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Editor's Pick

Titleist GT1 Series Review: Drivers, Fairway Metals, and Utility Metals

Golfers in Japan are in for a treat as Titleist Japan unveils the GT1 driver, fairway metal, and utility metal, set to hit shelves on February 21, 2025. Designed for players seeking higher swing speeds and effortless performance, the GT1 lineup introduces innovative technologies and materials that redefine lightweight golf club engineering. Here's a closer look at the key features and benefits of each club in the new GT series.

Travel

JNTO Launches New Inbound Golf Site

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has launched a fantastic new comprehensive golf guide for tourists. This site is the official guide of the Japanese government and is a tremendous guide for golfers coming to Japan.

You can discover some great courses, routes, and activity planners and it ties in with all the other amazing experiences in Japan- which are also part of the larger site.

Please check it out here: https://www.japan.travel/en/sports/golf/

AIR Golf Media was a proud collaborator in helping to create some of the golf guides and course listings, check out the 'Golfing Japan's Golfing Golden Route' here:

https://www.japan.travel/en/sports/golf/golfing-japans-golden-route/

What's it like to golf in Japan? FAQs when it comes to Asia's best kept golfing secret

Golf in Japan is as unique as the country itself. Across the more than 6,852 islands - including the four main islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu - there are no less than 2,349 golf courses, varying from revered top-100 courses to riverside pitch and putts. The below information is aimed at newcomers to Japan and attempts to cover the basic questions on teeing it up in Asia's best-kept golfing secret!

Image: © shibuya246.com

Courses

Spa & Golf Resort Kuji Iwatecho, Ibaraki Prefecture

Less than two hours from central Tokyo, Spa & Golf Resort Kuji is nestled in the beautiful Hitachiota region of Ibaraki Prefecture. Renowned for its unique course layout and contrasting nines, I set out from Tokyo eagerly. Having seen pictures of the resort’s accommodations and expansive open spaces on the website, I mostly looked forward to getting away from the city for a few days.

As we arrived in the afternoon on a Friday, the summer sun had dipped behind the trees, casting a magical glow over the surroundings. Immediatley you notice the cool Western-style villas lining the fairways on the right and a large covered driving range to the left, as you enter the clubhouse car park you will see its adjacent the on-site hotel.

Pulling up to the entrance, the staff...

Beat The Heat with Stay and Play Golf Packages at Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono

Niseko, Hokkaido – This summer and fall, Park Hyatt Niseko invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Hokkaido with our specially curated Stay & Play Golf Package. Enjoy a cooler round of golf while taking in the dramatic backdrop of Mt. Yotei and the Annupuri mountain range. Afterward, unwind in the tranquil indoor pool and rejuvenate in the saunas and onsen hot springs, making relaxation the heart of your stay.

News

Hideki Matsuyama Eyes Repeat Win At Genesis Invitational

Hideki Matsuyama set a couple of records en route to a stunning victory at the Genesis Invitational last season but he still wasn’t fully satisfied – he had missed a customary photo with the tournament host, who happens to be Tiger Woods.

The 32-year-old Japanese star won at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles some 12 months ago following a closing 9-under 62, the lowest final round by a winner and broke a tie with South Korea’s K.J. Choi for most PGA TOUR victories by an Asian golfer following his ninth career title.

"Obviously I'm looking forward to defending my title this week and I've heard some rumour that Tiger might be here this Sunday, so hopefully I get that trophy and get that picture with him this week,” Matsuyama said in a press conference.

In order...

Hideki Matsuyama eyes glory at the WM Pheonix Open

Hideki Matsuyama has already etched his name in golf folklore for standout achievements, including being the first Asian to win the Masters Tournament in 2021 and registering 11 PGA TOUR victories – the most by a player from Asia.

At this week’s WM Phoenix Open, the 32-year-old Japanese superstar will shoot for another slice of sporting history where he hopes to become only the fifth player to win the storied tournament three times.

The World No. 5 returns to TPC Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona as one of the top contenders in the US$9.2 million showpiece dubbed the ‘People’s Open’ due to a its fans’ experience and a famous par-3 16th hole which has a daunting stadium-like arena built around it. Matsuyama won back-to-back WM Phoenix Open in 2016 and 2017, holds three...

Equipment

Scotty Cameron Unveils New Studio Style Putters 2025 Studio Style series

Scotty Cameron is introducing a major update to its blade putter lineup with the 2025 Studio Style series. This 12-model collection combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovations in materials, milling, and performance. The lineup includes both redesigned classics and entirely new models built to meet the demands of today’s golfers.

"The new Studio Style putters offer the most significant re-design of our blade line in years. While the name is a throwback, the technology, design and manufacturing methods are modern and brand new. Designed to produce remarkable feel and consistent performance, the new Studio Carbon Steel insert ensures softer sound for a confident roll on every putt. The chain-link face milling contributes to a new level of feel with roll performance...

