Tim Lobb and Alex Hay will assess 1992 design by Chohei Miyazawa and advise on potential renovations
By Richard Humphreys |
Hanazono Golf, near Mount Yōtei on the northernmost main island of Hokkaido, Japan, has appointed Lobb + Partners to undertake a review of its 18-hole golf course.
The club, which was formerly known as Niseko Tokyu Golf Club, first opened in 1992 with a course designed by Chohei Miyazawa. It has since been renamed and is now part of the Niseko Hanazono Resort. The front nine is routed through a forest while the back nine features more elevation change, a natural birch forest and a spring water creek. There are views of Mount Yōtei and the Annupuri mountain range.
Tim Lobb, founder and principal of Lobb + Partners, and Alex Hay, who leads the firm’s North America operations, recently visited the course, met with club staff and toured the resort’s facilities. They were joined by Michael Pask of Taliesin Advisory, who is contributing strategic and operational expertise to the initial assessment.
The Hanazono golf course is a 1992 design by Chohei Miyazawa, and is located near Mount Yōtei (Photo: Lobb + Partners)
Lobb and Hay say their review will consider the course’s existing strengths, its relationship with the surrounding landscape and opportunities to further elevate the golfing experience. They will also explore opportunities relating to course presentation, playability, guest experience and how they can enhance Hanazono’s character and appeal.
“Hanazono is a remarkable property in one of Japan’s most spectacular mountain destinations,” said Lobb. “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.”
The design team will assess the course and advise on potential renovations (Photo: Lobb + Partners)
Lobb + Partners will continue its assessment with the Hanazono team, with the findings intended to inform discussions regarding potential renovation work.