Join us on a 12-day golf journey through Japan, where unforgettable fairways meet ancient temples, lush forested hills and lively city streets. Tee off at some of the country’s finest courses, then wander Kyoto’s lantern-lit lanes, discover hidden pottery villages, relax in soothing onsens and savour the delicious local cuisine. From the buzz of Tokyo to the quiet beauty of Shigaraki and the coastal elegance of Kobe, this is Japan beyond the postcards. A journey of contrasts, charm and genuine warmth, where every day holds a little magic, both on and off the course.

This is Japan for golfers seeking more than just a game. It’s a rich travel experience you’ll remember long after the final putt drops, escorted by your On The Tee host and our trusted local partner in Japan.

19 May 2026 - DAY 1 - (Lunch, Dinner) Arrival and explore Ibaraki

As you’ll be arriving early on an overnight flight, we’ll stop en route to Mito to refresh and refuel.

Then, take in the natural beauty of Mount Tsukuba, with its sweeping views over the Kanto Plain. Ride the ropeway to the summit and on a clear day, catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. For those keen to stretch their legs, a short, gentle hike leads to the very peak for spectacular 360-degree views.

After lunch, we’ll head to the local distillery to explore the art of sake brewing, followed by tastings of their finely crafted, locally-produced sake, set against the scenic backdrop of Mount Tsukuba.

We’ll check into the Mito Plaza Hotel, relax and refresh before this evening’s welcome dinner of Hitachi Wagyu - a premium brand of black Wagyu from Ibaraki Prefecture, prized for its rich marbling, tenderness, and exceptional flavor.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Mito Plaza Hotel

20 May 2026 - DAY 2 - (Breakfast) Golf at Shishido Hills Country Club

You’re in for a real treat at one of Japan’s most celebrated and scenic golf clubs. We’ll take to the West Course, a beautifully considered layout by Akira Hochi, protégé of the legendary Seiichi Inoue. With immaculate fairways, thoughtful design, and sweeping mountain views, it’s no surprise this course has hosted the Japan Golf Tour Championship since 2003. It’s a round that promises both challenge and charm.

A welcoming clubhouse, and excellent practice facilities round out the experience. And as is tradition in Japan, we’ll pause for lunch at the turn - a perfect chance to refuel and swap stories. Lunch at own expense.

Enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner at the hotel this evening. Dinner at own expense.

Overnight: Mito Plaza Hotel

21 May 2026 - DAY 3 - (Breakfast) Golf at Oarai Golf Club

Oarai Golf Club is the oldest course in Ibaraki Prefecture and a celebrated masterpiece by Japan’s legendary course architect, Seiichi Inoue. Consistently ranked among Japan’s top courses - currently ranked #4 by top100golfcourses.com and a regular on Golf Digest’s World’s 100 Greatest - it’s a true icon of Japanese golf.

Set along the Pacific coastline, the course offers a peaceful setting where ocean breezes, whispering pines, and clever, classic design come together beautifully. Expect immaculate fairways, thoughtfully placed bunkers, and quick, true greens - a course that rewards both creativity and strategy.

You’ll have an experienced caddie on hand to help you navigate its charms and subtleties. In true Japanese style, the round includes a relaxed mid-round lunch break at the clubhouse (at your own expense) - a welcome chance to soak up the seaside air and atmosphere before heading back out.

Please note this is a walking course, which only adds to its timeless, natural charm. After your round, your clubs will be couriered ahead to Tarao Country Club, ready for your next day on the fairways.

Free evening.

Overnight: Mito Plaza Hotel

22 May 2026 - DAY 4 - (Breakast, Lunch) - Moving Day and Ibaraki Sightseeing

We’ll check out after breakfast and enjoy a few sightseeing stops on our way to Tokyo.

Our first stop is a photo opportunity at Isosaki Shrine, Ibaraki’s most iconic coastal landmark, famous for its striking torii gate standing gracefully in the sea. Next, we’ll visit Hitachi Seaside Park, renowned for its sweeping seasonal flower displays. After taking in the floral splendour, we’ll journey to Tokyo for an unforgettable lunch at Musashi 634, Japan’s highest restaurant. Perched atop Tokyo Skytree, this extraordinary dining experience pairs exquisite cuisine with sweeping, sky-high views across the city.

Following lunch, we’ll check in to our Tokyo hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.

Overnight: Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, Tokyo, or optional upgrade to Grand Prince Shin Takanawa

23 May 2026 - DAY 5 - (Breakfast) Explore Tokyo by Train

Explore Tokyo like a local by train, visiting famous landmarks and hidden neighborhoods with our guide sharing insider stories along the way.

Highlights include Sensoji Temple, the Imperial Palace Gardens, and the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Dive into Harajuku’s Takeshita Street for bold fashion and quirky treats, then find calm at the peaceful Meiji Jingu Shrine. We’ll stop for a casual lunch en route (at own expense) before heading back.

