Shanghai, a city known for its dazzling skyline and vibrant culture, also holds a hidden gem for sports enthusiasts: a surprisingly diverse collection of world-class golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro seeking a challenging round or a casual player looking for a relaxing day on the green, golf courses in Shanghai, China offer something for everyone. From meticulously manicured fairways to stunning views, this bustling metropolis provides an unforgettable golfing experience. Join us as we explore the best golf courses in Shanghai, China, delving into their unique features, rich history, and what makes them a must-visit for any golf lover. Get ready to tee off in style!
Key Takeaways
- Shanghai’s golf courses cater to all levels: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find a course that suits your skill level and budget, from affordable public options to exclusive championship clubs.
- Smart planning enhances your golf trip: Playing during the spring or autumn seasons offers the most pleasant weather. Consider weekday tee times for potential cost savings and arrange transportation in advance for easy travel between courses and other destinations.
- Shanghai is a growing golf destination: The city’s vibrant golf scene is marked by high-quality courses, the return of prestigious tournaments like the Buick LPGA Shanghai, and the rise of local talent, making it an exciting time for golf enthusiasts.
Explore Shanghai’s Best Golf Courses
Shanghai’s dynamic skyline isn’t the only impressive view in the city. Dotting the landscape are some of China’s best golf courses, offering a compelling blend of challenging play and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Shanghai’s diverse courses promise an unforgettable golfing experience. Let’s tee off on a tour of some standout options:
Lake Malaren Golf Club: Known for hosting the BMW Masters, Lake Malaren offers two 18-hole courses—one public and one private—providing options for various skill levels and budgets. Green fees are surprisingly reasonable, ranging from $57 to $75 USD, making a round here accessible to many golfers. The course design itself is a thoughtful balance, challenging players while immersing them in beautiful surroundings.
Shanghai Sun Island International Golf Club: For those seeking a truly expansive golfing experience, Sun Island is a must-play. With two courses totaling over 10,200 yards and 144 pars, this club offers a test for every aspect of your game. The green fees are around $160 USD, reflecting the premium quality of the facilities and the sheer scale of the course.
Shanghai Binhai Golf Club: Binhai presents another excellent two-course option, with 18 holes on each. What makes Binhai particularly appealing is its flexibility: green fees can range from a very affordable $36 to $149 USD depending on the day and time you play. This makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking for a quality round without breaking the bank.
Shanghai Tianma Golf & Country Club: Variety is the name of the game at Tianma, with three distinct courses totaling over 10,500 yards. This allows golfers to choose a course that best suits their playing style and preferred level of challenge. Green fees range from $75 to $149 USD, offering a balance of quality and value.
Qizhong Garden Golf Club: This course is worth highlighting as the home of the Buick LPGA Shanghai, a prominent event on the LPGA Tour. Watching the pros compete on this challenging course offers valuable insights and inspiration for your own game. Experiencing Qizhong Garden yourself lets you walk the same fairways as some of the world’s best female golfers.
Golf in Shanghai: A Quick History
Golf in Shanghai has a fascinating history, mirroring China’s own social and economic transformation. For years, the Chinese government saw golf as a “bourgeois” pastime, a relic of wealth and privilege they aimed to erase. The sport was outright banned until the mid-1980s. But as China opened its economy in the late 20th century, golf’s popularity began to blossom, especially in bustling cities like Shanghai.
By 2004, around 170 golf courses dotted China’s landscape. Just five years later, that number exploded to nearly 600, fueled by a burgeoning middle class eager to embrace golf as a leisure activity. In 2011, estimates pegged the number of dedicated adult golfers in China at roughly 358,000, with some predicting a surge to 20 million by 2020. While that particular projection proved overly optimistic, the growth of the game has been undeniable. You can learn more about the development of golf in China on Wikipedia.
Shanghai, a global metropolis, naturally became a hub for this golfing renaissance. The city now boasts several world-class courses and hosts prestigious international tournaments, like the Buick LPGA Shanghai, which debuted in 2018 at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club. This tournament not only underscores Shanghai’s commitment to golf but also showcases rising Chinese stars. In fact, Yin Ruoning made history by becoming the first Chinese golfer to win the LPGA Shanghai title.
Despite its growing popularity, golf in Shanghai faces ongoing challenges, including environmental concerns and government regulations aimed at managing the number of courses. Even so, the sport’s future in Shanghai looks bright, with the city continuing to be a prime destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.
Shanghai’s Top Golf Courses
Shanghai boasts a surprising number of world-class golf courses, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for a challenging round or a relaxing day on the green, you’ll find it here. Let’s tee off our exploration of Shanghai’s finest:
Sheshan International Golf Club
Sheshan International Golf Club is a must-play for serious golfers visiting Shanghai. Known for hosting the prestigious HSBC Champions tournament, this course offers a challenging layout with strategic bunkering and water hazards. Set against a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes, Sheshan demands precision and rewards skillful play. It’s a true test of golf, making it a favorite among seasoned players. For more information, check out the Sheshan International Golf Club website.
