Planning a golf trip to Niseko this summer? Front Office Manager at The Vale Niseko and avid golfer Jessica Tan shares why early tee times is key hitting the onsen post-game is a non-negotiable.
Forget the brochure and skip the reels — the person best placed to tell you about playing golf in Niseko might just be the woman checking you in. When she’s not working at The Vale Niseko, Jessica Tan swaps the front office for the fairway, and she knows the courses better than most guests ever will.
As someone who plays golf on most of her days off, Jessica has strong opinions on tee times and has no patience for vague advice. Here’s her insider guide to teeing off in Niseko during summer.
Tell us how you first got into golf. When did it start, and when did it become a real part of your life?
I first got into golf during the pandemic when I took a gap semester from my studies. At the time, social distancing restrictions meant that many popular activities and crowded places were off-limits, so my father, who has always been passionate about golf, introduced me to the sport.
At first, I simply enjoyed spending time with him, but it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the sport myself. Golf gave me the opportunity to share a hobby with family and friends, creating quality time together and many memorable moments. I also fell in love with the unique atmosphere of the sport — being surrounded by nature, enjoying the fresh air, and constantly challenging myself to improve. Over time, golf became not just a pastime, but a real part of my lifestyle.
You work at The Vale Niseko and you’re also a golfer. How do you carve out time for it alongside a full-time job?
Working in hospitality means weekends are usually our busiest time, so I often play on my days off or squeeze in a practice session before or after work. Golf has become my way to reset and spend time outdoors, so I try to make time for it just like any other important part of life.
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What makes playing golf in Niseko so special?
Golfing in Niseko feels very different from many other places in Japan. On a clear day, you have Mount Yotei as your backdrop, the air is cooler than other parts of the country, and you’re surrounded by nature. It almost feels like a holiday even when you’re just out for a round.
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Does Mount Yotei help or distract you?
Honestly, a little bit of both. Sometimes I catch myself admiring the view instead of focusing on my next shot. But at the same time, seeing Yotei-san reminds me to slow down and enjoy the round rather than worrying too much about my score.
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Any tips for a first-time Niseko golfer?
For someone teeing off in Niseko for the first time, my biggest advice is to slow down and enjoy the experience. Many people come focused on their score, but one of the best things about golfing here is the scenery. On a clear day, the views of Mount Yotei are incredible, so don’t forget to take a few photos along the way.
If possible, I would also recommend booking an early morning tee time. The weather is usually cooler, the course is quieter, and the mountain views are often at their best. July through September is generally a great time to play, with comfortable temperatures compared to many other parts of Japan.
In terms of getting around, it’s easiest with a rental car, especially if you’re planning to play multiple courses during your stay. Most golfers will find self-drive carts perfectly convenient, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, a caddie can also help you enjoy the round and learn more about the course.
Finally, after your round, I always recommend taking advantage of Niseko’s onsen culture and enjoying a good local meal. There is nothing quite like finishing a day on the course, soaking in a hot spring, and sharing dinner with friends while talking about the shots you wish you could play again.
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Ready to tee off? At our award-winning property, The Vale Rusutsu, we pair pro-worthy golf with a penthouse and a butler (if you need one). Explore our stay and play packages.