China's golf scene grew rapidly from the 1980s onwards, and today there are courses around major cities and on the tropical island of Hainan. Hong Kong has its own long golf tradition. Golf in China is often expensive and centred on private clubs, but visitors can play with some planning. Here's what to expect.
Where to play
- Beijing and the north: courses around the capital, best in spring and autumn.
- Shanghai and the Yangtze delta: many courses within reach of the city.
- Guangdong (Shenzhen and Guangzhou): a large cluster of courses in the south.
- Hainan Island: tropical resort golf, popular in winter.
- Yunnan: mountain courses in the southwest with a mild climate.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong has a long golf history, with courses in the New Territories and on outlying islands, plus driving ranges in the city. Access to private clubs is often limited for visitors; public options exist but book up quickly.
Booking and access
- Hotels and tour operators can arrange tee times. Read golf tour operators.
- Weekdays are easier and cheaper.
- Carry your handicap details if asked.
Caddies and etiquette
- Caddies are standard; tipping customs vary, so ask locally. Read tipping in golf.
- Clubhouses are often large, with restaurants and changing facilities.
- Dress smartly. Read clubhouse etiquette.
When to go
| Region | Best months |
|---|---|
| Beijing and the north | April to June, September to October |
| Shanghai | April to May, October to November |
| Southern China | October to April |
| Hainan | November to April |
Practical tips
- Visas and travel requirements: check before travelling.
- Payment and apps: local payment apps are widely used; ask your hotel for help.
- Air quality and heat: check forecasts. Read hot weather golf.
- Jet lag: read jet lag and golf trips.
Sample itineraries
| Trip | Length | Outline |
|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta | 5–6 days | Golf in Hong Kong and nearby mainland cities, plus city sightseeing |
| Hainan island | 6–7 days | Tropical resort golf in winter, with beaches |
| Shanghai and Beijing | 7–8 days | Two big cities, a few rounds in each and the main historic sites |
| Southwest mountains | 7–8 days | Cooler, high-altitude golf around Kunming and Yunnan's scenery |
Hainan: China's tropical golf island
Hainan, in the far south, is China's main winter golf destination, with a tropical climate, beaches and a concentration of resort courses. It's busiest between November and March, when the weather is warm and dry and much of northern China is too cold for golf.
Golf at altitude in the southwest
Yunnan province, around Kunming, has a mild, spring-like climate much of the year and courses at high altitude, so the ball flies noticeably further. Read golf at altitude.
Caddies, carts and club culture
- Caddies are standard at most clubs, often one per player. They manage the cart, give yardages and read greens.
- Tipping customs vary; ask the club or your organiser.
- Clubhouses often include locker rooms, restaurants and bathhouses, and post-round meals can be an important social part of the day.
- Business golf is common, so dress and behave as you would in a formal club. Read clubhouse etiquette.
Practical tips
- Visas: check requirements well ahead; rules can change.
- Apps and internet: many foreign apps and sites are restricted on the mainland. Download maps, translation tools and booking details before you travel.
- Payment: mobile payment dominates; check how visitors can pay, and carry some cash and a card.
- Booking: many courses are members-only; a local contact, hotel or tour operator can help with access. Read golf tour operators.
- Air quality: check forecasts in large cities, especially in winter.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists play golf in China?
Yes, usually through hotels, tour operators or member introductions.
Is golf in China expensive?
Often, especially at weekends and at premium clubs.
Where is the best winter golf in China?
Hainan Island, with its tropical climate.
Do I need a caddie in China?
At most courses, yes.
Can visitors play golf in Hong Kong?
Yes, though tee times are limited and many courses are private. Public options and visitor days exist; book ahead.
Where is the best winter golf in China?
Hainan island, in the tropical south.
The bottom line
Golf in China and Hong Kong requires planning, but rewards visitors with modern courses and resort golf on Hainan. Book through hotels or operators, play weekdays and follow local customs. For more Asian golf, read golf in Japan and South Korea and golf in Thailand and Southeast Asia.