Five Hundred Club ☆ Follow

Located in Shizuoka Prefecture at the foot of Mount Fuji, the Five Hundred Club is a 7,100-yard, par-72 championship course designed by Chiezo Miyazawa. Opened in October 1980, the facility sits on a vast hillside terrain that rises approximately 150 meters in elevation. The course layout is strategically divided by the clubhouse, with the outward course situated in the lower elevation area and the inward course positioned at the higher altitude. This design allows players to navigate the significant elevation changes without the difficulty becoming overly pronounced, creating a flow that utilizes the natural contours of the Aikawa mountain range. The course offers expansive views of Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and Suruga Bay. The outward nine holes present a wide, open character, while the inward nine holes provide a more strategic challenge as they traverse the mountainous terrain. The greens are maintained as bentgrass, specifically utilizing AG 007 and BG 007 varieties, which contribute to the course's reputation as a champion-level facility capable of hosting professional tournaments. The total course rating is listed at 70.9, though it is noted as not JGA certified. Miyazawa’s design philosophy emphasized creating a course that could be enjoyed by players of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. To achieve this, the architect incorporated multiple strategic options on each hole, allowing golfers to choose their own path based on their ability. The layout features varied hazards including trees, ponds, and strategically placed bunkers that demand tactical play. The course is further distinguished by specific floral themes assigned to individual holes, ensuring that the visual character of the course changes with the seasons. The facility includes a practice range with 18 hitting bays, bunker practice areas, and multiple practice greens. Play is conducted using five-person electromagnetic induction carts with caddies. The course is accessible via the Tomei Expressway, with the Numazu Interchange providing a short drive to the property. The design remains true to Miyazawa’s original vision of a course that matures over time, aiming for a standard of excellence that endures for decades.