Tee time in Tokyo: Exploring Japan’s golfing gems

Teeing off around the globe, golf captivates millions, from avid players to devoted viewers, especially during major tournaments. Japan’s rising golfing culture isn’t just making waves on the greens but also creating waves in the online casino arena with a growing number of golf-themed slots at Japanese casinos online. These games allow golf enthusiasts to experience their favorite sport in a new and exciting way while enjoying the thrill of casino gaming. So, what’s the buzz about golf in this Asian powerhouse, and who’s leading the leaderboard among its rising stars? 

Japan hosts half of Asia’s golf courses

One of the staggering facts that showcases the sport’s popularity in Japan is that half of the courses in the continent of Asia are situated in the nation. There’s little doubt that America still boasts the most significant golf industry, but Japan was quick to build on the initial popularity of the game in the 1980s when thousands of courses were built across the nation.

It’s fair to say that the sport’s popularity hasn’t exactly kicked on as much as organizers would have hoped, as participation in the sport has dropped considerably since 1996. That is echoed by the fact that the number of players in Japan since the mid-90s has dropped by a staggering 40%.

The financial boom in the 80s soon ended before the end of the decade, and that led to pressure on a huge number of courses across the nation. Golf was one of the pastimes that many opted against continuing, with memberships faltering. This led to dozens of private clubs closing, which relied on the membership fees to stay afloat.

New popularity among younger players

However, golf is enjoying somewhat of a resurgence recently, with a growing number of young players following a career in the sport. Japan’s attitude to the sport has shifted since 2010, with driving range figures showing that most customers are in their 20s and 30s.

That is way below the average age of players in the United States, which is 54. There was also a decrease in the average age of players in Japan before the start of the 2010s, which saw players often aged in their mid-50s and 60s. Not only that, but the sport is becoming more popular among young female players, which could partly be down to the success that Asian-born players have enjoyed on the LPGA Tour in recent seasons.

Japan’s Ayaka Furue, who won the 2022 Trust Golf Women’s Scottish Open

Successful Japanese professionals

Much of the newfound success among the younger demographic in golf will likely be down to the success that Asian-born players enjoy in the most prestigious tournaments. Among the most successful is Hideki Matsuyama, who ranks among the best players in the world on the PGA Tour. The star became the first-ever Japanese winner of the Masters after landing success in 2021, while further landmark victories have been achieved by Ryo Ishikawa.

However, it’s the success of Asian players on the LPGA Tour that has had the most profound impact on the popularity of the game in Japan. Those include 2019 Open champion Hinako Shibuno, who landed the Major glory aged just 22. Furthermore, Ai Suzuki has been one of the most consistent stars on the LPGA leg of the Japan Tour, having landed 17 victories throughout her career.

Asian players, in general, have inspired Japanese stars, with South Korean-born Ko Jin Young quickly becoming one of the most consistent players on the LPGA Tour. The 28-year-old won two major titles in 2019, landing the Chevron Championship and the Evian Championship. She remains a prominent star this season, having landed the HSBC Women’s World Championship in Singapore in March and the Cognizant Founders Cup in May.

Golf tourism in Japan

Japan has become an appealing golf tourism destination, drawing global enthusiasts to its unique courses. The country offers a rich golfing experience amid stunning landscapes, with diverse courses designed by renowned architects to suit various skill levels. Beyond golf, visitors can enjoy Japanese culture, cuisine, and historical sites. 

Conclusion

Golf in Japan is enjoying a resurgence in the modern era, with the huge names on the PGA and LPGA Tours both inspiring young players to try their hand at the sport. The fact that a considerable number of courses remain in Japan only heightens the ability to play the sport, and the fact that younger players are getting involved in the game can only be a good thing for golf’s long-term success in Japan. While it may never match the popularity levels in the United States, positives will be taken from the fact that the demographics are younger.