Everything you need to know to book your round and enjoy an authentic Japanese golf experience
These are the questions visitors most often ask before their first round in Japan.
Start on a golf course page on Nomae Golf to check available tee times and see the booking options for that round.
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. If you want help with a specific round, the course page is also where you can start assisted booking for that course.
Use assisted booking if you are visiting Japan without a Japanese address and phone number. Rakuten Gora self-booking is available to players who can provide both.
Tell us the exact course, date, and player count you want for a group of 2 or more. We'll submit and coordinate the golf booking request for you.
You can also start assisted booking from a course page when you already know the round you want.
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.
Rakuten Gora self-booking is intended for players who can provide both a Japanese address and Japanese phone number. If you are visiting Japan and do not have these, use Nomae assisted booking instead; we can coordinate the booking with the course.
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.
Important: Some courses accept credit cards while others may be cash-only. Please check with the course about accepted payment methods before your visit.
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.
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
Now that you know how to book and play, discover amazing golf courses across Japan. Browse by region, category, or search for your perfect course. When you find the round you want, you can use assisted booking directly from the course page, or head to the separate Booking Assistance page if you want broader help first.
Get the latest news about new golf courses and exclusive offers.