5 Best Golf Courses with Stunning Mt. Fuji Views 🗻⛳

Play Golf in the Shadow of Japan's Sacred Mountain

Imagine standing on the tee box, driver in hand, as the morning sun illuminates the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji towering 12,389 feet above you. This is not just golf—this is a spiritual experience where sport meets natural wonder, where every swing is framed by one of the world's most iconic landscapes.

Japan offers something no other golf destination can replicate: the opportunity to play world-class courses with panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking challenging layouts or a casual player drawn to breathtaking scenery, these five courses deliver unforgettable rounds where golf and Japanese natural beauty converge.

The best time to see Mt. Fuji clearly is during autumn and winter months (October through February) when skies are crisp and clear. Early morning tee times offer the highest visibility, as clouds often obscure the mountain by afternoon. However, each season brings its own magic—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and golden foliage in fall.

1. Fujizakura Country Club – Cherry Blossoms Meet Sacred Mountain 🌸

Located at 1,000 meters elevation on Mt. Fuji's northern foothills, Fujizakura Country Club stands as one of Japan's premier tournament venues. Opened in 1975 and home to the prestigious Fujisankei Classic, this resort-style championship course offers unobstructed Mt. Fuji views from every single hole—a rare distinction among Japanese courses.

The course layout features strategic design with generous fairways separated by towering Japanese red pine and Japanese larch trees. At 7,187 yards from the championship tees (par 72), Fujizakura challenges skilled players while remaining accessible to mid-level golfers from forward tees.

What Makes It Special:

• Mt. Fuji visible from all 18 holes

• Host course for professional tournaments

• Spring brings fujizakura (Fuji cherry blossoms) carpeting the fairways

• Located in the scenic Fuji Five Lakes resort area

• High-altitude setting provides cooler summer temperatures

Best Season to Visit

Spring (April-May): The course's namesake fujizakura cherry blossoms create a pink-tinged fairway paradise. This is peak photo season when delicate blooms frame your Mt. Fuji backdrop—though spring weather can be unpredictable.

Autumn (September-November): Prime time for Mt. Fuji visibility. Clear, crisp days offer spectacular mountain views with brilliant fall foliage. October is ideal for combining perfect weather with autumn colors.

Summer (June-August): The high elevation keeps temperatures comfortable (20-25°C/68-77°F) when Tokyo swelters. Expect rich green fairways, though afternoon clouds may obscure Mt. Fuji.

Winter (December-February): Snow-capped Mt. Fuji at its most dramatic against brilliant blue skies. Course typically remains open, though check conditions during heavy snowfall periods.

Photography Hotspots 📸

Hole 7 Tee Box: Elevated position with Mt. Fuji centered perfectly behind the green

• Hole 13: Pine tree-framed view creates classic Japanese landscape composition

• Clubhouse Terrace: Panoramic vistas ideal for pre-round or post-round photos

• Hole 18 Approach: Finishing your round with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop

• Best Time: Dawn (6:00-7:00 AM) for golden hour magic; avoid afternoons when clouds gather
  

Access Information 🚗

From Tokyo (90-120 minutes):

• By Car: Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko IC (90 km, approximately 1.5 hours). Course provides free parking.

• By Train + Taxi: JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Otsuki Station (75 minutes), transfer to Fuji Kyuko Line to Kawaguchiko Station (50 minutes), then taxi (15 minutes, ¥3,000).

• Japan Golf Trip Private Transfer: Door-to-door luxury service available

Address: 3633-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0396

Nearby Attractions & Activities 🎌

Lake Kawaguchiko (10 minutes): Japan's most photographed Mt. Fuji reflection spot. Take the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for aerial views, or rent a swan boat for lake exploration.

Oishi Park (15 minutes): Seasonal flower gardens with Mt. Fuji backdrop—lavender in summer, cosmos in autumn.

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine (20 minutes): Historic shrine marking the traditional Mt. Fuji climbing trail start point. Ancient cedar trees create mystical atmosphere.

2. Kawana Hotel Golf Course - Fuji Course – Ocean Meets Mountain Glory 🌊

Course Overview

A masterpiece by legendary architect C.H. Alison (designer of Royal County Down), the Kawana Hotel Fuji Course opened in 1936 and ranks among the world's top 100 courses. This clifftop links-style layout on the Izu Peninsula offers a rare dual spectacle: Pacific Ocean crashing against 100-foot cliffs on one side, Mt. Fuji rising majestically in the distance on the other.

