Otani Golf Course ☆ Follow

Located in the hilly terrain of the Nukunoyama area in Shizuoka, Otani Golf Course offers an 18-hole short course perched on a slope overlooking the Suruga Bay and the city of Shizuoka. The layout spans 1,976 yards with a total par of 55, designed to provide a fast-paced round that typically takes around two hours to complete. The course is situated near the Kunoisan Smart IC, utilizing the natural elevation changes of the hillside to create a variety of challenging shots. The front nine is dominated by short par-3 holes, with the first six holes all playing at par 3 and ranging from 61 to 103 yards. These holes often require players to carry valleys or water hazards, with the sixth hole noted for its valley-crossing shot over the Nukunokoshi strawberry fields. The seventh hole stands out as the only par 4 on the course, offering a 239-yard driveable hole with a wide fairway that allows for a driver shot. The back nine continues the short-course format, featuring a mix of par 3s and a single par 4, with the eleventh hole serving as the most difficult test at 163 yards over water. Key characteristics of the course include its elevation changes and wind conditions. Several holes, such as the ninth and fifteenth, are uphill shots where a failure to reach the green can result in the ball rolling back down the slope. The eleventh and seventeenth holes are particularly noted for being affected by crosswinds, requiring careful club selection. The greens vary in shape and size, with some being two-tiered or narrow, demanding precise distance control rather than just accuracy. The course does not feature a noted tournament history or a specific famous architect, focusing instead on accessibility for casual play. The layout is designed to be played quickly, with no practice allowed on the course itself, encouraging a focus on the round rather than extended practice sessions.