If you are after a date that involves doing something, rather than dinner or a film, simulation golf is worth considering.
With no golf experience at all, you can still teach each other and celebrate a good shot together. Here is why it gives you both the conversation and the activity.
The conversation looks after itself
Unlike a date spent talking face to face, the game gives you something to talk about. "Which club next?" "That one was good" — there is no need to hunt for a subject.
Because you take turns, one of you can cheer or take photos while the other plays. Even on a first date, the silences stop mattering.
Two beginners improve together
Between two beginners, even the first air shot becomes part of the story. Choose games about getting close to a target, or a short hole, rather than distance, and differences in sporting ability barely show.
If one of you has played, keep it to the grip and the safety rather than correcting their form in detail. Not spending too much of the evening teaching is the trick to enjoying the date.
Neither the weather nor the season matters
It is indoors, so you can make plans without worrying about rain, summer heat or winter cold. Book ahead and there is no need to rework the day around the forecast.
A venue open in the evening can be used after work or after dinner, so it does not take the whole day and fits into an ordinary date.
Little to worry about in clothes or kit
At a venue with rental equipment, you can take part without owning a single club. Borrowed shoes mean you can arrive in work shoes or in whatever you chose for the evening and simply change.
Clothes that let your shoulders and hips turn are best. If you are calling in partway through other plans, make sure a jacket or jewellery can come off for a while.
Booths and plans that suit a date
For a lively, easy-going evening, an open booth; to settle in together, a semi-private booth or a private room. If drinks are part of it, check how the table and seats are arranged.
For a first visit, starting from a 60-minute plan leaves you fresh enough to combine it with a meal or a walk. For an anniversary, a private room or a plan with premium drinks is worth the step up.
An evening golf date in Gion, Kyoto
At Gion Country Club, free rental means you can enjoy simulation golf empty-handed. Between shots, take your drinks and your conversation to the counter or the sofa.
We are three minutes' walk from Gion-Shijo Station, easy to reach after dinner. From the 60-minute Kyoto Night Golf Experience to a fully private VIP plan, choose according to how long you have and the mood you want.
Frequently asked questions
Can we enjoy it if neither of us has played golf?
Choose a beginner-friendly game such as a short hole or hitting targets and it is easy to enjoy together.
How long is a good length for a date?
Starting from around 60 minutes on a first visit leaves room to combine it with dinner or other plans.
Can we play in the clothes we chose for the date?
Yes, as long as your shoulders and hips can move. If your shoes restrict you, use the rental shoes.
