Reader’s Question: Good evening. I would like to travel from Sapporo City to Shunan City in Yamaguchi Prefecture. What transportation options do you recommend? I am interested in playing golf in Shunan City, so if you have any recommended golf
courses, please let me know. Additionally, if there are any local accommodations available, I would appreciate that information as well. Thank you.
Your Journey from Sapporo to Shunan: A Golfer’s Guide
Good evening, fellow travel enthusiasts! Today, I want to share a delightful journey that takes you from the snowy landscapes of Sapporo City all the way down to the charming Shunan City in Yamaguchi Prefecture. If you’re an avid golfer like me and are planning to tee off in Shunan, you’re in for a wonderful treat. So, let’s dive right into the nitty-gritty of transportation options and some epic golf courses you should check out!
Getting There: The Best Transportation Options
First things first, we gotta talk transport. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Sapporo to Shunan? That sounds like a trek!” And yes, it’s quite a journey, but believe me, it can be made enjoyable with the right planning. There are a couple of options for you, and I’ll break them down.
One of the most convenient ways is to take a flight from New Chitose Airport in Sapporo to Yamaguchi Ube Airport. The flight is about 1.5 hours long and can be a stress-free way to start your adventure. I remember sitting by the window, watching the patchwork of greens and blues unfold below me. It’s a beautiful sight, and before you know it, you’ll be on the ground, ready to explore!
Once you land, it’s just a short train ride to Shunan City. You can hop on a bus or grab a taxi. The local transport is pretty efficient, and I recommend downloading the Japan Travel app to help you navigate the bus schedules. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can also take a scenic train ride from Sapporo to Shunan. I did this once and it was such an experience! The journey would typically involve taking the JR Limited Express to Hakata, and then transferring to the Sanyo Shinkansen. It takes about 10-12 hours, but I promise it’s worth it. The views are spectacular, especially along the coastline. Just make sure you have some snacks ready; it’s a long ride!
Where to Golf: Shunan City’s Best Courses
Now, let’s get to the juicy part—golf! Shunan City boasts some fantastic golf courses, and if you’re in town, you’ll want to check these out. One of my top recommendations is the Shunan Country Club. Nestled in lush greenery, it offers a challenging 18-hole course that will test your skills. I remember playing there and being mesmerized by the tranquil atmosphere—the birds chirping, the sound of the wind; it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
The course is well-maintained, and the staff was incredibly friendly. I had a delightful chat with a local who shared tips on the best times to play and even sneaked in a few pointers on my swing. Always nice to have a local perspective, right?
Another gem is the Tokuyama Country Club. This course is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and has a slightly different vibe compared to Shunan Country Club. It’s got this laid-back atmosphere where you can really relax and enjoy your game. The 19th hole (aka the clubhouse) serves some of the most delicious local dishes! After a long day of golfing, I indulged in a bowl of Yamaguchi ramen, and boy, was it worth it!
Accommodation: Where to Stay
After a satisfying day on the greens, you’ll need a cozy place to rest your head. Shunan City has some excellent accommodation options that cater to various budgets. I personally loved staying at the Hotel Route-Inn Shunan. It’s clean, comfortable, and offers a complimentary breakfast that will fuel your day ahead. Plus, it’s strategically located near the train station, so you’ll have easy access to nearby attractions.
If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, consider staying at a Ryokan. I had the opportunity to stay at a lovely Ryokan called Suo-Ōshima, which is just a short drive from Shunan. The hospitality was top-notch, and I found the experience of sleeping on tatami mats and enjoying a traditional kaiseki dinner quite memorable. There’s something special about soaking in an onsen after a long day of golf; it’s pure bliss!
Local Culture and Cuisine
While you’re in Shunan, don’t forget to explore the local culture! It’s a charming city with a rich history. I stumbled upon the Shunan City Museum, which showcases the region’s history and was surprisingly engaging. They had some fascinating exhibits that made me appreciate the area even more.
And can we please talk about the food? Yamaguchi is known for its fresh seafood, so make sure you try some fugu (pufferfish) if you’re feeling brave! I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant at first, but it turned out to be delicious and surprisingly delicate. There’s also a local favorite, the Shunan sushi, which is a must-try. Just picture it: fresh fish, beautifully presented, and absolutely mouthwatering. I think I went back for seconds (and thirds!) every day!
One of the best places I found for food was a little izakaya tucked away from the main streets. The ambiance was cozy, and the locals were super welcoming. I ended up chatting with a couple of guys who played golf as well; we shared stories and even swapped tips on the best courses in the area. It’s experiences like these that truly make travel special.
Final Thoughts
As my trip came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such diverse landscapes and cultures from Sapporo to Shunan City. Whether you’re playing golf, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking in the sights, there’s something for everyone. Traveling in Japan is always an adventure, and I hope my experiences inspire you to pack your bags and hit the road!
If you’re considering this journey, take the leap! Golfing in Shunan and exploring its hidden gems is an experience you won’t forget. Happy travels, and may your putts be ever in your favor!
