The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service has added the Taiheiyo Club Gotemba Course to its growing portfolio of global venues, further strengthening its presence in Japan and reinforcing its commitment to high performance standards and environmental sustainability.
The appointment builds on The R&A’s existing collaboration with Taiheiyo Club, with the Sustainable Agronomy team currently working with both the Konan Course and Minori Course, providing expert agronomic guidance to support course performance, sustainability and long-term resilience.
Widely regarded as the flagship course of Taiheiyo Club, Gotemba Course represents one of Japan’s most prestigious and internationally recognised golf venues. Its inclusion in The R&A Sustainable Agronomy venue programme highlights a shared commitment to delivering world-class playing conditions while embracing responsible and sustainable course management practices.
The 7,246-yard, par-72 Gotemba Course, which first opened in 1977, has a strong tournament pedigree, having hosted the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in 2024, and serving as the long-standing host venue of the Mitsui Sumitomo Visa Taiheiyo Masters, one of the most prominent events on the Japan Golf Tour, staged annually at the course.
Through this partnership, The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service will focus on elevating performance standards for championship-level play, supporting environmental sustainability and responsible resource management, providing expert agronomic advice aligned with international best practice.
Chris Gray, Head of Sustainable Golf & Agronomy Asia-Pacific, said, “Taiheiyo Club Gotemba Course is an outstanding venue with a proud championship heritage. We look forward to working closely with the club’s team to support excellence in course conditioning while advancing sustainable agronomic practices.”
Shun Han, President of Taiheiyo Club, added, “Taiheiyo Club is defined by excellence, Japanese hospitality and uncompromising quality, but equally by community and collaboration. We are delighted to partner with The R&A Sustainable Golf & Agronomy team and look forward to further strengthening our reputation on the global stage.”
Joe Gaughwin, Ambassador of Foreign Relations for Taiheiyo Club, commented, “I have played some of the finest golf courses around the world, and Taiheiyo Club ranks among the very best. From green quality and natural beauty to service, English-speaking caddies and accessibility, every aspect meets the highest international standards. We have made it easier than ever for golfers to experience the very best of Japanese golf.”