Your complete guide on where to stay and play golf in Hokkaido this summer.
There’s no need to sweat it out during a Japanese summer. Escape to the cooler climes of Hokkaido, which offers a refreshing alternative to the blistering heat of Tokyo and Kyoto. Here, you can embrace the idea of a ‘coolcation’ — where you can unwind in a luxury condominium hotel, stroll through natural landscapes, and breathe in crisp mountain air.
During summer, Hokkaido also transforms into an outdoor lover’s haven and becomes a paradise for golf enthusiasts in particular. Niseko boasts several golf courses known for their stunning views and easy access from Sapporo. In Rusutsu, you’ll find four courses with 72 holes — the largest in Hokkaido. Furano, on the other hand, offers a 36-hole course designed by Arnold Palmer.
Read also: A COO’s Guide To Golf In Hokkaido
Each area also features excellent accommodation options, so you enjoy multiple rounds of golf without compromising on where you stay. Itching to pack your clubs? Here’s the complete lowdown on playing golf in Hokkaido:
NISEKO
With three premier golf courses set against Niseko’s breathtaking natural backdrop, this alpine escape is a golfer’s dream. Don’t miss the signature holes with sweeping tee shots aimed at majestic Mount Yotei — a reminder that in Niseko, every round is played with a view.
Where can you play golf in Niseko?
Tucked amid Niseko’s pristine landscapes are three golf courses that offer both challenge and charm. Designed by Arnold Palmer, Niseko Golf Course invites self-guided play through tranquil groves of white birch and pine. At Hanazono Golf, you’lll have to navigate dramatic terrain, while Niseko Village Golf Course unfolds across expansive forested fairways and gently rolling plains — perfect for a leisurely round.
| Course Name | Number of Holes | Par | Distance | Course Elevation Difference |
| Niseko Village Golf Course | 18 | 73 | 6,845Y | Flat |
| Hanazono Golf | 18 | 72 | 7,003Y | Moderate ups and downs |
| Niseko Golf Course | 18 | 72 | 6,805Y | Moderate ups and downs |
Where do golfers stay in Niseko?
For golfers seeking the perfect base in Niseko, popular options include Intuition Niseko, The Vale Niseko and Niseko Kyo — all of which offer luxury close to the green. For a more laid-back stay, boutique properties The Freshwater Niseko and Kozue Niseko provide modern amenities and easy access to both the courses and Hirafu village.
Read also: Your Complete Guide To Fruit Picking In Niseko
RUSUTSU
Tee off in Rusutsu, where you’ll find four courses unfold across stunning scenery. Whether you’re chasing a challenging round or want a relaxed game amidst the greenery, Rusutsu offers a rewarding play no matter who low (or high) your handicap is.
Where can you play golf in Rusutsu?
Set against Hokkaido’s iconic birch forests, Rusutsu Resort Golf 72 — expertly overseen by golf legend Jumbo Ozaki — offers an unmatched alpine golf experience. Hokkaido’s largest golfing destination, it has four distinct courses, including a 9-hole night course, where each fairway brings a fresh perspective and every swing is framed by nature at its most captivating.
| Course name | Number of holes | Par | Distance | Course elevation Difference |
| Izumikawa Course | 18 | 72 | 5,943Y | Flat |
| Tower Course | 18 | 72 | 6,672Y | Moderate ups and downs |
| Wood Course | 18 | 72 | 6,817Y | Moderate ups and downs |
| River Course | 18 | 72 | 5,686Y | Moderate ups and downs |
Where do golfers stay in Rusutsu?
For golfers planning a getaway to Rusutsu, The Vale Rusutsu puts you moments from the fairways. With stylish interiors, sweeping mountain views, and direct access to the area’s premier golf courses (and the nearby onsen, too), it’s the ideal retreat after a day on the green.
Read also: 10 Best Summer Activities In Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano
FURANO
Take your clubs and sense of adventure to Furano, where lush fairways stretch beneath Hokkaido’s big skies and the Tokachi mountain range sets a breathtaking backdrop. In between rounds, you can also check out Furano’s mesmerising flower fields or seek out Hokkaido’s best soft serves and gelato — a well-deserved treat.
Where can you play golf in Furano?
The expansive 36-hole Furano golf course, designed by Arnold Palmer, features two distinct experiences. The Palmer Course is long and challenging, while the King Course is relatively short with pleasant ups and downs. Both courses are set in classic Hokkaido landscapes, offering an open and relaxed atmosphere for an enjoyable golfing experience.
| Course Name | Number of holes | Distance | Par | Course Elevation Difference |
| Furano Golf Course | 36 | 13,830Y | 144 | Moderate ups and downs |
Where do golfers stay in Furano?
For golfers planning to play in Furano, the modern condo-hotels Fenix Furano and Fenix West offer just what you need after a day at the green. Going with a larger group? The sleek two-storey Shiyuki Chalet, which has four bedrooms and designed for multigenerational trips, is your best bet.
Read also: Everything You Need To Know About Furano’s Flower Fields
Need help planning your alpine golf getaway? Whether it’s a modern condo-hotel or a luxurious chalet, we have the stay for you. Plus, we can also arrange every element of your golf escape to Hokkaido. Contact us at contact@theluxenomad.com for more information on our Stay & Play packages — your ideal golf getaway awaits.
Looking for more intel on summer in Hokkaido? Read these next:
Summer in Japan: Why You Need A Coolcation In Hokkaido
10 Best Summer Activities In Niseko, Rusutsu and Furano
Hokkaido Milk: The 12 Best Ice Cream and Gelato Worth Travelling For