The course features Alison's signature elevated greens and deep, strategic bunkers carved into dramatic seaside terrain. At 6,691 yards (par 72), it demands accuracy over raw power, with coastal winds adding unpredictable challenge.

What Makes It Special:

• Ranked #35 in "100 Best Courses Outside the US"

• Host venue for major championships including 1957 Canada Cup (now World Cup of Golf)

• Historic resort hotel dating to 1936

• Unique combination of ocean views and Mt. Fuji backdrop

• Gary Player's favorite course in Japan (frequent visitor)

Celebrity Connection: The resort has hosted Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio (honeymoon), John Wayne, Japanese royalty, and international heads of state.

Best Season to Visit

Autumn (October-November): Optimal conditions with clear skies for Mt. Fuji viewing, comfortable temperatures (18-22°C/64-72°F), and manageable wind. November offers autumn foliage accent.

Winter (December-February): Best Mt. Fuji visibility due to crisp, dry air. Mild coastal climate keeps play comfortable (10-15°C/50-59°F) when inland courses face snow. Fewer crowds mean unhurried rounds.

Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms and wildflowers bloom. Moderate winds. Mt. Fuji visibility moderate but still impressive.

Summer (June-August): Warm but humid. Ocean breezes provide relief. July-August typhoon season can cause disruptions—check forecasts carefully.

Photography Hotspots 📸

• Hole 15 Tee Box: Dramatic clifftop position with ocean spray below and Mt. Fuji on horizon

• Hole 17 (Par 3): Alison's masterpiece—coastal chasm with green perched between cliffs

• Hole 9 Approach: Mt. Fuji framed between pine trees with ocean foreground

• Clubhouse Lawn: Sunset photos with Pacific and mountain silhouette

• Best Time: Late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM) for side-lit Mt. Fuji and golden ocean light

Access Information 🚗

From Tokyo (2-2.5 hours):

• By Train: JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Atami Station (50 minutes), transfer to JR Ito Line to Ito Station (25 minutes), then taxi (15 minutes, ¥3,500)

• By Car: Tomei Expressway to Atsugi IC, Route 135 coastal road (120 km, approximately 2 hours)

• Japan Golf Trip Coordination: Seamless booking with Kawana Hotel accommodation package

Address: 1459 Kawana, Ito-shi, Shizuoka 414-0044

Nearby Attractions & Activities 🎌

Ito Onsen Town (10 minutes): Historic hot spring resort with public bathhouses, seafood restaurants, and traditional atmosphere. Try kinmedai (golden eye snapper), the local specialty.

Jogasaki Coast (15 minutes): Dramatic volcanic coastline with suspension bridge and scenic hiking trails. Sunrise spot.

MOA Museum of Art (30 minutes in Atami): World-class collection of Asian art in stunning hillside setting with ocean views.

Izu Shaboten Zoo (20 minutes): Family-friendly attraction featuring capybaras bathing in hot springs—uniquely Japanese experience.

3. Fuji Classic – Hokusai's Art Meets Golf 🎨

Course Overview

Opened in 2003, Fuji Classic represents a revolutionary concept: golf course as living art gallery. Visionary designer Desmond Muirhead created this masterpiece at 1,200 meters elevation based on Katsushika Hokusai's legendary "Thirty-six Views of Mt. Fuji" woodblock print series.

Each of the 18 holes bears a name from Hokusai's collection and offers a distinct Mt. Fuji perspective, creating what the designer called "the closest golf course to Mt. Fuji in spirit." Holes like "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" and "Mt. Fuji from Minobu River" translate artistic vision into playable golf architecture.

What Makes It Special:

• Only golf course designed around an art concept

• Each hole named after Hokusai's famous prints

• Highest elevation course in this list (1,200m)

• Public access (unlike many exclusive Japan clubs)

• Created by designers of Japan's most prestigious private clubs

Best Season to Visit

Spring (April-May): Mountain wildflowers bloom across the course. Cool, crisp air (15-20°C/59-68°F). Cherry blossoms at lower elevations create beautiful approach to the course.

Summer (June-August): High elevation provides natural air conditioning (20-25°C/68-77°F). Lush, emerald-green fairways at peak condition. Afternoon mountain clouds add dramatic backdrop.

Autumn (September-November): Peak season. Crystal-clear Mt. Fuji views daily. Spectacular autumn foliage with golden larches. Ideal temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F).

Winter (December-February): Dramatic snow-capped Mt. Fuji dominates every hole. Course typically open except during heavy snowfall. Uncrowded rounds in pristine setting.

