Japanese Golf Culture, Dress Code & On-Course Logistics

Japanese golf is a full-day experience that runs from check-in through the round, a mid-round meal (where applicable), and checkout. Many clubs originally built as private courses in the late 1980s and early 1990s now welcome visitors. Expect clear procedures at the clubhouse, caddies at most courses, a defined dress code, and often an onsen or bath after play. We coordinate transfers around this pace.

Booking & Tee Times

  • Tee times are typically confirmed 2 to 3 months in advance.

  • Alternate courses may be selected based on availability, tournaments, or maintenance.

Dress Code

  • Most clubs require a sport jacket when entering and leaving the clubhouse.

  • Men: collared shirts and slacks or tailored golf trousers.

  • Women: golf-specific attire.

  • Change into golf shoes in the locker room; street shoes are worn until then.

  • Ankle-covering socks are expected; conservative colors are preferred.

  • Visible tattoos are generally not accepted.

  • Confirm specific requirements with us before travel so last-minute purchases can be avoided.

Registration & Locker Key

On arrival at the clubhouse you will check in at the reception counter. You will be given a locker key and a small wallet or tag with a number. That number is used as a charge card for any purchases during the day (food, drinks, range balls, merchandise, etc.). You settle the account when you return the wallet and key before leaving the club.

Caddies

  • Green fees generally include caddie service.

  • One caddie typically assists two to four players.

  • Caddies are often mandatory for visitors.

  • Most caddies are female; a male caddie can sometimes be requested.

  • Caddies focus on pace of play, ball location, basic club selection, and equipment care. Detailed green-reading is less common than in the US or Europe.

  • Tipping is not customary. An optional tip of ¥1,000–2,000 per golfer may be given for exceptional service.

Carts & Walking

  • Riding carts typically hold four golfers and one caddie.

  • Walking carts hold bags for four golfers.

  • Some courses, especially those that host major tournaments, encourage or require walking.

Lunch Break

At most courses in Honshu and further south, a 40–60 minute sit-down lunch break between the nines is standard, and some courses start on the back nine. Because of this tradition, afternoon tee times are uncommon.

In Hokkaido, many courses play through without a mid-round meal break.

After the Round

Many clubs offer a public bath or onsen after play. This is a valued part of the Japanese golf experience. Bring a change of clothes and tell your driver in advance if you plan to use the bath so pickup time can be adjusted.