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Asahikawa Golf Club

北海道, Japan

Asahikawa Golf Club is a 70-par, 18-hole course located in the Takiba district of Asahikawa, Hokkaido. The course layout spans 6,016 yards from the back tees and 5,723 yards from the regular tees. It was designed under the supervision of the Ryugasaki Country Club and its head professional, Eizo Igawa, opening in August 1957. The club was established on September 17, 1956, with Seiken Yamazaki as the first representative director and Kiichi Minami as the first president. The terrain is characterized by significant elevation changes, featuring numerous uphill and downhill shots that define the strategic nature of the layout. The front nine presents a mix of long and short holes, including a demanding par-5 third hole at 517 yards from the back tees and a short par-3 fourth that is described as the most difficult green on the course due to its surrounding trees, slopes, and water hazards. The back nine continues this challenging theme, highlighted by a par-3 twelfth hole that plays uphill with substantial elevation differences and OB risks. Key characteristics of the course include a reputation for difficult putting surfaces, particularly on the tenth hole, which is noted for being one of the most challenging greens in the region. The layout demands precision, with OB areas lining the left side of the first, third, and ninth holes, and water hazards guarding the right side of the thirteenth hole. Strategic shot placement is essential, as the course features doglegs, deep bunkers, and slopes that require careful club selection and accurate approach shots. The club maintains a strong focus on competitive play, hosting various official tournaments and open competitions throughout the season. As the club approaches its 70th anniversary, it continues to operate as a historic venue in Hokkaido, balancing its traditional layout with modern maintenance efforts to preserve its challenging character.