Woodland Golf Between Two Waterfalls

Akiha Golf Club lies in the green hills of Shinshiro in eastern Aichi, in forest country between the Ajidaki Nanataki and Hyakken waterfalls. It opened in 1991 with a design by Nikken Sekkei. The 18 holes, par 72, measure 6,275 yards. Fairways were graded flat across hilly ground and the woodland was kept between holes, so elevation changes stay gentle. Ponds and bunkers come into play, but the bunkers are mostly shallow and the course is relatively short, which helps keep scores steady. Holes 11, with its creek, and 16, with a pond carry, are the real tests. The club is run by and for its members, yet visitors can book online.

Quiet forest fairways where wild lilies bloom, far from the city's rush.

Bentgrass greens average around 850 m², and some, like the 4th and 7th, have bold slopes. Riding carts come with GPS navigation. In early summer, wild sasayuri lilies flower along the course. Around Shinshiro you'll find the Okumikawa mountains, waterfall walks and the sacred peak of Horaiji-san with its long stone stairway. The Nagashino Castle battlefield is close by too. Come by car: the course is about 20–25 minutes from Shinshiro IC on the Shin-Tomei Expressway.