Top Five Luxury Resort Golf Courses in Okinawa Japan

Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, is renowned for its tropical beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional golfing experiences. For golf enthusiasts seeking luxury and unparalleled natural beauty, Okinawa offers several top-tier resort golf courses that stand out for their unique features and amenities.

1. The Atta Terrace Golf Resort

Located in Onna Village, The Atta Terrace Golf Resort is a gem for golfers. This resort boasts a course designed to the highest specifications, enhanced by varied fairways, beautiful mountains, and the soothing sounds of bird songs. The 16th hole is particularly notable, offering a stunning view of the East China Sea and leveraging the natural hills to create a challenging yet enjoyable play experience. There are no steep inclines on the holes, making it accessible for players of all skill levels.

• Play Fees: Weekdays start at 15,343 JPY (excluding tax), while weekends and holidays begin at 20,343 JPY (excluding tax).
• Rental Equipment: Golf clubs can be rented for 5,000 JPY (excluding tax), and shoes for 1,500 JPY (excluding tax).

2. PGM Golf Resort Okinawa

PGM Golf Resort Okinawa, after a significant renovation, has emerged as a world-class golf destination. The resort features three courses with a total of 27 holes, all renovated under the guidance of professional golfers. Currently, the Hibiscus and Deigo courses are open, with the Bougainvillea course available as well. The clubhouse offers a spacious area for relaxation, providing guests with a high-end resort experience overlooking the ocean and sky.

• Play Fees: Weekdays start at 12,000 JPY (excluding tax), and weekends and holidays at 16,000 JPY (excluding tax).
• Rental Equipment: Golf clubs can be rented for 5,000 JPY (excluding tax), and shoes for 1,000 JPY (excluding tax).

3. The Southern Links Resort

The Southern Links Resort is another standout, offering a unique golfing experience with a view of the cobalt blue Pacific Ocean. The course features two specialty holes where players can hit their balls over the ocean from a 40-meter cliff. The inland side includes seven large and small ponds and a creek, adding to the challenge and beauty of the course. Guest rooms with ocean views provide a perfect setting for relaxation after a round of golf.

• Play Fees: Weekdays start at 16,713 JPY (including tax), and weekends and holidays at 21,033 JPY (including tax).
• Rental Equipment: Golf clubs can be rented for 5,400 JPY (including tax), and shoes for 1,296 JPY (including tax).

4. Kanucha Resort

Kanucha Resort is a comprehensive resort village that includes a golf course, eight buildings with guest rooms, a beach, and pools. The golf course consists of an inner course along the seashore with ocean views and an outer course surrounded by a subtropical forest. This setup allows players to enjoy a professional-level course in a casual atmosphere. The Quick Golf Plan, starting at 3,740 JPY (including tax), is recommended for beginners and children.

• Play Fees: Weekdays start at 15,000 JPY (including tax), and weekends and holidays at 19,400 JPY (including tax).
• Rental Equipment: Combined rental for shoes and clubs is 5,940 JPY (including tax).

5. The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa

The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa, situated within the Kanehide Kise Country Club, offers an 18-hole championship golf course. The course features a woods section surrounded by a deep, mystical forest and an ocean section with commanding views of the sea. This resort is ideal for golf enthusiasts and provides additional amenities such as a luxurious spa, fitness center, and diverse dining options.

• Golf Course: The 18-hole championship course includes both woods and ocean sections, offering varied play experiences.
• Amenities: The resort includes a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining outlets, ensuring a well-rounded luxury experience.

Additional Amenities and Activities

Each of these resorts offers more than just exceptional golfing experiences. Here are some additional amenities and activities that make them stand out:

• The Atta Terrace Golf Resort: Enjoy luxurious golf under bright blue skies with the sound of bird songs, and relax in the resort's amenities.
• PGM Golf Resort Okinawa: The renovated clubhouse provides a spacious area for relaxation, and the resort offers various dining options.
• The Southern Links Resort: Guest rooms with ocean views and a variety of ponds and creeks on the course add to the resort's appeal.
• Kanucha Resort: The resort village includes a beach, pools, and multiple dining options, making it a comprehensive vacation spot.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa: The resort features a luxurious spa, fitness center, and diverse dining options, along with activities such as coral reef restoration and yoga classes.

Seasonal Considerations

Okinawa's warm climate makes it an ideal destination for golf year-round. However, for those sensitive to summer heat or preferring fewer crowds, winter is an excellent time to visit. Temperatures in Okinawa remain above 20°C even in December and January, making it warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer heat.

Accessibility and Location

These resorts are conveniently located and offer easy access to other attractions in Okinawa. For example:

• Kanucha Bay Hotel & Villas: Located about 80 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa: Situated near US Marine Corps camps and within walking distance to the Kanehide Kise Country Club.

These luxury resort golf courses in Okinawa provide a unique blend of natural beauty, challenging golf courses, and luxurious amenities, making them ideal for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a high-end vacation experience.