Photography Hotspots 📸

• Hole 8 "The Great Wave off Kanagawa": Artistic bunker design mimics Hokusai's famous wave

• Hole 13 Tee Box: Highest elevation point with 360-degree mountain panorama

• Hole 18 Approach: Final shot framed by Mt. Fuji—emotional finishing hole

• Clubhouse Viewing Deck: Museum-quality displays explaining Hokusai connection

• Best Time: Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) for Mt. Fuji clarity before clouds form

Access Information 🚗

From Tokyo (100-130 minutes):

• By Car: Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko IC, Route 139 south (approximately 2 hours). Free parking available.

• By Train: Limited public transport access—rental car or private transfer recommended

• Japan Golf Trip Service: Private transportation with English-speaking driver

Address: Narusawa Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture

Nearby Attractions & Activities 🎌

Narusawa Ice Cave & Fugaku Wind Cave (15 minutes): Natural lava tube caves with year-round ice formations. Fascinating geological tour.

Aokigahara Forest Edge (20 minutes): Ancient forest at Mt. Fuji's base. Guided nature walks available (stick to marked trails with guides).

Oshino Hakkai (25 minutes): Eight crystal-clear spring-fed ponds with traditional thatched-roof village. UNESCO World Heritage component site.

Mt. Fuji Radar Dome Museum (20 minutes): Learn about weather forecasting history with Mt. Fuji's former summit radar station.

4. Daihakone Country Club – Mountain Majesty in Hakone 🏔️

Course Overview

Spread across the majestic Sengokuhara plateau within the outer rim of Hakone's volcanic crater, Daihakone Country Club opened in 1954 and represents classic Japanese golf design by architects Komyo Otani and Yasuhiko Asaka. Managed by Prince Hotels & Resorts, the course combines championship-quality golf (7,285 yards, par 73) with resort luxury.

The layout features dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunker placement, and the famous Hole 17 "Lotus Hole"—an island green demanding precision over power. Two courses (Fuji and Otome) offer variety, with Mt. Fuji views appearing throughout both layouts.

What Makes It Special:

• Location within volcanic crater creates natural amphitheater

• Hakone resort area offers unmatched hot spring selection

• Host venue for CAT Ladies Pro Golf Tournament

• Prince Hotel luxury service standards

• Two distinct courses on property (36 holes total)
  

Best Season to Visit

Autumn (October-November): Peak foliage season in Hakone creates stunning red-and-gold landscape. Mt. Fuji visibility excellent. Post-golf onsen in autumn colors is magical. Book well in advance—popular season.

Spring (April-May): Cherry blossoms and azaleas bloom throughout Hakone. Moderate temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F). Tsutsuji (azalea) festival in nearby areas.

Summer (June-August): Mountain elevation provides relief from Tokyo heat. Lush green fairways. Some afternoon clouds, but comfortable play. Hydrangea season in June adds color.

Winter (December-February): Fewer crowds, dramatic snow-capped Mt. Fuji views. Hakone's onsen particularly inviting after chilly rounds. Occasional snow closures—verify conditions.

Photography Hotspots 📸

• Hole 17 "Lotus Hole": Famous island green with Mt. Fuji backdrop—signature photo

• Hole 8 Elevated Tee: Panoramic view across Sengokuhara plateau to Mt. Fuji

• Clubhouse Upper Terrace: Pre-round breakfast with mountain sunrise

• Hole 13 Approach: Autumn foliage frames fairway and distant Mt. Fuji

• Best Time: Morning rounds (7:00-9:00 AM) for clarity; afternoon provides dramatic side lighting
  

Access Information 🚗

From Tokyo (90-120 minutes):

• By Train: Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto (85 minutes), then taxi or hotel shuttle (20 minutes)

• By Car: Tomei Expressway to Gotemba IC, Route 138 to Hakone (approximately 90 minutes)

• Prince Hotel Shuttle: Complimentary for hotel guests from Hakone-Yumoto Station

• Japan Golf Trip Package: Coordinates seamlessly with Hakone resort stay

Address: Sengokuhara, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture

Nearby Attractions & Activities 🎌

Hakone Onsen District: Japan's premier hot spring resort area with hundreds of ryokan and public baths.

• Tenzan Onsen (15 minutes): Large outdoor rotemburo complex

• Hakone Kowakien Yunessun (20 minutes): Themed hot spring water park

Lake Ashi & Hakone Shrine (25 minutes): Scenic lake cruise with Mt. Fuji views. Famous red torii gate standing in water. Must-visit Hakone landmark.

