AWGN’s Hosted Japan Experiences 2026
Autumn Golf & Culture in Tochigi & Tokyo
25th Oct - 1st Nov 2026
“Dee was always organised and attentive to our group. She was an amazing host. Very personable, thoughtful and sociable. I loved all the cultural experiences. I enjoy meeting new people and learning about their customs and traditions. The tour gave us a taste of this and for me a desire to come back and learn more”
“The welcome & farewell dinners were exceptional - thank you. For the rest we tried the local restaurants nearby to the hotel, which was wonderfully positioned”
“Overall, the Japan Golf Tour was a wonderful experience… Beautifully organised with great company, stunning golf courses, and memorable moments throughout. The itinerary gave us a fantastic taste of Japan’s golfing culture and scenic landscapes.”
“Chiyoda and Rygusaki were probably the most impressive, definitely a fabulous first and last course. I also liked walking the course at Joyo for something different. All fantastic in their own way. Some people had mentioned that they would have liked to play 18 holes on the first day. As a beginner I believe this would have been quite intimidating to see on the itinerary and I felt more comfortable knowing the first day was only 9 holes. Having said that, I loved it so much I totally could have done 18!””
“Dee was a fabulous host. She went above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly. She was always professional and made sure everyone knew what was happening at all times. She was also willing to help with translating and was amazing at dealing with so many different personalities! I couldn’t have asked for a better host.””
“loved the pear picking experience. I also really enjoyed the hand selected restaurants we visited!”
Registration Now Open – Join the Journey
2026 Tokyo & Tochigi Itinerary
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Welcome to Japan – A Journey Begins
Touch down at Tokyo Haneda Airport at 5:30 AM, where your Japanese adventure begins. After a smooth transfer to central Tokyo, enjoy some free time in the historic Asakusa district — home to the iconic Senso-ji Temple and charming streets filled with old-world charm.
At 10:00 AM, board the stunning SPACIA X Limited Express — a beautifully designed train that blends modern comfort with traditional Edo elegance. As you glide toward Nikko, enjoy a delicious bento-style lunch onboard, featuring fresh local flavours with views of the awakening countryside.
Arrive in Tochigi and step into a living history book at Nikko Edo Wonderland (12:30 PM). Wander cobbled streets, watch thrilling samurai performances, and even dress in period costumes for unforgettable photos.
Later, find your calm in the whispering Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering green stalks in serene stillness.
By late afternoon, check in to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande, your peaceful retreat for the next few nights.
Celebrate the start of your journey with a welcome dinner (7:00 PM, included) — a delicious taste of Japanese hospitality, laughter, and the first of many special moments with your fellow travellers.
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Golf in the Heart of Nature – Nikko Country Club
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included), fueling up for a truly special day on the greens.
At 8:00 AM, we depart for the scenic Nikko Country Club, nestled amid forested hills and fresh mountain air. As you arrive, soak in the peaceful surroundings — a perfect setting for a mindful, joyful round.
Your 18-hole game begins at 9:40 AM, played in true Japanese style with a dedicated caddie and walking format — a chance to slow down, connect with the course, and enjoy every shot at a natural pace. The layout blends tradition and challenge, with tree-lined fairways, subtle slopes, and the quiet beauty of autumn unfolding around you.
After your round, take time to reflect on your game and the serene landscape before returning to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande by 5:30 PM.
Evening is yours to relax, unwind, or chat with your group — celebrating the first of many unforgettable golf moments on tour.
Includes: Breakfast • On-course golf fees • Caddie service
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Refined Play at Eastwood Country Club
Rise and shine with another delicious breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included) as we prepare for a day of smooth swings and scenic holes at the beautifully maintained Eastwood Country Club.
We depart at 8:00 AM, arriving in time to settle in before your 18-hole round begins at 9:30 AM. This is your first chance to enjoy a cart — perfect for conserving energy and soaking in the views — paired with a dedicated caddie who’ll help you navigate the course with ease.
