この記事は、日本在住の外国人ゴルファー向けのガイドです。日本の打ちっぱなし（練習場）のマナーや利用方法を詳しく解説しています。
Golf in Japan: 10 Taboos You Must Avoid to Save Face
1. Introduction: More Than Just a Game
In 2026, Japan remains one of the world's most prestigious golf destinations. However, a Japanese golf course (known as a "Country Club") is a place of high social conduct. The phrase "Manner First" is seen everywhere. If you follow the rules, you are a guest of honor; if you break them, you may not be invited back.
2. The Dress Code: The "Lobby to Locker" Rule
NEVER arrive or leave in your golf attire.
- The Mistake: Walking into the clubhouse wearing your golf polo, hat, and spikes.
- The Rule: You must arrive in a jacket (blazer) and leather shoes. Change into your golf gear in the locker room. When leaving, change back into formal/smart-casual wear. This is the #1 sign of respect in Japan.
3. The Mid-Round Ritual: The Mandatory Lunch Break
NEVER expect to play 18 holes straight through (through-play).
- The Mistake: Trying to head to the 10th tee immediately after finishing the 9th.
- The Rule: Almost all Japanese courses have a mandatory 45-60 minute lunch break between nines. You must leave your bag on the cart, go to the clubhouse restaurant, and enjoy a meal (and often a beer).
4. Footwear and Tattoos: The Hidden Taboos
NEVER show your tattoos in the public bath (Sento/Onsen).
- The Mistake: Entering the communal bath after the round with visible tattoos.
- The Rule: Tattoos are still heavily stigmatized in Japanese golf culture. Most clubs will ask you to cover them with skins or skip the bath entirely. Also, never wear your golf spikes inside the carpeted areas of the clubhouse.
5. Pace of Play: "Slow Play is the Greatest Sin"
NEVER take more than 2 hours and 15 minutes for 9 holes.
- The Mistake: Taking multiple practice swings or searching for a lost ball for 10 minutes.
- The Rule: Japanese carts often have a "Pace Indicator." If you are slow, the caddy or a marshal will politely but firmly urge you to speed up. Always carry extra balls in your pocket to avoid searching.
6. On the Green: Silence and Shadows
NEVER step on someone’s line or let your shadow fall over the hole.
- The Mistake: Walking carelessly near the hole while others are putting.
- The Rule: This is universal but strictly enforced in Japan. Additionally, avoid loud "Nice putt!" shouts if other groups are nearby; Japanese courses value a "Zen-like" quietness.
7. Bunker Maintenance: The "Omotenashi" of Sand
NEVER leave a bunker without raking it perfectly.
- The Rule: Rake your footprints and the entry point. In Japan, you should leave the bunker looking better than you found it. Place the rake outside the bunker, parallel to the line of play.
8. Caddy Interaction: Respect the Professional
NEVER ignore your caddy's advice or treat them like a servant.
- The Rule: Most Japanese caddies are experienced women who know every break on the green. Use polite Japanese (e.g., "Onegaishimasu" at the start and "Arigato" at the end). Tipping is generally not required, but a small gift (like a cold drink from a vending machine) is highly appreciated.
9. Mobile Phones: The Silent Treatment
NEVER take a phone call on the course or in the restaurant.
- The Rule: Keep your phone on silent. If you must take a call, walk away from the group and the clubhouse areas to a designated phone zone.
10. The 19th Hole: The Final Bow
NEVER leave without a final "Otsukaresama-deshita."
- The Rule: This phrase means "Thank you for your hard work/effort." Say it to your playing partners and the staff. It closes the social contract of the day.