Is golf really cheaper in Thailand than in Japan?

Yes. In Japan, weekend green fees can exceed 20,000 JPY ($130–$150 USD) before adding cart and caddy costs. In Thailand, the same amount typically covers a premium course, personal caddy, golf cart, and often hotel transfers. Thailand delivers much better value.

Why do Japanese golfers prefer Thailand for golf holidays?

Japanese golfers choose Thailand for its relaxed atmosphere, year-round playable weather, and the ability to combine golf with beaches, spas, shopping, and nightlife. In Japan, golf often feels formal and time-consuming, while in Thailand it feels like a holiday.

How does the golf culture in Thailand differ from Japan?

Japan’s golf culture emphasizes tradition, etiquette, and structure—often with meal breaks and reserved routines. Thailand offers flexibility: easy tee time bookings, casual dress, caddy service, and no long waits. It’s golf designed around enjoyment rather than formality.

What are the top Thai destinations for Japanese golfers?

Popular spots include: Phuket for tropical island golf at Red Mountain, Blue Canyon, and Laguna. Pattaya for variety and entertainment, with courses like Siam Country Club and Chee Chan. Hua Hin for relaxed, championship-level play at Black Mountain, Pineapple Valley, and Springfield.

Do Japanese citizens need a visa to travel to Thailand for golf?

Thailand has often allowed Japanese passport holders to enter without a visa for short stays. However, entry rules can change, so it’s best to confirm the latest requirements with official authorities or your travel agent before planning your golf holiday.

Is Thailand a good choice for golf groups from Japan?

Yes. Thailand is especially popular with Japanese golf societies and friend groups. Courses and resorts cater to groups with block bookings, private transfers, and post-round activities, making it easy to balance golf and social time.

Can Japanese travelers rent golf clubs in Thailand?

Absolutely. Nearly every top course and resort offers high-quality rental sets. Many Japanese golfers prefer to rent in Thailand rather than bring their clubs, and Fairways of Eden can pre-arrange premium sets.

How do Thailand’s golf holidays compare to Japan in overall experience?

In Japan, a golf trip is mainly about the game itself. In Thailand, golf is just one part of a larger holiday. After a round, travelers enjoy beaches, spas, Thai cuisine, island tours, and nightlife—all within the same trip.

태국 골프 vs 일본 골프 – 일본 골퍼들이 꿈의 골프 여행지로 태국을 재발견하고 있다

23 7월 2025

A Closer Look at Two Very Different Golfing Worlds

When it comes to golf, both Thailand and Japan are standout destinations – but for very different reasons. While Japan is home to tradition-rich clubs, refined etiquette, and a deep respect for the sport, Thailand delivers a more relaxed, tropical, and highly accessible golfing experience. It’s no wonder that more and more Japanese golfers are trading rigid tee sheets and strict routines for palm trees, personal caddies, and beachfront views. In this comparison of golf in Thailand vs. Japan, we explore what sets these two countries apart – from course access and travel convenience to the overall holiday experience. Whether you’re a passionate player or a casual weekend golfer, this guide will help you understand why Thailand is fast becoming the preferred choice for Japanese golf travelers.

Golf is deeply rooted in Japan – but not always easy to enjoy

Japan is one of the most golf-loving nations in the world. With over 2,300 golf courses, a long list of top-tier professionals like Hideki Matsuyama and Rikuya Hoshino, and a tradition of corporate golf that shapes business relationships across the country, the sport is as culturally significant as it is popular. But while the love for the game is deep, playing it regularly – especially as part of a true holiday experience – can be more complicated than many would expect. Here´s why:

Rounds are time-consuming

Many Japanese golf courses enforce a full-day structure, with tee times starting early, mid-round meal breaks, and long waits on weekends.

Formal expectations

Dress codes, reserved behavior, and club traditions can sometimes overshadow the joy of the game.

High costs

Even standard rounds can cost the equivalent of luxury experiences abroad, especially on weekends or holidays.

Weather limitations

With harsh winters in the north and rainy seasons in other parts of the country, playable days are limited.

For younger players, women, casual golfers, or those simply seeking a relaxing time, these restrictions have turned golf from a passion into something that requires serious planning, time, and money. It’s no surprise then that more and more Japanese golfers are looking outward—and Thailand has quickly become their tropical, tee-ready escape.

