Japan's most respected courses — Hirono, Tokyo GC, Naruo, the Kobe — are member clubs in the strictest sense. They don't list tee times, they don't take credit cards at the gate, and they don't appreciate being asked twice.
Access exists, but it is not bookable in the way a resort course is. The currency is sponsorship and the right kind of introduction. Here is how it actually works, from our side.
Sponsored access
Every visitor at a member club plays under a sponsor — a member willing to put their name to the round. We hold sponsorship arrangements at a handful of clubs in Kanto and Kansai, which means we can request a date but the member always has final say.
What to expect on the day
- Jacket and collared shirt to the clubhouse — no exceptions
- Plan for 4 hours of golf plus 90 minutes of lunch; rushing the lunch is impolite
- Caddies are mandatory at most member clubs; expect to walk
- Tipping is not done — please don't
If a sponsor declines a date, we'll surface the next opening rather than push. The system depends on light pressure on both sides.
