Open Competition

Sanyo Golf Club

岡山県, Japan

Sanyo Golf Club is a 18-hole championship course located in Hirayama, Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The course spans 7,221 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par of 72. It was designed by Jack Nicklaus Jr., who applied his "Challenging" course concept to create a layout where each hole presents a distinct strategic narrative. The design philosophy emphasizes fair but demanding play, rewarding players who can successfully navigate risks to gain positional advantages. The course is characterized by its varied terrain and strategic hazards. The front nine totals 3,634 yards, while the back nine measures 3,587 yards. Key challenges include the par-5 fifth hole, the longest on the course at 563 yards from the championship tees, which features a dogleg right with a water hazard and bunkers guarding the green. The par-5 fourth hole is another significant strategic test, measuring 563 yards, where a creek crosses the landing area and the approach plays uphill to a long, three-tiered green. The par-3 third hole offers a contrasting short but difficult challenge, with a green protected by deep bunkers on the left side. Sanyo Golf Club has a history of hosting major regional and national tournaments. It served as the venue for the 2005 All Japan Professional Golfers' Championship and the Adult Men's Competition of the 2005 National Sports Festival of Japan. The course continues to host significant events, including the RSK Cup Okayama Open Golf Championship and various Okayama Prefectural Senior Golf Championships. The facility includes a driving range with 25 bays extending to 300 yards.