Ibaraki CC ☆ Follow

Located in Ibaraki, Osaka, Ibaraki Country Club is a 36-hole facility comprising two distinct 18-hole courses: the East Course and the West Course. The club is situated in a hilly landscape surrounded by mixed woods, with views extending toward the Ikoma Mountains to the east and the peaks of the Kitakita region to the north. The grounds feature irrigation ponds and natural terrain that have been integrated into the routing since the club's founding in the early 20th century. The East Course, completed in 1925, was designed by Scottish golf architect David Foot, who taught the Showa Emperor the game. It was later modified by English architect C.H. Alison, who emphasized the scenic beauty of the three large ponds on the property. The course features undulating fairways and bentgrass greens that demand strategic play and precise control. The routing follows the natural topography, with bunkers and greens blending into the surrounding forest and pine landscapes. This course has hosted the Japan Open Golf Championship three times. The West Course opened in 1961 and was designed by Seiichi Inoue. It underwent a significant renovation in 2011 by American architect Rees Jones, who updated the fairways and greens to meet modern tournament standards while preserving the original aesthetic. The layout offers multiple strategic routes for players of varying skill levels, featuring large water hazards, undulating fairways, and distinctive bunkers described as having a "nose and tongue" shape. The West Course has hosted the Japan Open twice, as well as the Japan Women's Open and the Asia-Pacific Open Golf Championship. The club is recognized for its long history in Japanese golf, having been a birthplace for major professional and amateur competitions. Its location, originally chosen for its accessibility from Osaka by train, is now reachable via the Shinkansen and air travel, making it a destination for golfers from across Japan. The facility maintains a strong emphasis on tradition and fellowship, with a layout that challenges both professionals and amateur golfers.