🏝 Thailand: Where Golf Meets True Freedom

Golf in Thailand is a different world. Whether you’re teeing off beside the Andaman Sea, threading a fairway through jungle-covered hills, or finishing your round with a beachfront Thai meal, the whole experience is tailored toward ease, enjoyment, and unforgettable memories. In short, it’s everything Japanese golfers don’t always get at home:

⛳ Walk-on access at most courses 🛺 Short transfers from resorts to the fairway 💆‍♂️ Spa treatments after your round 🥥 Tropical backdrops and warm weather year-round 🎉 A holiday built around golf, not the other way around

Even more importantly, Thailand doesn’t try to control how you enjoy the game. You can play early or late, wear what you feel comfortable in, rent premium clubs or bring your own, and mix in amazing off-course experiences every single day.

✈️ Why Japanese Golfers Keep Choosing Thailand for Their Golf Holidays

The bond between Japanese travelers and Thailand is already strong. Over 1.5 million Japanese tourists visit Thailand each year—not just for golf, but for the full range of wellness, cultural, food, and nature experiences that Thailand does so well. Now, golf is moving from the “bonus activity” list to the main reason to travel. Here’s why Thailand hits the sweet spot for Japanese golfers:

1. Golf-Friendly Weather Year-Round

No need to worry about seasonal closures or snow. From Bangkok to Phuket, Thailand enjoys warm, playable conditions every month of the year. Rainy season rounds are usually still possible in the mornings, with quick drainage on most top-tier courses.

2. Golf Without Barriers

Thailand’s golf scene is designed for public access. Most courses allow anyone to book a tee time, without membership, formal introduction, or strict behavior rules. That freedom makes it easy to plan a golf holiday without stress or awkwardness.

3. Incredible Value

For what you pay in Japan for a weekday round, you could be enjoying a luxury course in Thailand complete with: A dedicated caddy 🧑‍🦱 A golf cart 🛺Scenic fairways and top-notch facilities 🏌️And even a sunset drink by the pool after your round 🍹

4. Golf and Non-Golf Balance

Whether you’re traveling with a spouse who doesn’t golf, with friends who want adventure, or as part of a group with mixed interests, Thailand offers something for everyone. Play a morning round, then explore temples, beaches, Thai massages, or nightlife.

5. Easy Access and Direct Flights

Thailand is well connected to Japan with direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka and more to Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. Visa-free entry and tourism-focused infrastructure make the entire process smooth and hassle-free.

🏌️‍♂️ Where Japanese Golfers Prefer to Play in Thailand

Japanese travelers tend to be highly selective about quality. The good news? Thailand delivers. Let’s look at the top destinations that keep Japanese golfers coming back year after year.

Phuket – Island Paradise with Championship Courses

Phuket is the perfect mix of tropical island holiday and elite-level golf. It’s often the top pick for golfers combining luxury and leisure.

Red Mountain Golf Club – A dramatic layout carved through jungle and red rock cliffs, often ranked Thailand’s most beautiful.
Blue Canyon Country Club (Lakes Course) – A former home of the Johnnie Walker Classic, known for its bold design and lush greenery.
Laguna Golf Phuket – Set within a luxury resort area, this course is perfect for couples or families seeking an all-in-one golf and beach stay.

Pattaya – Golf Meets Entertainment and Convenience

Just a two-hour drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Pattaya is ideal for short stays, group golf tours, and nightlife-lovers.

Laem Chabang – A world-class 27-hole Jack Nicklaus design with elevation changes and manicured fairways.
Siam Country Club (Old, Plantation, Waterside) – Home to the LPGA Thailand, all courses are pristine, professional, and perfect.
Chee Chan Golf Resort – One of Thailand’s newest gems, set against the dramatic backdrop of the golden Buddha mountain.

Hua Hin – Coastal Calm with a Golfing Heart

For those seeking a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, Hua Hin offers elegant beachfront hotels and some of Thailand’s finest courses.

Black Mountain – Ranked as one of Asia’s best courses, with championship pedigree and incredible conditioning.
Pineapple Valley Golf Club – Formerly Banyan, this scenic course delivers peaceful rounds and top service.
Springfield Royal – A forgiving layout that still challenges, great for mixed-ability groups and relaxed rounds.

🏨 It’s More Than Golf – It’s a True Holiday

This is where Thailand really wins.

