Sea views over the Hyuga-nada coast

Cherry Golf Nobeoka Course opened in April 1990 on hills above Nobeoka in northern Miyazaki Prefecture. It is an 18-hole, par-72 course measuring 6,924 yards from the back tees, designed by the Sato Kogyo design department. The holes follow the natural lie of the land, so accurate shots and careful strategy count for more than raw length. Two sets of greens, bent and Tifton, add variety, and the mild local climate keeps summers cool and winters warm, which makes it a comfortable place to play all year.

From the front nine the Hyuga-nada sea opens up below, and on clear days the mountains of Shikoku appear on the horizon.

The front nine looks out over the Hyuga-nada sea and the rugged ria coastline of northern Miyazaki, which is the course's best-known feature. After the round there is a restaurant, a pro shop and a large communal bath in the clubhouse. Nobeoka is a good base for exploring Kyushu's quieter east coast, and the gorges and shrines of Takachiho are within easy driving distance inland. Most visitors arrive by car. Book through the club's website.