HYOGO Prefecture is
one of the best Golf Tourism
destinations in Japan!
Hyogo Prefecture, the geographical center of Japan is the only prefecture having different seas both in the north and south, so it has a diversity of climatic conditions and cultural features. As the birthplace of Domestic Golf, with the largest number of golf couses in Japan, the Prefecture offers smooth and uninterrupted passage from various cities by extensive expressway, railway, and airline networks.
Why golf in Hyogo?
The Most Top-class Golf Courses in Japan
Among the more than 160 golf courses in Hyogo, more than 100 are located within a one-hour radius of Kobe, Hanshin or Harima. Of these, approximately 40 are open to all visitors.
Prestigious Courses that boast
a High Standard and History
The first ever Japanese golf course was Kobe Golf Club, established in 1903. In addition to its spot in history as the birthplace of Japanese golf, the conditions of Kita-harima, including the fact that it is situated just outside of Osaka and Kobe, proved to be favorable for golf, leading to the creation of many golf courses that reach a high standard, due in part to the region's abundance of rolling hills and other geographical features. Hirono Golf Club, which is said to be the number one golf course in Japan, is of course located in Hyogo. Also located in Hyogo are Naruo Golf Club, and many other 5 star courses that are open to all visitors.
A Collaborative Effort between
the Government and the People
One of the greatest features of golf tourism in Hyogo prefecture is that the system itself is a joint effort between the public and private sectors. Hyogo prefecture places great importance on golf due to the traits of the region. Those in the local golf industry shared our vision, which led to the creation of our "Friendly Competition Tour." In addition, our efforts extend beyond golf into the realms of experience-oriented tourism and regional revitalization.
Hyogo is a "Microcosm of Japan"
Hyogo is the only prefecture in Japan that faces two different seas, one to the north and one to the south. This contributes to its diverse climate and natural features. In addition, Awaji island, which lies in the inland sea, serves as the southern tip of the prefecture. With the sea, mountains, cities, suburbs and rural areas, players can choose an environment that suits their own personal style and preference. A year-round mild climate allows winter golfing, which means that after a round of golf, visitors can head up the slopes of nearby mountains such as Mt. Rokko and Mineyama Kogen Highland for skiing and snowboarding.
Highly Developed and Convenient Transportation
Kobe is the closest golf destination when travelling from Kansai International Airport, at just about an hour by airport shuttle bus or ferry. In addition, domestic travel is also convenient via the airports, the Shinkansen bullet train, or a network of highways. Popular tourist destinations such as Kyoto and Osaka are also only 50 and 20 minutes away respectively, by local train. For those wanting to visit multiple locations in their golf tourism experience, this is a great advantage.
Where is Hyogo Prefecture?
Regions of Hyogo Prefecture
TAJIMA ・ TAMBA
Blessed with beautiful natural surroundings, various outdoor activities can be enjoyed throughout the year in Tajima.Tajima Cattle, known for being the breeding cattle for many brands such as Kobe Beef, is a prized product of this region. There is an abundance of tourist attractions such as Kinosaki Onsen, a natural hot spring town with a history of 1300 years, and Takeda Castle Ruins, which is also known as "the castle in the sky".
HARIMA
Harima is the home of Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site. Also, craftsmen in Harima produced Japan's first iron golf club by applying the same production technology as that of the samurai's katana sword. Activities which allow guests to try their hand at some of the traditional, local occupations of the area are popular attractions for visitors.
AWAJI
Floating in the Seto Inland Sea, Awaji Island is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, as the warm climate promotes thriving agriculture, dairy and farm industries. The world's largest whirlpool, generated by the tidal range, is an impressive display of the power of nature, and a must-see spot located just off the coast of Awaji island.
KOBE · HANSHIN
Being a port city with a global population, a Chinatown, sake breweries, an array of temples representing cultures from around the world and traditional Japanese hot springs, Kobe is a true melting pot of a city. Between the big cities of Osaka and Kobe, the Hanshin area has been home to both business and culture since ancient times. It has nurtured rich traditions such as Noh theater and flower arranging, and is home to the Takarazuka Revue, arguably the country's most well-known and recognized performance company.
SIGHTSEEING
Himeji Castel
©HYOGO TOURISM BUREAU
Takeda Castle
©Visit Kinosaki
Kinosaki Onsen
Naruto Uzushio Whirlpools
Sasayama Castle Oshoin
©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU
Arima Onsen Town
Nankinmachi China Town
©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU
Kikumasamune
There is also a wide variety of other tourist attractions to choose from.