Japan's golf courses swing big for South Korean guests

Travel & LeisureAim to offset dwindling local demand with players from neighborSouth Korean golfers arrive at Ibaraki Airport, northeast of Tokyo, on June 29. Local courses are betting on such visitors to drive up business. (All photos by Yuki Kohara)MAYUKO KURIHARAJuly 31, 2026 10:48 JSTTOKYO -- Japan's golf courses are aiming to score big with South Korean players, hoping that affluent visitors from their neighbor will revive an industry hit by dwindling local interest as young people and other groups pursue more-affordable hobbies beyond the fairway.