Yabe Sun Valley GC ☆ Follow

Located in Yamato Town, Kashima District, Kumamoto Prefecture, Yabe Sun Valley Country Club is a 72-par, 18-hole golf course situated near the Kyushu Central Expressway. The layout is designed with a distinct elevation profile, featuring numerous downhill shots that define the strategic character of the round. The course offers multiple sets of tees to accommodate varying skill levels, with yardages ranging from 4,801 yards for the Ladies 2 tees up to 6,370 yards for the competition Back tees. The front nine begins with a demanding right dogleg downhill par-4 on the first hole, where players must navigate a fairway that slopes toward the right mountain base. The difficulty increases on the second hole, a downhill par-3 that requires precise distance control to avoid OB on the left and right rear corners. The opening stretch continues with a mix of par-4s and par-5s, including the 500-yard third hole and the 430-yard sixth, which tests the player's ability to manage distance on longer approach shots. The back nine presents significant challenges for long hitters, highlighted by the 15th and 18th holes. The 15th is a 480-yard par-5 recommended for driving distance, featuring a large bunker guarding the front of the green that penalizes short approaches. The closing hole is a 480-yard par-5 that offers an opportunity for a two-putt birdie but requires a careful drive to avoid right-side OB, followed by a long second shot over a substantial fairway bunker. The course also includes several other downhill par-3s, such as the 17th, which plays 167 yards from the regular tees. Situated in a region known for its water infrastructure, the course is in the vicinity of the Tsunozu Bridge, a significant cultural landmark. The facility includes a driving range with 16 bays, although maintenance work may occasionally restrict access. The course hosts regular member competitions and tournaments throughout the year, maintaining a schedule of monthly cups and senior championships.