Rainy Season Golf in Japan: Complete Tsuyu Guide for Foreigners

Introduction

Japan’s rainy season, known as tsuyu (梅雨), typically runs from mid-June through early July. While many golfers might think this is the worst time to visit courses, smart golfers know it’s actually a golden opportunity. This guide reveals how to play golf successfully during tsuyu and take advantage of fewer crowds.

When is Tsuyu? Planning Your Golf Trip

Typical Dates:

• Early season (warm regions): Mid-May to late June
• Peak season: Late June to mid-July
• Late season (northern areas): Early July to early August

Pro Tip: Book courses for early mornings (7-8 AM) when rain is lightest. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Best Courses That Stay Open in Rainy Season

Indoor Golf Centers (Most Reliable)

• GolfZON (Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama) — Full 18-hole simulation, climate controlled
• Golfmarkt (Multiple Locations) — Budget-friendly, realistic ball physics
• Bridgestone Golf Plaza — Premium simulators with pro coaching available

Open-Air Courses (Best Weather Days)

1. Courses at Higher Elevations — Rain runs off faster, better drainage

• Fuji International Golf Club (Shizuoka)
• Yomiuri Country Club (Fuji area)

2. Seaside Courses — Wind dries fairways naturally

• Kawana Hotel Golf Club (Izu Peninsula)
• Shizuoka Country Club

Discount Courses (June Specials)

• Many courses offer 20-30% off greens fees during rainy season
• Ask about “tsuyu discount” (梅雨割引) when calling ahead

What to Pack: Essential Gear for Rainy Golf

Clothing (Waterproof is Key)

• Waterproof jacket — Gore-Tex preferred (not regular rain jacket)
• Waterproof pants — Most Japanese golfers wear these
• Moisture-wicking base layer — Avoid cotton
• Golf shoes with cleats — Muddy fairways need grip
• Extra socks (2-3 pairs) — Waterproof bag recommended

Equipment

• Waterproof golf towel — Absorbs quickly
• Extra golf glove (2-3 gloves minimum)
• Waterproof bag for electronics — Protect phone, scorecard
• Umbrella (provided at most courses, but bring your own)
• Wet gear bag — For soaked clothes at end of round

Japanese Etiquette During Rain

• Waterproof clothing is REQUIRED — Rain gear is mandatory, not optional
• No jeans or shorts — Japanese courses are strict
• Spike shoes only — Soft spikes acceptable
• Towel usage — Dry clubs after every shot (other players expect this)

How to Play Better in Rain

Mental Game

1. Expect scoring to be 5-10 strokes higher — It’s OK and normal

2. Focus on ball position — Wet grass affects ball reaction

3. Slow down your swing — Maintain tempo despite weather

4. Play par instead of birdie — Adjust expectations

Technical Tips

1. Club selection — Wet grass grabs the club, so go 1-2 clubs longer

2. Ball position — Move ball back in stance (closer to right foot) for better contact

3. Grip pressure — Don’t squeeze harder; maintain normal grip

4. Short game — Pitching is harder; use bump-and-run instead of flop shots

5. Bunkers — Wet sand is firmer; swing easier

Local Rules & Etiquette You Should Know

Japanese Courses During Tsuyu

• Cancellations: If course calls to cancel (rain forecast > 30mm), refund is usually given
• Play continues: Unless lightning or flooding; Japanese courses rarely cancel
• Cart rules: Electric carts stay on paths (no driving on wet fairways)
• Pace of play: Rainy rounds take 4.5-5 hours (30-45 min slower); it’s expected

Respect for Course Condition

• Fix ball marks immediately — Extra important on wet greens
• Don’t walk across greens — Use cart paths
• Replace divots — Course staff appreciates this in rain
• Rinse clubs at end — Most courses have wash stations; use them

Budget Tips: Save Money During Tsuyu

Cost Breakdown (June vs. Summer):

• June greens fee: ¥5,000-8,000 (normally ¥7,000-12,000)
• Caddy: Same price
• Rental clubs: Same price
• Lunch: Same price (~¥1,500)
• Total savings per round: ¥2,000-4,000 (about 20-30% off)

Money-Saving Tips:

1. Play on weekdays (Mon-Fri) — Even cheaper

2. Request “early bird” tee times — 20% discount common

3. Skip lunch at the course; bring convenience store snacks

4. Join golf membership clubs — Access to private courses at discount

Health & Safety During Rainy Season

Stay Healthy

• Hypothermia risk: Bring warm layers even though it’s June
• Fungal infections: Dry feet immediately after round
• Dehydration: Drink water even in cool weather
• Sun exposure: UV rays penetrate clouds; wear sunscreen

When NOT to Play

• ⚠️ Lightning visible on course → Seek shelter immediately
• ⚠️ Course officials announce “play suspended”
• ⚠️ Flooding on fairways or cart paths
• ⚠️ Wind speed > 30 km/h (rare but dangerous in Japan)

Local Golf Culture: What Japanese Golfers Do in Tsuyu

• Morning rounds preferred — Finish before afternoon rain
• Indoor driving ranges busy — Practice time instead of course play
• Pro shop sales spike — New waterproof gear arrivals
• Tournaments postponed — Most club tournaments reschedule
• Family events: Rainy season = time for golf lessons, short courses

FAQ: Rainy Season Golf in Japan

Q: Is June a bad time to visit Japan for golf?

A: No! It’s actually ideal for budget travelers. Fewer foreigners, cheaper rates, and better availability.

Q: Can I cancel my reservation if it rains?

A: Check the course’s cancellation policy. Most allow cancellation if rainfall > 30mm.

Q: Do Japanese golfers really play in the rain?

A: Yes, constantly. Rain doesn’t stop play unless lightning or flooding occurs.

Q: Will my golf clubs rust in humidity?

A: Modern clubs are corrosion-resistant. Dry them at home; most courses provide wash stations.

Q: Is tsuyu the same as monsoon season?

A: Similar but different. Tsuyu is Japan’s rainy season (predictable, June-July). Monsoon is Southeast Asia’s weather pattern.

Next Steps: Book Your Rainy Season Golf Adventure

1. Check weather forecast → Aim for “light rain” days, avoid thunderstorm forecasts

2. Call course directly → Confirm weather policies and ask for tsuyu discounts

3. Book early morning tee times → 7-8 AM slots

4. Pack waterproof gear → See packing list above

5. Set realistic score expectations → Focus on experience, not scorecard

Related Golf Guides by Region

• 📍 [Golf in Kanto: Tokyo and the Surrounding Regions](/golf-in-kanto/)
• 📍 [Golf in Kansai: Historic Courses](/golf-in-kansai/)
• 📍 [Golf in Hokkaido: Japan’s Northern Paradise](/golf-in-hokkaido/)

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Published: June 2026

Last Updated: June 19, 2026

Author: Fly to Japan Golf Guide

Keywords: rainy season golf, tsuyu golf, June golf Japan, golf in rain, Japanese golf etiquette