The birth of the Kyoto Autumn Golf Tour was proposed during the official signing ceremony of the affiliate agreement between TMCC and Shinwa Golf Group in March 2022. Mr Hiromasa Kokufu, CEO of Shinwa Golf Group suggested that the club organise a Members’ trip to experience Japan’s autumn splendour at the renowned Shinwa Golf Courses.
Marking the second edition of the highly successful Kyoto Autumn Golf Tour, 30 TMCC members embarked on an unforgettable golfing adventure across Shiga, Mie, and Hyogo Prefectures, all within the Kansai region. From November 4 to 9, 2024, the group teed off each day at four stunning 18-hole championship golf courses, immersing themselves in world-class golf and the breathtaking autumn scenery:
- Japan Classic Country Club King Course (Designed By Arnold Palmer)
- Shigaraki Country Club Tashiro Course (Designed By Lee Schmidt)
- Cherry Hills Golf Club (Designed By Robert Trent Jones, Jr.)
- Golden Valley Golf Club (Designed By Robert Trent Jones, Jr.)
Each course presented unique challenges and stunning landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable golfing experience. From lush greens to colourful foliage, the courses offered a dynamic and visually striking atmosphere. Among Japan’s finest, these courses have hosted major tournaments like the Japan PGA and LPGA Championships.
The visual splendour of the autumn season was undoubtedly one of the trip’s highlights. Shinwa Golf Courses, dressed in hues of red, gold, and orange, provided a breathtaking backdrop for every round. Tee-offs were framed by vibrant foliage, and the fairways meandered through natural corridors of colour, creating a serene and picturesque golfing experience.
Beyond the golf, the crisp autumn air and stunning landscapes made the entire trip a sensory delight. Whether navigating the challenging fairways at Golden Valley or enjoying the tranquil surroundings at Shigaraki, every moment on the course felt like an immersion in Kansai region’s natural beauty.
During the free-and-easy segments of the trip, the Members took the opportunity to indulge in the delectable local cuisine, true to Kansai region’s reputation for refined culinary traditions, enjoying a variety of traditional dishes and regional delicacies.
The smooth execution of the golf tour was made possible by the dedicated efforts of TMCC’s General Manager, Elliott Gray, and Marketing Events Executive, Dennis Tay, who led the TMCC delegation on the ground. Behind the scenes, key support came from Marketing team members Sally Chua and Nora Binte Ishak. Their meticulous planning ensured that every detail was seamlessly coordinated, from trip briefing, accommodations and tee-off schedules to dining arrangements and transportation, allowing participants to focus entirely on enjoying the experience.
Alongside the TMCC team, Teppei Tani-san, Marketing Manager of Shinwa Golf Group, and his team played a pivotal role in the trip’s success. Their warm hospitality, attention to detail, and prompt responsiveness made the experience personal and memorable, enhancing the overall enjoyment for all participants.
Reflecting on the success of the trip, General Manager Elliott Gray shared, “It was my first time golfing in Japan, and the Shinwa golf courses were superb. The service was exceptional, and Tani-san and his team were outstanding. Members stepped off the limo bus at each course to find their clubs already set up on the buggies, with their tee times clearly displayed. We also had our own private area for lunch after nine holes, with swift food service to ensure we had plenty of time to savour the local dishes. A big thank you to Sally and the Marketing team, whose efforts allowed me to focus on engaging with the members and getting to know everyone a little better.”
The feedback from participating Members was overwhelmingly positive, with many singing the praises of the trip and highlighting the seamless organisation and unforgettable experience.
Member Lee Chong Win recounted his positive experience saying: “It was a fabulous trip. The golf courses were pristine, and the logistics were well-executed. Overall, it was a wonderful experience.”
Member Nicholas Goh echoed similar sentiments, commenting, “I feel truly blessed to have joined this trip with our fellow TMCC Members, who are now friends. This experience will be a cherished memory for many years to come.”
Lady Member Sim Siew Kiang, brimming with appreciation, added, “A big thank you to Elliott and Dennis for all the thoughtful arrangements. I’m truly grateful for the wonderful companions and the unforgettable golf trip.”
Lady Member Yeo Su-Lynn also expressed her appreciation, commenting, “Thank you, Elliott, Dennis, and the entire TMCC team for organizing such a well-planned trip. I’m grateful to everyone for their friendship and for making this journey truly enjoyable and memorable for my parents and me.”
For the 30 Members who participated in this golf tour, the trip was more than just a series of rounds – it was a celebration of friendship, stunning landscapes, and the shared joy of golf. The combination of challenging courses, breathtaking scenery, and the camaraderie of fellow Members created an experience that will be cherished for years to come.
