Everything you need to know to book your round and enjoy an authentic Japanese golf experience
Take this guide with you! Download a PDF version to read offline or print for easy reference at the course.
Start by finding available tee times on the golf course page on Nomae Golf.
On the course page, use the date picker in the "Check Availability" section to select your preferred date.
After selecting a date, you'll see a list of available tee times with detailed plan information including price, number of holes, cart availability, caddie options, and lunch inclusions. Prices vary by day of the week, time of day, and season. Weekdays are typically less expensive than weekends and holidays.
Once you've found a plan that suits your needs, you'll complete your booking on Rakuten Gora.
Rakuten Gora is Japan's leading online golf booking platform, similar to Booking.com for hotels. It allows you to search, compare, and book tee times at golf courses across Japan.
Click the "Book on Rakuten" button next to your selected plan to proceed to the booking page on Rakuten Gora.
Important: You'll see a language warning banner
When you first visit Rakuten Gora, you'll see a banner message about the site being in Japanese. This is normal for international users. Here's what to do:
Don't let the Japanese interface intimidate you—browser translation works well for the booking process!
On Rakuten Gora, you'll complete the following steps:
Helpful Tip: Rakuten Gora is primarily in Japanese, but modern browsers make it easy to navigate:
The translation isn't perfect, but it's good enough to complete your booking. Key information like dates, times, and prices will be clear.
Arrive 30-45 minutes before your tee time. This is essential in Japan and arriving late is seriously frowned upon. Japanese golf courses are very strict about punctuality. Use this time to check in at the front desk, change into your golf attire if needed, warm up at the practice range, and prepare mentally for your round.
Japanese golf courses have strict dress codes. Here's what to wear:
Note: Many courses require you to change into golf attire at the course and won't allow street clothes on the course.
Golf in Japan is more than just a game—it's a cultural experience steeped in tradition, respect, and meticulous attention to detail. Following proper etiquette is essential to showing respect and having an enjoyable experience.
This cannot be stressed enough: punctuality is extremely important in Japanese culture, and even more so at golf courses. Being late can result in your booking being canceled without refund, and it shows disrespect to the course and other players. Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes early.
If you need to cancel your booking, do so as early as possible. Cancellation policies vary by course and booking platform, but generally:
Always check the specific cancellation policy when booking. If you must cancel, contact the course or Rakuten Gora immediately.
Phone: 059-262-5522
Website: Visit Website
If you have questions about your booking or need to make changes, contact the course directly or through Rakuten Gora customer service.
This course accepts the following payment methods:
It's recommended to carry both cash (Japanese Yen) and cards to be prepared for any situation. ATMs are available at convenience stores near most courses.
Japanese golfers often continue playing in light rain, so courses rarely cancel due to weather unless conditions are severe. Come prepared with rain gear and appropriate clothing for the season. Check the weather forecast before your round and plan accordingly.
If you book as a solo player or a small group, you may be paired with other players to fill a foursome. This is common practice in Japan and provides a great opportunity to meet fellow golfers. Be friendly, respectful, and embrace the social aspect of the game.
If you have additional questions or need assistance with your booking, don't hesitate to contact us or reach out to Rakuten Gora customer service. They have English-speaking staff available to help international players.
By following these guidelines and embracing Japanese golf etiquette, you're not just following rules—you're participating respectfully in a cultural tradition that values harmony, respect, and the pursuit of excellence. Your behavior on the course reflects not only on you but also on international visitors as a whole. Enjoy your round and the unique experience of playing golf in Japan!
Etiquette information sourced from Nomae Golf - Japanese Golf Etiquette Guide