Eastwood blends modern design with natural charm, offering rolling fairways, well-placed bunkers, and a pace that lets you truly enjoy your game. Whether you're chasing a personal best or just playing for joy, the relaxed atmosphere and crisp autumn air make every hole a pleasure.
After your round, take a quiet moment to reflect (or celebrate!) before we head back to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande by 5:30 PM.
Evening is yours to unwind — stretch out, share stories with your group, or simply enjoy the calm of your surroundings.
Includes: Breakfast • On-course golf fees • Cart & caddie service
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A Taste of Tochigi
After a refreshing breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included), we set off at 9:00 AM on a full-day journey into the heart of Tochigi’s heritage and harvest.
First, we visit the breathtaking Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site and masterpiece of 17th-century craftsmanship. Wander through ornate gates, golden halls, and sacred courtyards richly carved with symbols of power, peace, and nature. This isn’t just a shrine — it’s a living story of Japan’s history, spirituality, and artistry.
Later, trade elegance for earthiness at a local fruit farm, where you’ll pick your own seasonal fruit — likely crisp autumn apples or juicy pears, a delicious taste of Tochigi’s fertile land. It’s a simple, joyful experience that connects you to the rhythm of the region and its generous seasons.
After a day filled with wonder and warmth, we return to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande by 5:00 PM, where you can relax and reflect on all you’ve seen and tasted.
It’s a day of depth and delight — where culture and countryside come together in perfect harmony.
Includes: Breakfast • All entry fees • Fruit picking experience
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Grace & Flow at Seven Hundred Club
Start with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included) as we prepare for another beautiful day on the fairways.
At 8:00 AM, we head to the elegant Seven Hundred Club, a course known for its graceful design, peaceful setting, and thoughtful layout. Arrive with time to stretch and settle in before your 18-hole round begins at 9:30 AM, played with a caddie and cart — the perfect combo of support and ease.
This course invites you to find your flow. With well-manicured greens, gentle slopes, and a layout that balances challenge and enjoyment, it’s a day where every swing feels intentional — and every hole offers a moment to breathe in the autumn beauty around you.
Whether you're refining your game or simply playing for joy, it’s a round that stays with you.
We return to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande by 5:30 PM, ready to unwind and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Includes: Breakfast • On-course golf fees • Cart & caddie service
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A Round to Remember at Prestige Country Club
After a refreshing breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included), we set off at 8:00 AM for the beautifully appointed Prestige Country Club, a course that lives up to its name with elegant design, impeccable conditioning, and a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.
Your 18-hole round begins at 9:40 AM, played with a caddie and cart — the perfect balance of comfort and connection as you navigate the course at a relaxed, enjoyable pace. The layout offers a thoughtful mix of challenges and rewards, with well-placed bunkers, smooth greens, and scenic views that reflect the quiet beauty of Tochigi in autumn.
This is more than a game — it’s a moment to celebrate your swing, your progress, and the camaraderie you’ve built with your fellow travellers.
We return to the Tobu Utsunomiya Hotel Grande by 5:30 PM, giving you time to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy a quiet evening before our grand finale in Tokyo.
Includes: Breakfast • On-course golf fees • Cart & caddie service
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Final Fairway in Tochigi – Tobu-Fujigaoka Country Club
Start with a hearty breakfast at the hotel (6:30 AM, included), then check out by 7:30 AM as we head to Tobu-Fujigaoka Country Club for our final round in Tochigi.
Your 18-hole game begins with a morning tee time, played with a cart (no caddie) — a chance to enjoy a more independent, relaxed round using your own rhythm and the course’s excellent yardage guides. The layout is both scenic and engaging, with tree-lined fairways, gentle elevation changes, and well-designed greens that reward thoughtful play.
It’s a fitting farewell to Tochigi’s golfing charm — a round to celebrate how far you’ve come, both on the course and on this journey.
After your game, we make our way to Tokyo, checking in to our hotel by 6:00 PM.
Wind down with a delicious welcome-to-Tokyo dinner (7:00 PM, included) — a chance to reflect, reconnect, and get excited for the cultural wonders ahead.