Pack an overnight bag as your main luggage will be sent ahead to Kyoto by courier, making tomorrow’s Shinkansen journey hassle-free.

Free evening.

Overnight: Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, Tokyo, or optional upgrade to Grand Prince Shin Takanawa

24 May - DAY 6 - (Breakfast) Bullet train to Kyoto and visit to Shigaraki

We’ll travel to Kyoto aboard the iconic bullet train - a fast, smooth, and unforgettable way to glide through Japan’s beautiful landscapes.

From Kyoto, we’ll head to the countryside town of Shigaraki, known for its traditional pottery, scenic golf courses, and rich tea culture. We’ll visit the stunning Miho Museum, famous for its striking architecture and impressive art collection, followed by lunch in Shigaraki (at own expense).

Free evening. We’ll share some great local dinner recommendations within easy walking distance.

Overnight: Nikko Princess, Kyoto

25 May 2026 - DAY 7 - (Breakfast) Golf at Tarao Country Club

Nestled in the scenic town of Koka in Shiga, Tarao Country Club has earned a reputation as one of Japan’s top-tier golf destinations and hosted the Japan leg of the U.S. Open final qualifying event in May and will also be the venue for the Japan Open Golf Championship in 2026. Its two distinctive courses , each showcase its own set of challenges and beauty. The East Course winds through lush forests and rolling hills, providing golfers with a serene and picturesque setting to test their skills. In contrast, the West Course,which we’ll be playing, boasts dramatic elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that add an element of excitement to every round.

We’ll return to the hotel after golf, refresh and head out to Gion. As evening falls, the streets glow with softly lit lanterns, and the area comes alive with elegant restaurants, intimate bars, and traditional teahouses. Stroll through atmospheric backstreets, discover tucked-away temples and shrines, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a geiko or maiko gracefully making their way to an evening engagement.

Dinner at own expense.

Overnight: Nikko Princess, Kyoto

Wandering Kyoto feels like stepping back in time, with ancient temples, shrines, and quiet streets preserving the city’s rich heritage. Highlights include Kinkaku-ji, the shimmering Golden Pavilion; Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its endless tunnels of vermilion torii gates; and the serene beauty of Arashiyama’s famous bamboo grove and riverside charm. We’ll keep the day flexible, adjusting to crowds and conditions to ensure a relaxed, comfortable experience.

In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to Kobe, a cosmopolitan port city nestled between the Rokko Mountains and Seto Inland Sea, famed for its scenic waterfront, rich history, and legendary Kobe beef.

The hotel is just a 10-minute stroll from Sannomiya, Kobe’s lively downtown district. Dinner recommendations will be shared.

Overnight: Oriental Hotel, Kobe

28 May 2026 - DAY 10 (Breakfast) - Arima Royal GC - Royal Course

Arima Royal Golf Club is a prestigious 36-hole venue, with the Royal Course designed by Japan’s Osamu Ueda. Inspired by C.H. Allison, it features elevated greens, classic short holes, and a dynamic layout that follows the natural landscape. Set in scenic, hilly terrain, it offers a strategic, memorable round.

By now, you’ll be well-versed in the art of ordering lunch at the turn - with your Japanese-speaking guide always nearby to lend a hand if needed.

After the game, relax in the club’s traditional onsen before returning to the hotel for a free evening.

Overnight: Oriental Hotel, Kobe

29 May 2026 (Breakfast, Dinner) - Golden Valley Golf Glub and Farewell Dinner

Our final round is at Golden Valley Golf Club, an exhilarating Robert Trent Jones Jr. creation. Carved through towering pines and laced with stone-lined creeks, this course isn’t just beautiful - it’s built to test you. Golden Valley is famous for its daring water hazards, sweeping elevation changes, and demanding shots.

Regularly ranked among Japan’s top 10 courses, it’s a true championship venue and a firm favourite within our On The Tee community. The fairways are long and undulating, the greens flawless, and the final stretch? Famously unforgiving. It’s the kind of course that demands your best  and leaves you wanting to come back for more.

This evening we’ll enjoy a Kobe Beef Yakiniku Dinner and toast the winners of the golf competition.

Hotel: Prince Park Tower Tokyo

30 May 2026 (Breakfast) - Sightseeing - Himeji Castle and Naruto Whirlpools

We’ll check out after breakfast for our last adventure together.

We’ll visit Himeji Castle, known as the White Heron Castle, rises gracefully with its gleaming white walls and layered rooftops. Its peaceful grounds and timber interiors echo centuries of samurai history.

Next, we’ll cross the soaring Akashi Kaikyō Bridge to Awaji Island, a relaxed coastal escape where mountains meet the sea. We’ll board a sightseeing cruise to view the famous Naruto Whirlpools - a natural spectacle formed by powerful tides surging between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

At Naruto, we’ll enjoy a final lunch together (at own expense). 

After lunch, we’ll transfer to Itami Airport for our flight to Haneda and onward to Sydney - heading home with wonderful memories, new friends, and stories to share.