Hourai Country Club: A Hidden Championship Gem in the Nasu Highlands

Nestled in the rolling hills of the Nasu highlands in Tochigi Prefecture, Hourai Country Club is one of Japan's best-kept secrets in championship golf. Designed by the legendary Robert Von Hagge, this 18-hole course has hosted the Japan Golf Tour Championship three times — yet remains relatively unknown to international golfers.

A Course That Rewards Strategy

What makes Hourai special isn't just its beauty — it's the way Von Hagge integrated the natural landscape into every hole. Red pine forests line the fairways, creating corridors that demand precision off the tee. Strategic water hazards force you to think carefully about club selection and approach angles.

The Championship Experience

Having hosted the Japan Golf Tour Championship three times, Hourai maintains the conditioning standards you'd expect of a championship venue. The greens are immaculate and the fairways perfectly manicured.

Getting There

Hourai Country Club is approximately 2.5 hours from Tokyo by car via the Tohoku Expressway. We recommend staying overnight in the Nasu area to fully enjoy the experience.