Hakone Kohan Golf Course ☆ Follow

Located in Hakone-machi, Kanagawa Prefecture, the Hakone Kohan Golf Course is a 18-hole, par 72 layout set within the mountainous terrain of Sengokuhara. The course is characterized by its undulating, hilly nature, with the front nine featuring a mix of uphill and downhill shots. The fifth hole serves as the highest point on the course at an elevation of 782 meters, offering expansive views of Lake Ashi and the Owakudani volcanic valley. The back nine transitions to a relatively flatter terrain, though subtle undulations and thick tree lines separate the holes, demanding precise shot placement. The front nine presents a series of demanding challenges, highlighted by the signature fifth hole, a downhill par-4 where the tee shot must avoid left-side out-of-bounds and account for prevailing winds. The ninth hole provides a dramatic finishing shot with a steep downhill approach and out-of-bounds hazards on both sides. The course utilizes bentgrass fairways, allowing for consistent playing conditions throughout the year. Several blind shots and holes requiring carries over water or through narrow corridors of trees add to the difficulty, particularly for first-time players. The back nine includes the fourteenth hole, a 107-yard par-3 from the back tees that requires a carry over a pond, serving as a memorable test of distance control. The fifteenth hole is a long par-5 that doglegs left around a valley, rewarding distance off the tee. The course offers multiple tee boxes for men and women, with yardages ranging from approximately 2,700 to 3,200 yards depending on the tees selected. Play is conducted with motorized carts, and caddies are available to assist with the challenging layout. Facilities at the club include a lounge, restaurant, and competition rooms, alongside a driving range with ten bays offering 250-yard visibility. The course has hosted events such as the PIM Ladies Tournament, reflecting its suitability for competitive play. The combination of elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and water hazards creates a course that tests golfers of varying skill levels while providing scenic vistas of the Hakone region.