A Little Links-Side Nine by the Sea of Japan

Kashiwazaki Seaside Golf Club opened in October 1975 on the Arahama shore in Kashiwazaki, Niigata. Tomiichi Fukuda designed this nine-hole, par-32 course of five par 4s and four par 3s. Most golfers play it twice as an 18-hole round of just over 4,000 yards. It is short, but the gentle slopes, natural-grass tees and sea breeze make it a technical test, and it is open every day of the year. There are no riding carts, so you walk with a free pull cart.

No frills and no pretension, just golf with the sea breeze for company.

This is a no-frills local course, a good choice for beginners, families or a quick early round. Very early tee times run on a self-service basis with no booking. Rental clubs and shoes are free, though supply is limited. Facilities are simple: showers but no restaurant or shop. The 250-yard floodlit range stays open into the evening. Afterwards you can explore Kashiwazaki's beaches and seafood restaurants, or drive along the Japan Sea coast toward Niigata or Joetsu. The course is about 15 minutes by car from Kashiwazaki IC on the Hokuriku Expressway, and parking is free. Bring cash, because cards are not accepted.