岐阜県, Japan
Located in the southwestern part of Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, Gifu Seki Country Club is a 36-hole facility set within a hilly landscape. The course was designed by renowned architect Haruo Ueda and officially opened in 1964. The property is divided into two distinct 18-hole courses, the East Course and the West Course, each offering a different strategic challenge for golfers. The East Course is a demanding 7,306-yard layout with a par 72 and a course rating of 76.0. The holes are largely separated, providing a relatively flat terrain where the primary difficulty arises from strategically placed hazards and subtle undulations around the greens. The layout requires precise distance control and strategic shot-making, with several long par-4s and par-5s testing the length of the game. The course features specific holes recommended for driving distance, including the 3rd, 7th, 11th, and 15th, while others like the 2nd, 5th, 12th, and 14th reward accuracy. In contrast, the West Course offers a more open design with wider fairways and a par 72. Measuring 6,958 yards from the black tees with A greens, or 6,767 yards with B greens, the West Course allows for play with a motorized cart. The layout features several tee shots that are played from an elevated position, requiring accurate distance judgment. Some holes offer a clear view of the green from the tee, encouraging aggressive driver play, while others incorporate water hazards that add both strategic complexity and aesthetic appeal. The course is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seniors. Since its inception, the club has hosted numerous tournaments and official competitions, establishing a reputation as a well-known venue in Japan. The facility has been associated with the development of professional players, including Seiji Inoue and Yuko Moriguchi. The East Course is noted for its dignified character, blending the strategic difficulty of Ueda’s design with the natural beauty of the surrounding greenery.