Vokey SM10 Wedges Add Low Bounce K Grind and Oil Can Finish

Vokey Design is adding to its SM10 wedge lineup in 2025 with two new models: the 58.06K and 60.06K lob wedges. These wedges feature a low bounce combined with a wide K Grind sole, offering versatility around the greens while maintaining forgiveness, particularly in bunker play.

The .06K Grind is designed for golfers with shallower swings or those playing on firmer turf. Its development stems from feedback gathered from professional players and Master Craftsman Bob Vokey, who identified the need for a lower bounce option that still works with the wider K Grind sole. This design enables higher, softer pitches from tight lies, making it a practical choice for various conditions.

A Classic Look, Updated

The SM10 wedges will also be available in a limited-...

Instruction

Threading Shots Through Gaps In The Trees Stroke Savers

I have played golf for more than 40 years. Most days on the course I find myself shaking my head at the dreadful decisions people make, especially after hitting their tee shot into the trees. The sound of the ball pinging around amongst Japanese cedars happens far to often and even has begun to creep into my dreams. You cannot imagine my frustration as I watch hard-working students not improve their scores because they try to weave their ball through a gap in the trees that even Phil Mickelson wouldn't attempt. Inevitably they end up with scorecard wrecking 9 and I realise their recent lobotomy was a complete success.

Golf courses in Japan are mostly parkland-style courses whose fairways are heavily tree-lined. It is quite a rare occurrence to play links golf here. Even the...

How to prepare mentally for Matchplay 4 keys to remember

Golf is a sport that requires both physical and mental preparation in order to perform at your best. While many golfers focus on the physical aspects of the game, such as swing mechanics and course management, it is equally important to focus on the mental aspects of matchplay. Get yourself ready for that monthly medal and learn how to mentally prepare for matchplay in order to give yourself the best chance of success.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that matchplay is different from strokeplay. In stroke play, the goal is to shoot the lowest score possible over the course of a round. In matchplay, the goal is to beat your opponent. This shift in mindset can be difficult for some golfers to adjust to, but it is essential to understand that matchplay is a...

Lifestyle

10 THINGS YOU (PROBABLY) DID NOT KNOW ABOUT JACK NICKLAUS

The name Jack Nicklaus needs a very little introduction in the world of golf. He holds the most major victories in history with 18 titles and has won 73 times on the PGA TOUR. The 84-year-old is also known as the Golden Bear and has carved his legacy by building and designing numerous golf courses around the world.

He also supports philanthropic and charitable efforts in the U.S., including Play Yellow which encourages fans to wear yellow on Sunday to celebrate his longtime connection with the colour and a Children's Miracle Network Hospitals campaign with the goal to raise funds to help the 10 million kids treated at local children's hospitals each year.

While his name is synonymous with the game, below are 10 things that you probably didn't know about Nicklaus as he...

Italian Fine Jewelry Brand "FOPE" Opens First Flagship Store in Tokyo's Ginza Distric

Italian fine jewelry brand "FOPE" has opened its first flagship store in Japan, "FOPE GINZA," marking a significant milestone for the brand. Nestled amidst the opulence of Ginza, where luxury brands reign supreme, FOPE GINZA will captivate discerning shoppers with its understated elegance, becoming the brand's third flagship store in the world, following locations in Piazza San Marco in Venice and Old Bond Street in London.

Amidst the towering buildings that define the vibrant cityscape of Ginza, FOPE GINZA stands out with its new elegant two-story white building, housing FOPE's finest creations and representing its inaugural flagship presence in Japan.

More on Air

What happens if your ball strikes another players ball? Golfing Rules, Seriously!

On the course this past weekend, I putt from just off the green and my ball struck my playing partners ball, knocking it closer to the hole.

After a quick giggle, we began to discuss the ruling, 'I'll play from there and its a one-shot penalty for you' my friend said. 'I was off the green' I said, 'Doesn't matter' he said. Right, I said. 'Hang on, and I'll consult the rule book'.

Luckily, I had The R&A's Rules of Golf on my phone (Well worth a download and it's FREE)

Without quoting the book verbatim, there are basically three scenarios which you should be mindful of:

On the Fairway (updated June 14th, 2023) If your ball strikes a fellow player's ball on the fairway by accident, The 9.6 rule comes into affect, meaning If my ball...

Taylormade Golf Japan Ginza Store English- friendly Flagship store launches in Ginza

Taylormade Golf Japan opens the doors to its latest store in the Ginza area of the capital today. Ginza is a mecca for tourists and Tokyoites alike, known for its world-class shopping, restaurants, and buzzing nightlife, it will now offer the best in golf technology and style with the opening of the new Taylormade flagship store.

Located on the very exclusive Sotobori street just a few minutes walk from Ginza station, the Taylormade GINZA aims to have a full service for its its international visitors, with trilingual staff (English, Japanese, Chinese) and offering a free testing and assessment service, giving advice on clubs and their set-up as well as offering a tax-free shopping for overseas visitors (that's 10% off!).