Architects invited to examine Hanazono's next chapter
Hanazono Golf, an established course in the Niseko area of Hokkaido, Japan, has appointed international golf architecture firm Lobb + Partners to carry out an initial strategic review of its 18-hole layout and visitor experience. The Asian Golf Industry Federation (AGIF) reported the appointment on 26 October 2026, drawing on comments from the people involved. Crucially, this is an assessment, not an approved rebuilding programme. No construction start, course closure, budget, or reopening date has been announced.
Verified location: Hanazono Golf, 1 Hanazono, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0084, Japan. The course's own website confirms the address and seasonal visitor arrangements.
What the review will cover
Tim Lobb, founder and principal of Lobb + Partners, and Alex Hay, who leads the firm's North American work, have visited the property, walked the golf course and met the local team. Michael Pask of Taliesin Advisory is contributing operational and strategic insight.
The project team will examine the present course's qualities, landscape relationship, presentation, playability, guest experience and position within Niseko's tourism offering. The stated aim is to identify strengths worth preserving and opportunities worth considering. There is no published decision to relocate holes, rebuild greens, replace bunkers or expand the layout.
A mountain course with an established identity
Hanazono Golf opened in August 1992 to a design by Chōhei Miyazawa. Its official course description highlights 18 holes threading through birch woodland and natural streams, with views of Mount Yotei and the Annupuri range. The outward nine has more of a woodland character, while the inward nine moves over hillier land. That contrast is part of what any future architect will need to understand before proposing changes.
AGIF also draws a parallel with Whistler, Canada: both are international mountain destinations where golf can complement winter sport during warmer months. It is an observation about tourism strategy, not a confirmed plan for additional resort buildings.
What visitors should know
The club lists its 2026 season as 2 May–3 November and continues to offer visitor booking information. The architectural appointment does not announce any change to those published arrangements. Lobb + Partners will continue its assessment with Hanazono's team, and findings are expected to inform later discussions. Players should watch for a subsequent official plan before treating any proposed works as definite.
Sources: AGIF, 26 October 2026; Hanazono Golf official website; official course overview. Checked 28 October 2026.
