Gentle pasture hills and a pond-guarded finish

Akita Kita Kūkō Classic Golf Club lies on the hills of northern Akita near Kita-Akita City, just ten minutes from Odate-Noshiro Airport. Opened in 2001 and designed by Takemasa Kitabayashi, the 18-hole, par-72 course measures 7,002 yards and is set on a former ranch whose rolling contours still recall its pasture past. Elevation changes between holes are mild and the sightlines are open: the gently undulating front nine offers scoring chances, while the flatter back nine brings trees and ponds into play, including a short hole over water at the 13th.

Wide views across the whole layout from the clubhouse, and bent greens players rave about.

Reviewers praise the value, the friendly staff and the condition of the greens, and the large practice range makes it easy to warm up. After the round the clubhouse offers a large bath. Northern Akita is wild, rural country: the Akita dog's home town of Ōdate, the Moriyoshi mountain area and the hot springs of the region make for a relaxed stay. The course is open from spring to late autumn, and with a flight of around 70 minutes from Haneda and a free airport pickup, it is surprisingly easy to reach from Tokyo.