Bars in Kyoto where you can play golf range from those built around a serious round to those where the fun is in the game.
It matters to choose on more than the golf: the food and drink, the seating, and how comfortable it is for whoever comes with you.
A golf bar is not a practice facility
A golf bar is a space for conversation and drinks alongside the play. It tends to have more seating and a fuller bar list than a practice venue.
Decide whether improving your swing or an evening with friends comes first, and what you need becomes much clearer.
Check the simulator and the rentals
Look at the courses you can play, what is measured, and the game modes. For a beginner, a venue where staff explain the controls is the reassuring one.
If you are coming empty-handed, check whether clubs, gloves and shoes are available, what they cost, and the sizes.
Choose seats where your companions are comfortable
Not everyone will play. Choose somewhere with sofas and tables, where the time spent not swinging still means conversation and a drink.
A private room for business entertaining or a date, an open booth for a relaxed after-party: match it to the occasion.
- The number of seats
- Whether there is a private room
- The drinks list
- Anything besides golf
Look at the pricing and the booking terms
Pricing comes by the hour, by the booth, or as a per-person set. Compare on the total, food, drink and service charge included.
Checking how changes of numbers and late arrivals are handled, the extension rate and the cancellation deadline before booking is worth the minute it takes.
A late-night bar in Gion where you can play golf
Gion Country Club is a golf bar near Gion-Shijo Station, with simulation golf and a bar counter.
Rentals are free, and bar-only visits are welcome. From a drink after dinner to a group in a private room, the choice is yours.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use a golf bar in Kyoto without booking?
Sometimes, if there is space, but if you have a particular booth in mind, booking is advisable.
Can you play a proper round at a golf bar?
On a simulator with a round mode, yes, on reproductions of courses from around the world.
Can I come just for the bar?
That varies by venue. Check the terms for bar-only use in advance.
