Golf and hot springs at Japan's original spa resort

The golf course at Spa Resort Hawaiians lies in the hills above Iwaki-Yumoto in southern Fukushima, between the Abukuma Mountains and the Pacific, where the climate is mild for northern Japan. Opened in October 1977 and designed by Seizo Tomizawa, it offers 27 holes across three nines, East, West and Central, totalling 9,841 yards at par 108. The terrain is hilly with real overall slope, and tree plantings give it the feel of a forest, yet the layout is generous and straightforward. Long distances punish wild drives and make club selection matter.

Play in the morning, then soak, swim and watch the hula show, all without moving your car.

What sets it apart is the resort next door. Spa Resort Hawaiians is one of Japan's best-known hot-spring parks, with onsen baths, pools and its famous Polynesian dance shows, and golf packages with a night at Hotel Hawaiians include admission. The course itself has a hot-spring bath, GPS riding carts, and the choice of a caddie or self-play. Iwaki-Yumoto is an old onsen town in its own right, and the nearby coast is known for fresh seafood. The club bus meets guests at JR Yumoto Station by reservation, overnight guests can ride a free bus from the Tokyo area, and drivers are about 5 km from the Iwaki-Yumoto IC on the Joban Expressway.