Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan: Hanazono Golf has engaged internationally-recognised golf course architects Lobb + Partners (L+P) to undertake an initial strategic review of its existing golf course and overall golfing experience, exploring opportunities to further enhance its distinctive character and appeal.

Set against the spectacular natural backdrop of Hokkaido, Hanazono Golf forms part of Niseko’s acclaimed resort destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

The review will consider the course’s existing strengths, its relationship with the surrounding landscape, and opportunities to further elevate the golfing experience.

Tim Lobb, Founder and Principal of Lobb + Partners, and Alex Hay, who leads the firm’s North American operations, recently visited Hanazono to experience the course first-hand, meet with the local team and gain a deeper understanding of its setting, facilities and operational characteristics.

They were joined by Michael Pask of Taliesin Advisory, who is contributing strategic and operational expertise to the initial assessment.

The review also benefits from L+P’s international experience in established mountain resort destinations, including Whistler, Canada. With their combination of spectacular mountain scenery, international tourism and diverse recreational offerings, Whistler and Niseko share many characteristics, including the important role golf can play in enhancing the overall visitor experience during the warmer months.

The initial assessment will explore opportunities relating to course presentation, playability, guest experience and the overall positioning of Hanazono Golf within Niseko’s evolving tourism landscape. The objective is to provide an informed perspective on the course’s existing strengths and identify potential areas for further consideration.

Lobb said: “Hanazono is a remarkable property in one of Japan’s most spectacular mountain destinations. Our initial visit provided a valuable opportunity to understand the course, its natural setting and the experience it offers golfers today.

“Having worked extensively in international resort destinations, we recognise the importance of creating golf experiences that are both memorable and authentic to their surroundings. Hanazono has a wonderful natural character, and we look forward to exploring ideas that respect that identity while considering opportunities to further enhance its appeal.”

Lobb + Partners will continue its initial assessment in collaboration with the Hanazono team, with the findings intended to inform discussions regarding potential opportunities for the existing golf course.

*Lobb + Partners is a member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

**Tim Lobb will be part of a panel session at the Asian Golf Industry Federation Annual Internation Summit at Sime Darby Convention Centre in Malaysia on Wednesday. Joining him to discuss Designing for the Future: How Designers & Superintendents Shape Sustainable Golf Courses will be Henry Ng, Regional Manager, Asia, with Sustane Natural Fertilizer, and Nizam Othman, Director of Agronomy at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club.

*To register for the Summit, please click here.

**Click here to learn more about the conference and view the agenda