With the first snow of the season arriving earlier than usual, domestic golfers are turning their attention to overseas golf trips. In addition to traditional winter golf destinations like Thailand and Vietnam, the southern region of Japan is emerging as a new option due to its affordability and convenience.
The autumn golf season has barely concluded before winter has set in. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, the first snowfall of the year was observed in Seoul on November 8, 2026, which is 26 days earlier than last year and 12 days earlier than the average, marking the sixth earliest occurrence since records began in 1973.
Historically, Southeast Asia, with its warm climate, has been a popular choice for winter golf trips. However, during the peak winter season, golfers may face increased costs for golf courses and accommodations. In addition to green fees, golfers must consider additional expenses such as caddy fees, cart fees, and tips. Some popular golf courses may not differ significantly in price compared to domestic courses, prompting golfers to scrutinize their overall travel expenses more closely.
In contrast, many golf courses in Japan offer relatively low green fees. The self-round format, where players do not use caddies, is also common, helping to reduce additional costs. The ongoing depreciation of the yen has further enhanced Japan's price competitiveness in terms of local fees, accommodations, and dining.
Geographical accessibility is another advantage. Direct flights from Incheon to Kagoshima and Miyazaki in Kyushu take about 1 hour and 30 to 40 minutes. This shorter flight time compared to major Southeast Asian golf destinations makes it easier to plan short trips, such as two-night, three-day getaways, allowing golfers to enjoy both rounds and sightseeing while minimizing travel fatigue.
Kyushu is noted for its relatively mild climate even in winter, making it a year-round golf destination. Areas like Kagoshima and Miyazaki are recognized within Japan as winter golf regions, where outdoor rounds are possible depending on weather conditions. However, temperatures and snowfall can vary within the Kyushu region based on altitude and terrain, so checking local weather conditions before traveling is advisable.
Planning a stay that combines golf with hot springs, local tourism, and culinary experiences is also seen as an attractive option.
Domestic golf reservation platform XGolf and golf practice facility ShowGolf operate resorts in Japan's Kyushu region that combine golf courses, accommodations, and hot springs. They offer services tailored to the local climate and course conditions at the 'Satsuma Golf & Hot Spring Resort' in Kagoshima and the 'Akamiz Golf & Hot Spring Resort' in the Aso region.
A representative from ShowGolf stated, "While interest in winter overseas golf trips has traditionally focused on Southeast Asia's warm weather, it has become increasingly important to consider overall travel costs, including green fees, airfare, and accommodation. The southern region of Japan offers relatively affordable golf course fees, self-round options, and accessibility, making it a competitive choice for golfers planning winter trips."
They added, "In the future, overseas golf travel will likely shift from simply choosing warmer regions to focusing on how conveniently golfers can enjoy golf, relaxation, and tourism at reasonable costs."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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