Meishin Yokaichi Country Club ☆ Follow

Located in Higashiomi, Shiga Prefecture, Meishin Yokaichi Country Club is a 27-hole facility comprising three distinct nine-hole courses: the Suzuka, Hiei, and Ibuki courses. The club was designed by Masatada Soma and opened in 1965, initially featuring the 18-hole Suzuka and Hiei courses. The Ibuki course was added in 1976, bringing the total layout to 27 holes. The facility is situated in a scenic area known for its historical sites, with the courses set within pine forests that provide separation between the holes. The Suzuka course, which opened first, is characterized by wide fairways that allow for expansive shots, particularly on the long par-4 first hole and the consecutive par-5s at the second and third holes. The layout follows the natural terrain, with few bunkers guarding the fronts of the greens, encouraging running approaches. The Hiei course offers a flatter profile with moderate undulation, featuring four dogleg holes and two holes with trees in play, demanding strategic shot placement. The middle holes on the Hiei course are notably long and difficult, while the short par-4 eighth hole presents a stern test with a demanding green and surroundings. The Ibuki course, added later, provides a contrasting experience with a mix of bold and subtle holes. It features a demanding uphill long par-5 on the first hole and a long par-3 second hole surrounded by red pines. The layout includes strategic mid-length holes, such as the fourth, and distinctive features like the pine-lined seventh hole. The course is designed to offer variety, preventing monotony through its diverse hole characteristics. Meishin Yokaichi Country Club has a significant history of hosting major tournaments. It has hosted the Japan Women's Amateur Golf Championship multiple times, including the 13th edition in 1971 and the 66th in 2025. The club was the venue for the Japan Women's Open in 1974, won by Hisako Higuchi, and the Japan Professional Golf Championship in 1982, won by Masahiro Kuramoto. Other notable events include the Mitsubishi Galant Golf Tournament in 1980, won by Tsuyoshi Nakajima, and the LPGA Mazda Japan Classic in 1982, won by Nancy Lopez. The club also hosted the World Super Match in 1981, featuring players like Seve Ballesteros and Tom Watson. In recent years, it has hosted the 89th Kanto Open Golf Championship in 2024 and the 79th National Sports Festival Women's Golf Competition in 2025. The course underwent green renovation work supervised by Damian V. Pascuzzo starting in 2018.