A gentle woodland course made with women golfers in mind

Kokusai Ladies Golf Club sits among the woods of Shimadadai in Yachiyo, Chiba, an easy drive east of central Tokyo. Opened in 1987 and designed by Shigeji Nakajima, it is a public, ladies-priority course on soft, gently rolling ground. The layout is played as 18 holes, par 72, with the front and back nines using different tees and different greens, so the second loop never feels like a repeat. The tree-lined holes are relaxed and approachable, yet the club likes to say men will still find a challenge here.

Easygoing, unpretentious and close to the city, it is golf without the pressure.

Electric carts keep the pace comfortable, there is a compact practice range for warming up, and two- and three-ball groups are welcome without a surcharge, which makes it a natural pick for beginners, seniors and anyone easing back into the game. It pairs well with a day in northern Chiba: the historic temple town of Narita and Sakura's samurai district are within reach, and Tokyo is close enough to be back in time for dinner. By train, take the Toyo Rapid Railway to Yachiyo-Midorigaoka Station, about ten minutes from the course by taxi.