Three nines beside the clear Naka River

Hitachi Omiya Golf Club, formerly Kabaya Golf Club, opened in November 1974 in the green hills of Hitachiomiya in northern Ibaraki. Its 27 holes, designed by Ichisuke Izumi, are split into three par-36 nines named Sakura, Ume and Kaede (cherry, plum and maple), each with its own character. The course sits within the natural surroundings of Mt. Gozen beside the Naka River; it is set on hilly ground, but elevation changes were kept gentle, and ponds come into play on holes such as Sakura's long 7th and Ume's opening par 5.

Three distinct nines in the hills, with water and greenery in harmony.

With bent greens and the flexibility of three nines, it is a relaxed, uncrowded choice for golfers exploring Ibaraki by car. The club is about 23 km from the Mito-Kita Smart interchange on the Joban Expressway, or around 20 minutes by taxi from Hitachi-Omiya Station on the JR Suigun Line. Afterwards, follow the Naka River toward Mito to see Kairakuen, one of Japan's three great gardens, famous for its plum blossoms in late winter, or head north up the Kuji valley toward Fukuroda Falls and its autumn colours.