In Japan, a golf trip is often just that—a trip for golf. But in Thailand, the same trip can include:

🌊 Longtail boat rides or private yacht charters
🛍 Shopping trips and local night markets
🍣 Thai-Japanese fusion dining in beachfront settings
🍵 Spa treatments and wellness retreats
🎭 Cultural shows, temples, and historical day tours

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a society group, Fairways of Eden helps you mix golf with meaning. You’re not just booking tee times—you’re planning experiences.

You decide:

🏨 Where to stay (budget or luxury)
⛳ How often to play
🍹 What kind of activities you want outside the course

Everything is fully customizable and booked in one place.

FAQ: 태국 vs 일본 골프

태국에서 골프가 일본보다 정말 저렴한가요?

네. 일본에서는 주말 그린피가 20,000엔(약 130~150 USD) 을 넘는 경우가 많으며, 여기에 카트와 캐디 비용이 추가됩니다. 태국에서는 같은 금액으로 보통 프리미엄 코스, 개인 캐디, 골프카트, 호텔 픽업 및 이동 서비스까지 포함됩니다. 태국은 훨씬 뛰어난 가성비를 제공합니다.

일본인 골퍼들이 골프 휴가지로 태국을 선호하는 이유는 무엇인가요?

일본인 골퍼들은 편안한 분위기, 연중 플레이 가능한 날씨, 그리고 골프와 함께 해변, 스파, 쇼핑, 나이트라이프를 즐길 수 있다는 점 때문에 태국을 선택합니다. 일본에서는 골프가 형식적이고 시간 소모적인 경우가 많지만, 태국에서는 진정한 휴가처럼 느껴지는 경험을 할 수 있습니다.

태국과 일본의 골프 문화는 어떻게 다른가요?

일본의 골프 문화는 전통과 예절, 형식을 중시하며, 라운드 도중의 식사 시간이나 정해진 루틴이 일반적입니다. 반면 태국은 유연성이 돋보입니다. 간단한 티타임 예약, 캐주얼한 복장, 캐디 서비스, 긴 대기 시간 없음 등, 태국의 골프는 형식보다 즐거움 중심으로 설계되어 있습니다.

일본인에게 인기 있는 태국의 주요 골프 여행지는 어디인가요?

대표적인 인기 목적지는 다음과 같습니다:

푸켓 – 레드 마운틴, 블루 캐니언, 라구나에서 즐기는 트로피컬 아일랜드 골프.
Pattaya for variety and entertainment, with courses like Siam Country Club and Chee Chan.
후아힌 – 편안한 분위기 속에서 챔피언십 레벨의 플레이. 블랙 마운틴, 파인애플 밸리, 스프링필드가 유명.

일본인이 태국에서 골프를 하려면 비자가 필요한가요?

일본 여권 소지자는 단기 체류 시 무비자로 입국할 수 있는 경우가 많습니다. 다만, 입국 규정은 변경될 수 있으므로 여행 전 공식 기관이나 여행사를 통해 확인하는 것이 좋습니다.

태국은 일본에서 오는 골프 단체 여행에 적합한가요?

네. 태국은 특히 일본의 골프 동호회, 친구 그룹, 골프 모임에 인기가 많습니다. 골프장과 리조트는 호텔 단체 예약, 전용 차량 이동, 라운드 후 액티비티 등을 지원하여 골프와 사교 활동을 쉽게 결합할 수 있습니다.

일본인 여행자는 태국에서 골프 클럽을 대여할 수 있나요?

물론입니다. 거의 모든 주요 코스와 리조트에서 고품질 렌탈 세트를 제공합니다. 많은 일본인 골퍼들은 장비를 직접 가져오기보다 현지에서 대여하는 것을 선호하며, Fairways of Eden을 통해 프리미엄 클럽을 사전에 예약할 수도 있습니다.

태국의 골프 휴가는 일본과 비교해 어떤 차이가 있나요?

일본에서의 골프 여행은 주로 경기 자체에 초점이 맞춰져 있습니다. 그러나 태국에서는 골프가 전체 휴가의 일부에 불과합니다. 라운드 후에는 해변, 스파, 태국 음식, 섬 투어, 나이트라이프까지 즐길 수 있어, 한 번의 여행에서 다양한 경험을 할 수 있습니다.

🎯 Ready for a Golf Trip That Feels Like a Reward?

If you’re ready to experience golf in a way that’s stress-free, beautiful, and full of unforgettable memories, Thailand is calling. No complicated bookings. No rigid routines. Just great golf, stunning views, and a holiday designed around you.

👉 Start planning your Thai golf holiday with Fairways of Eden now