Includes: Breakfast • On-course golf fees • Cart rental
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Serenity & Style – Tokyo’s Timeless Heart
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel from 7:00 AM (included) before checking out — the quiet start to a day of elegance and reflection.
At 10:00 AM, we gather for a truly special experience: a traditional Japanese tea ceremony (Sadou). Step into a tranquil space, where every movement — from the whisking of matcha to the passing of the bowl — is a gesture of mindfulness and connection. It’s a moment to slow down, breathe, and honour the beauty of the present.
Next, savour a delicious lunch in Tokyo (12:00–1:00 PM, included) — a chance to reflect on the journey so far over shared flavours and stories.
In the afternoon, visit the serene Nezu Museum (2:00–3:00 PM), a hidden gem nestled in a lush Japanese garden. Wander through winding paths, stone lanterns, and quiet groves, then step inside to view exquisite pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art. It’s a peaceful, poetic finale — where culture, nature, and stillness come together.
Admission to all sites is included, so you can simply soak it all in.
As the tour comes to a close, take a quiet moment to carry it all with you — the swings, the smiles, the sisterhood, and the soul of Japan.
Includes: Breakfast • Lunch • All sightseeing admission fees
Your Golf and Cultural Adventure Awaits!
Embark on an extraordinary golf holiday with our golf and cultural package, thoughtfully designed to provide an unforgettable experience. Your journey includes comfortable accommodation, hassle-free private transfers, and all necessary green fees for your golf rounds. Delight in carefully curated meals each day, showcasing the very best of local cuisine.
Immerse yourself in the culture of your destination with complimentary admissions to must-see attractions. This trip seamlessly blends the excitement of golfing with the joy of exploration, promising cherished memories for all. Don't miss out on this perfect getaway!
Our Travel Partner: CGE Golf
We’re proud to partner with CGE Golf, a leader in curated golf travel experiences, to bring this journey to life with effortless ease. With over 20 years of expertise, their team — led by passionate golfer and director Steven Baron — knows exactly what makes a golf trip unforgettable: smooth logistics, insider access, and attention to every detail.
From securing your tee times at Tochigi’s finest clubs to handling accommodation, transfers, and itinerary coordination, CGE Golf ensures everything runs seamlessly — so you can focus on what matters most: your swing, your connection, and the joy of being there.
With CGE Golf managing the details, you can simply show up, play well, and soak in every moment — from first tee to final toast.
*Please note that return airfares to Japan, alcohol and some meals are not included in this package. However, our dedicated team is ready to assist you in making travel arrangements through our trusted travel agent upon request.
Register for 2026
Twin Share Room AUD $6,750.00
Single Supplement add AUD $850.00
All payments processed via our Travel Partner CGE Golf
Deposit and Payment
Deposit: $1,000 to secure your spot
Balance due: 120 days before departure
Payments made via secure bank transfer (details provided upon registration)
Comprehensive travel insurance is required
AWGN Japan Experiences: Where Golf Meets the Soul of Japan
Japan is a golfer’s dream — a land where precision meets peace, and every course tells a story. Through our hosted journeys, AWGN invites you to explore two unforgettable regions: the cultural heartland of Tochigi & Tokyo, and the serene beauty of Ibaraki — each offering world-class golf, deep connection, and the quiet magic of Japanese tradition.
In Tochigi, play amid mountain air and autumn brilliance at premier clubs like Nikko Country Club, Eastwood, and Seven Hundred Club, where caddies guide your swing and forested fairways cradle every shot. Between rounds, step into living history at Toshogu Shrine, wander the bamboo forest, and experience a traditional tea ceremony — a journey as rich in culture as it is in golf.
In Ibaraki, discover a quieter side of Japan — one of coastal charm and timeless elegance. Tee off at legendary courses like Miho Golf Club, ranked among Japan’s finest, and Chiyoda Country Club, where rolling hills meet meticulous design. Then, explore beyond the fairway: visit the towering Ushiku Daibutsu, stroll through the vibrant blooms of Oarai Flower Park, and feel the rhythm of coastal life unfold.
