for top golfers.

The club features two courses: the East and the West. The East Course was originally designed by David Hood of Scotland in 1923 and renovated by C.H. Alison of England in 1930. The West Course was designed by Seiichi Inoue in 1960 to accommodate advancements in golf technology.

Upon arrival, you’ll play 18 holes on the East Course. With its modern layout, wider fairways, and flexible hazard placement, the East Course offers a balanced challenge suitable for all skill levels. The open views and contemporary design create a bright, welcoming atmosphere.

The East Course is considered the club’s true gem, set on gently undulating terrain rich with plant and wildlife, especially vibrant in spring. Each hole is memorable, with standouts like the 5th Hole and 6th Hole, which are surrounded by blooming cherry trees in season - much like the picturesque clubhouse. Recent extensions have increased the course length to 6,400 meters from the back tees.

Enjoy your round among mature trees and experience the beauty of seasonal changes - cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn add to the experience.

After golf, you will transfer to Osaka for your accommodation.

Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city and a major economic hub, is famous for its rich history, diverse cuisine, vibrant culture, and strong economy. The city’s unique sense of humor and open, welcoming personality make it especially lively and colorful. Streets lined with concrete are illuminated by dazzling neon lights and bright storefronts. Known as the “nation’s kitchen,” Osaka is a paradise for food lovers, offering an incredible variety of culinary delights.

Free Time Suggestion in This Afternoon:

This afternoon, if you have some free time, consider visiting Osaka Castle Park - one of Japan’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city’s historical grandeur. As you explore the scenic grounds, you’ll be impressed by the massive moats, gates, and stone walls built with remarkable precision. The largest stone slab measures 11 meters wide, and many stones are carved with the crests of the 64 daimyō (feudal lords) who helped construct the castle in 1620.

The highlight is the Main Tower (Tenshukaku), which rises majestically at the heart of the park. Inside the tower is a museum that showcases artifacts related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the history of the castle. The 8th-floor observation deck offers panoramic views of Osaka Castle Park and the Osaka Plain.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive from Osaka to Osaka Golf Club, located in Misaki Town, Sennan District. This iconic seaside club, about 1 hour from central Osaka, sits right on the coastline of the Seto Inland Sea. Founded in 1937, Osaka Golf Club is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious seaside links courses, and a true gem of the Kansai region.

The 18-hole, 6,402-yard course makes full use of the complex coastal terrain, offering golfers a variety of unique challenges. Each hole is distinct, encouraging players to test both their technical skills and strategic thinking. The ever-present coastal winds add another layer of difficulty, demanding accurate and well-controlled shots.

What Makes Golf at Osaka Golf Club Unique?

One of the club’s biggest attractions is its breathtaking panoramic view of Osaka Bay. The 3rd and 7th holes are especially memorable, as they play directly toward the sea. The signature 396-yard 7th hole requires a tee shot across a small pond to a fairway that curves sharply left to a triangular green, which, like the greens at holes 1, 3, and 4, sits close to the water’s edge.

On the back nine, the very short 14th hole runs along the boundary of the property, next to a road that separates the course from the sea. This hole starts a distinctive sequence of five closing holes with par values of 3-5-3-5-3—a rare configuration that perfectly matches the natural contours of the land.

The 18th hole, framed by impressive Alison-style bunkers, is both visually stunning and strategically demanding, making it a fitting end to your round and a highlight for any golfer.

After your round of golf, you’ll be transferred back to Osaka. If you’d like to continue exploring, Asia Odyssey Travel recommends visiting some of Osaka’s top highlights.

Free Time Ideas in Osaka:

Start with shopping at Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, the city’s busiest and most popular shopping arcade. Next, head to the lively Dotonbori district, famous for its bright neon signs and vibrant waterways. During the holiday season, the area is especially dazzling with festive decorations strung across the bridges.

Dotonbori is Osaka’s entertainment hotspot, filled with fantastic restaurants, clubs, and karaoke bars. Be sure to snap a photo with the iconic Glico Man sign, a symbol of the city. While you’re there, try some of Osaka’s must-eat street foods, such as takoyaki (octopus balls), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers of meat and vegetables), and okonomiyaki (a savory Japanese pancake with your choice of toppings).

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Osaka as your 9-day Japan Golf Tour comes to an end. Today, you will make your own way to the airport for your departure, depending on your flight schedule. Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka is available for your outbound flight.

Golf Trip Extension:

If you’d like to continue your golf experience in other destinations in Japan - such as Kobe, Hokkaido, or Okinawa - just let us know. We can customize your golf tour to suit your interests.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Japan tour. We are committed to enhancing your travel experience and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe journey home!