Golf Courses in Nara

34 courses in Japan’s first capital

Nara was Japan’s capital before Kyoto and it still feels older and slower than the rest of Kansai, which suits its golf. Courses sit on the Ikoma and Kongo hills that separate the Nara basin from Osaka — close enough to central Osaka for a morning round — and further south the land climbs into the Yoshino mountains, famous for the densest cherry blossom in Japan. Between rounds you have Todaiji, the deer park and Horyuji, the oldest wooden buildings on earth.

Golf in Nara at a glance

GolfMatchy lists 34 golf courses in Nara. 34 of the courses carry Google ratings, averaging 3.9 across 13,366 reviews. Best season: March to May and October to November, with mild winter play near the coast. Most international visitors arrive via Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Why Golf in Nara?

34 Golf Courses in Nara

For International Golfers

Kintetsu and JR lines connect Osaka and Kyoto to Nara in 35–45 minutes, with courses a taxi ride from the nearest station. April is peak season around Yoshino, so book early. The basin is hot and humid in midsummer — take the earliest tee time available.

More golf in Kansai

Osaka (45 courses) · Kyoto (34 courses) · Wakayama (24 courses) · Hyogo (83 courses) · Mie (39 courses) · Shiga (36 courses)

Golf in Nara: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play golf in Nara and still see the temples?

Yes, comfortably. Most Nara courses are 30–45 minutes from Nara Park, so a morning round and an afternoon at Todaiji and the deer park is a normal day. Horyuji is on the same side of the basin as several courses.

Where is the best cherry blossom golf in Kansai?

Southern Nara, around Yoshino. The mountain is planted with tens of thousands of cherry trees and is regarded as the finest blossom site in Japan; courses in the surrounding hills play through the same landscape in early to mid-April. Book well ahead — the whole region fills up.

How many golf courses are there in Nara?

GolfMatchy lists 34 golf courses in Nara. Every one of them can be booked in English through our concierge.

When is the best time to play golf in Nara?

March to May and October to November, with mild winter play near the coast. Weekdays are cheaper and far less crowded than weekends and public holidays in Nara.

How do I get to golf courses in Nara?

Most international golfers arrive via Kansai International Airport (KIX). Many Japanese courses run a free shuttle from the nearest train station, and GolfMatchy sends the closest station, shuttle details and directions with every confirmed Nara booking.

Book with our concierge · How to book golf in Japan as a foreigner · Japan golf etiquette guide · All Japan golf courses