From fairways to UNESCO: 4 Asian golf courses that deliver experiences beyond the game

Not only outstanding in design, Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An also left a deep impression when it was honoured as “Best Resort Golf Course in Asia-Pacific” at the Asian Golf Awards 2019.

This recognition affirms the calibre of service and the quality of experience the course delivers. Its natural surroundings offer a striking contrast, the deep green of the coastal casuarina trees stands out against the shifting hues of inland foliage, adding to the unique ecological character of the area. The wider resort complex, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An, features a private beach stretching 1,300 metres, offering a tranquil space immersed in unspoiled nature. Just minutes away, guests can step back in time amidst the ancient charm of Hoi An, or wander through a harbourside quarter where European architectural influences, ranging from Spanish Gothic to Dutch romanticism, line the picturesque canal. Vinpearl Golf Nam Hoi An is where the essence of golf meets cultural richness and leisurely indulgence, an ideal choice for those in pursuit of sport, nature and a meaningful connection to local heritage.

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Located within the open expanse of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a site recognised by UNESCO as both a cultural and natural world heritage, Trang An Golf & Resort is a dream destination for golf enthusiasts with a keen interest in Vietnamese history and culture. More than just a golf course, it represents a seamless blend of sport, leisure and a journey into the spirit of the ancient capital of Ninh Binh. The resort also enjoys proximity to renowned landmarks such as Bai Dinh Pagoda, Tam Chuc tourist area and a host of other cultural treasures.

The golf offering at Trang An has been crafted to international standards, featuring two 18-hole courses with distinct identities and levels of challenge to suit a range of players. The Champion Course spans more than 7,200 yards and is shaped by dynamic topography, including two expansive lakes, 98 sand traps and numerous streams, designed to deliver a technically engaging experience for seasoned players. Meanwhile, the Pine Course, a par-3 layout also consisting of 18 holes, lies nestled within a primeval pine forest. It is fitted with a modern lighting system, allowing play to continue well into the evening. One of its most memorable features is the 16th hole, a par 3 with a steep gradient, a sweeping view across the fairway, and a green embraced by a wide lake and intricately placed sand traps. This hole demands not just skill but strategy, and stands as a true test for any golfer aiming to master the course.

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Not only outstanding for its pristine landscape, Trang An Golf & Resort also impresses with its five-star service and a sustainable development ethos rooted in nature.

Since its inception, the resort has upheld its commitment to cultivating a green, clean and refined environment, while steadily expanding its offering of experiences from golf and meditation to heritage tours. Set against the enchanting scenery of Ninh Binh, Trang An Golf & Resort is not just a place to perfect your swing amid dramatic landscapes, but also a serene and poetic destination to unwind.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, Taiheiyo Club Gotemba is a jewel in the crown of the Taiheiyo Club’s esteemed collection of golf courses, celebrated for both its masterful layout and spectacular natural surroundings. Ranked the number one golf course by Par Golf, Japan’s leading golf publication, and placed fifth on Golf Digest’s list of the nation’s best, Gotemba has earned its place on the global golf stage. It has hosted numerous international tournaments, a testament to its world-class credentials. With sweeping views of Mount Fuji, the course is a destination for those seeking a deeper connection with one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes.

In 2018, Gotemba underwent a striking transformation, unveiled at the Taiheiyo Masters. While the course was extended by a modest 81 yards, every one of its 62 bunkers was reshaped to better complement the terrain and raise the level of challenge. Several holes were repositioned, and new fairway bunkers were introduced, requiring players to approach their tee shots with greater precision. Among the most striking changes was the removal of over 700 trees, dramatically opening up the view towards Mount Fuji. The approach to the fifth hole, in particular, offers an unforgettable moment where the grandeur of the mountain comes fully into view, commanding attention and awe. For those travelling through Japan, a stop at Taiheiyo Club Gotemba offers not only a world-class golf experience but also the chance to witness Mount Fuji from a truly extraordinary vantage point.

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The story of the Hong Kong Golf Club at Fanling is a vivid expression of the harmony between sport, nature and heritage. Unlike many courses in UNESCO-designated regions, Fanling itself received the “Award of Distinction” at the 2023 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage Conservation Awards. This accolade not only acknowledges the club’s dedication to preserving its cultural landscape, but also signifies a step forward in deepening the relationship between people, the environment and history at China’s oldest golf course. The judging panel commended Fanling’s interdisciplinary approach, noting its strong socio-ecological commitment as a model for sustainable heritage conservation throughout the region.

Featuring three 18-hole courses with distinct identities—the Old Course, New Course and Eden Course—Fanling offers more than a test of skill. It provides an immersive experience in a cool, green setting shaped by time. The Old Course, established in 1911, is the oldest championship golf course in Asia. Its traditional layout, tree-lined fairways and small greens call for accuracy over power. The New Course, which opened in 1931 and spans 6,520 yards, frequently hosts the Hong Kong Men’s and Women’s Amateur Championships and forms part of the competitive layout for both the Hong Kong Open and LIV Golf Hong Kong. The Eden Course, which joined the complex in 1970, further enriches Fanling’s offerings with added variety and technical sophistication. Set against a backdrop of forest greenery and more than a century of history, Fanling has long drawn both local and international elites—a place where top golfers can enjoy a moment of calm and a truly elevated sporting experience.

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