Four Itchy Feet

October 3-4, 2025. Minakami, Japan.

If you are remotely interested in golf, then you must not leave Japan without playing a round or two. As we scouted the Minakami area for our return trip in 2026, we came upon the Minakami Kogen Resort 200. This wonderful hotel resort offers a variety of amenities that cater to skiing in the winter and golf in the summer, along with many other family and kid activities in between.

We asked if they had rental clubs and if there was availability for the next two days, and they said yes. The price was a bit above our budget, but the experience was not to be missed: two Arnold Palmer-designed golf courses nestled in the mountains of Minakami, Gunma Prefecture. We immediately booked two nights.

The resort features two unique courses. On Friday, we played the “Forest Course.” Set on the lower part of the mountain and surrounded by dense trees, this course truly demands accuracy on your shots.

On Saturday, we played “Sky.” As the name implies, Sky sits on the upper tier of the mountain, and the panoramic views are incredible. Although it rained for the greater part of the round, we still managed to have an awesome time. The Sky Course, unlike the Forest, demands power; it is a significantly longer track that certainly challenged us.

Playing in the clouds at the Sky course.

Golf in Japan is a different experience. For example, golf carts are built for four players, the pace of play is more relaxed, and you are expected to stop for a mandatory one-hour lunch break at the turn. Conveniently, lunch is included with your green fees, as is access to the public bath or Onsen—a perfect way to relax after a challenging round.

Lunch at The Forest Course.

Lunch at the Sky course.

Although our scores were certainly affected by our lack of practice, rental clubs, the weather, and fast greens—not that we’re making excuses!—we had the most wonderful golfing experience we have ever had. The courses are in pristine condition, and the greens are flawless and fast! If you are coming to Japan and you enjoy golf, please don’t miss out on playing while you are here.

Every green is watched over by an Owl Deity.

The only crowds found on the course.

And Yes, there are Japanese vending machines at the golf course too!