Hakone Open-Air Museum (20 minutes): World-class sculpture garden featuring Picasso Pavilion and rotating contemporary art. Family-friendly.

Owakudani Volcanic Valley (20 minutes): Active sulfur vents and black eggs boiled in mineral springs (said to add seven years to your life!).

Hakone Ropeway: Aerial cable car journey over volcanic valley with spectacular views.

5. Fuji Golf Course – Historic Elegance at the Mountain's Foot 🌲

Course Overview

Opened in 1935 within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Fuji Golf Course stands as one of Japan's most historic and prestigious layouts. The only course supervised by engineering genius Dr. Kazue Akashi, it represents traditional Japanese golf design philosophy: working with natural terrain rather than imposing upon it.

The course utilizes Mt. Fuji's foothill topography brilliantly, with wide, relatively flat fairways separated by magnificent Japanese red pine forests. At approximately 6,400 yards, it emphasizes strategy and shot placement over distance. The intervals between holes are minimal, making this ideal for walking golf—a rarity in modern Japan.

What Makes It Special:

• Oldest operating course in this guide (since 1935)

• Only golf course fully within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

• Traditional design preserves natural landscape

• Ideal for walking golfers

• Red pine corridors create cathedral-like atmosphere

Best Season to Visit

Spring (April-May): Cherry blossom season transforms the surrounding forest. Moderate temperatures perfect for walking the course (15-20°C/59-68°F). Exceptional bird watching.

Autumn (September-November): Golden red pine needles carpet fairways. Mt. Fuji visibility at annual peak. Comfortable walking temperatures. November offers solitude and serenity.

Summer (June-August): Dense pine canopy provides shade for walking rounds. Morning dew on grass creates mystical atmosphere. Tee times before 9:00 AM recommended to beat heat.

Winter (December-March): Dramatic snow-capped Mt. Fuji dominates horizon. Crisp, clear air. Uncrowded rounds allow peaceful contemplation. Course typically open except during heaviest snowfall.

Photography Hotspots 📸

• Hole 3 Fairway: Classic red pine avenue with Mt. Fuji centered at fairway end

• Hole 12 Tee: Elevated position captures Mt. Fuji rising above pine forest

• Hole 16 Approach: Late afternoon light illuminates Mt. Fuji while pines provide frame

• Clubhouse Traditional Garden: Japanese landscape design with Mt. Fuji as "borrowed scenery" (shakkei technique)

• Best Time: Dawn (6:00-7:00 AM) for misty, atmospheric shots; dusk for silhouette images

Access Information 🚗

From Tokyo (120-150 minutes):

• By Train: JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Otsuki Station (75 minutes), transfer to Fuji Kyuko Line to Fuji-san Station (50 minutes), then taxi (20 minutes, ¥4,000)

• By Car: Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko IC, then Route 138 (approximately 2 hours). Free parking.

• Direct Bus: Odakyu Highway Bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko area (2.5 hours), then taxi

• Japan Golf Trip Transfer: Private vehicle with golf clubs securely transported

Address: Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi Prefecture

Nearby Attractions & Activities 🎌

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine (15 minutes): Historic pilgrimage starting point for Mt. Fuji climbers. 1,000-year-old cedar trees create spiritual atmosphere. Traditional architecture.

Fujisan World Heritage Center (20 minutes): Interactive museum explaining Mt. Fuji's cultural and natural significance. Essential context for your golf experience.

Chureito Pagoda (25 minutes): Instagram-famous five-story pagoda with Mt. Fuji backdrop. Worth the 400-step climb for cherry blossom or autumn foliage photos.

Fujiyoshida Weaving District: Traditional textile workshops. See artisans creating famous Kai-ki silk fabrics.

Need Help Planning Your Japanese Golf Experience?

Whether you're curious about the best courses for food lovers, want recommendations for regional specialties, or need help booking golf trips that include exceptional dining experiences, we're here to help.

Contact Japan Golf Trip:

• 📧 Email: japangolftrip@gmail.com

• 🌐 Website: www.japangolftrip.net

• 📱 We respond within 24 hours to all inquiries

We can assist with:

• Customized golf itineraries featuring the best clubhouse restaurants

• Tee time reservations at courses known for specific cuisine

• Dietary accommodation arrangements (vegetarian, allergies, religious requirements)

• Multi-course golf tours with culinary highlights

• Transportation and interpreter services

• Hotel and ryokan bookings near premier golf destinations

Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions about golf courses, dining options, cultural etiquette, or logistical concerns. We're passionate about creating unforgettable golf experiences in Japan!