This is more than a golf tour. It’s a chance to slow down, connect deeply, and play with purpose — surrounded by women who love the game as much as you do.
Registrations are now open for 2026.
Come for the golf. Stay for the memories.
*Please note that return airfares to Japan, alcohol and some meals are not included in this package. Comprehensive travel insurance is required.
However, our dedicated team is ready to assist you in making travel arrangements through our trusted travel agent upon request.
A Taste of Tochigi & Tokyo: Where Tradition Meets the Table
Tochigi and Tokyo offer a culinary journey as rich and refined as the landscapes you’ll explore — a world where every meal is a moment of connection, crafted with care and steeped in tradition.
In Tochigi, the flavours are rooted in the land: crisp autumn apples picked fresh from the orchard, creamy yuba (tofu skin) from Nikko, and tender ryūrinji udon, hand-pulled and served in warming broth. You’ll savour seasonal bento boxes on scenic train rides, enjoy home-style washoku meals, and toast with locally brewed saké — each bite a quiet celebration of harvest and heritage.
Then, in Tokyo, the energy shifts — a city where culinary artistry reaches new heights. From delicate matcha in a centuries-old tea house to expertly grilled yakitori in a hidden alleyway, every dish tells a story. You’ll taste the precision of kaiseki influences, the comfort of steaming ramen, and the freshness of market-driven plates — all served with omotenashi, the heartfelt Japanese spirit of hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.
And of course, no moment is complete without tea. You’ll experience a traditional Sadou (tea ceremony) — not just a drink, but a meditation in grace, where every gesture honours presence, patience, and togetherness.
This is more than dining. It’s a shared rhythm — of flavours, friendship, and the joy of slowing down to truly taste life.
Meet your host - Dee Mills
Golf, friendship, and a deep love for Japan — that’s where it all began for Dee Mills, Japan’s Ambassador at the Australian Women’s Golf Network and your host for this unforgettable journey.
Having travelled to Japan many times, Dee knows the quiet magic of its courses, the warmth of its people, and the joy of discovering hidden gems beyond the fairway. This tour isn’t just about golf — it’s about connection. And with her easygoing spirit, thoughtful guidance, and insider knowledge, she’ll make you feel right at home from the first tee shot to the final toast.
Between rounds at Nikko Country Club, Eastwood Country Club, Seven Hundred Club, and Tobu-Fujigaoka Country Club, you’ll step into the beauty of Tochigi — exploring the sacred halls of Toshogu Shrine, wandering through the whispering bamboo forest, and picking fresh fruit at a local orchard. And of course, no journey is complete without a traditional tea ceremony in Tokyo, where every gesture invites you to slow down and savour the moment — all with Dee by your side, sharing stories, laughter, and those unforgettable “pinch me” pauses that make travel so special.
A Sydney local and mum of two, Dee’s role as an Ambassador for AWGN brings women together through the game they love. And this tour? It’s one of her most heartfelt adventures yet.
Come play, explore, and connect — not just with Japan, but with a community that feels like home.
Important Information
When traveling overseas, several important hazards must be carefully considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for yourself and any companions. It's essential to be fully aware of the varying fitness requirements for playing golf, which can differ significantly by course and region; maintaining good physical condition will undoubtedly enhance your overall experience on the golf course. In Japan, understanding sightseeing formalities is crucial to a smooth experience, as certain popular locations may have specific dress codes, behavior expectations, or even reservation requirements that need to be followed. Additionally, food tolerances should be have careful consideration, as traditional Japanese cuisine often incorporates ingredients that may not align with specific dietary restrictions; therefore, it's wise to communicate any allergies or personal preferences clearly and effectively to avoid any health issues. Lastly, comprehensive travel insurance is required to cover unexpected events, from medical emergencies to trip cancellations and lost luggage. Having this protection in place will provide invaluable peace of mind while navigating and exploring Japan.
More frequently updated information about traveling to Japan can be found at smartraveller.gov.au