Shanghai Links Golf Club
If you appreciate courses that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, Shanghai Links Golf Club is your spot. This beautifully designed course incorporates the natural landscape, creating a picturesque setting for your round. Popular with both locals and international players, Shanghai Links offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all levels. You can find details and booking information on the Shanghai Links website.
Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club
Tomson Shanghai Pudong Golf Club is where meticulous grooming meets tranquil beauty. Known for its impeccably maintained greens and serene atmosphere, this club offers a relaxing escape from the city buzz. The course layout caters to various skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone, from seasoned pros to weekend enthusiasts.
Jade Garden Golf Club
Looking for a peaceful round surrounded by lush greenery? Jade Garden Golf Club delivers. This well-designed course offers a balanced challenge for all skill levels, set within a serene and picturesque environment. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the game in a tranquil setting. Explore their offerings on the Jade Garden Golf Club website.
Qizhong Garden Golf Club
Qizhong Garden Golf Club holds a special place on the international golf stage as the host of the Buick LPGA Shanghai. This championship-caliber course offers a challenging yet fair test for golfers, with well-maintained fairways and greens. Playing here, you’ll experience the same conditions as the world’s top female golfers, adding a touch of prestige to your round. Learn more about the course on the LPGA tournament overview page.
Amenities and Facilities: What to Expect
Getting ready to tee off in Shanghai? You’ll find a fantastic range of amenities and facilities to elevate your golfing experience. Many courses boast designs by legendary golf architects like Jack Nicklaus and Peter Thomson, promising challenging play and beautifully crafted layouts. These courses typically offer modern clubhouses complete with dining options, pro shops stocked with the latest gear, and comfortable lounges perfect for relaxing before or after a round. For specifics on what individual courses offer, checking out a Shanghai golf course guide can be helpful.
Beyond the basics, some courses offer special features like night golfing, extending your play beyond daylight hours. Renting clubs and shoes is usually an option, which is handy for travelers. Green fees have a pretty wide range, from $36 to upwards of $183, depending on the course and the day of the week—so you can find something that fits your budget. Comparing courses online lets you see the pricing and amenities side-by-side.
Many Shanghai golf courses go beyond just the game, offering extra perks like hotels and spas, turning your golf outing into a full-fledged leisure experience. Most courses also have caddies available, typically for around 100 RMB (about $14) for 18 holes, adding a personalized touch to your round. For those looking to pick up some new equipment or apparel, you’ll find pro shops conveniently located in areas like Jiu Guang Mall and Hongqiao, as suggested by discussions with local golfers.
Green Fees and Memberships: What You’ll Pay
Planning a golf getaway to Shanghai? Understanding the costs involved is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for green fees and memberships at Shanghai’s golf courses.
Typical Green Fees
Green fees in Shanghai offer a range of options depending on the course and the day of the week. You’ll find courses catering to different budgets, with fees typically falling between $36 and $183 USD or more for 18 holes. This variety allows you to choose a course that aligns with your spending preferences. For example, a round at a more exclusive club will naturally command a higher price than a public course.
Membership Options and Benefits
For those planning on playing frequently, many Shanghai golf courses offer membership programs that can lead to significant savings. These memberships often come with perks like discounted green fees and invitations to exclusive member events. Some clubs even offer complimentary equipment rentals as part of their membership packages. A membership can be a smart investment if you’re a dedicated golfer looking to maximize your time on the course and potentially connect with other enthusiasts.
Weekday vs. Weekend Pricing
It’s worth noting that green fees in Shanghai often differ between weekdays and weekends. Weekday rounds generally average around 1000 RMB (approximately $140 USD), while weekend tee times can be pricier, often reaching 1400 RMB ($200 USD) or higher. This pricing structure is standard practice across many courses, so factor this into your budget when planning your trip. If your schedule is flexible, opting for a weekday round can be a great way to save.
Discounts and Packages
Looking for ways to save on green fees? Venturing slightly outside of the city can sometimes uncover more budget-friendly options. Courses like Sun Island Suzhou, Nine Dragons, and Anji King Valley, located just outside Shanghai, may offer lower rates. Exploring these alternatives can be a great way to enjoy quality golf without breaking the bank. Additionally, keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or package deals that some courses may offer, providing further opportunities to save.
When to Play Golf in Shanghai
Shanghai’s subtropical climate means distinct seasons, each affecting golf conditions. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for a round. Think March through May and September through November for ideal temperatures and lower humidity. These “sweet spots” balance comfortable warmth with sunshine, making your time on the course more enjoyable. You’ll find the fairways less crowded than peak season, too.
China Highlights suggests spring and autumn as the prime times to visit Shanghai for pleasant weather. Summer in Shanghai can be intensely hot and humid, while winter brings a chill, making golfing less appealing. Planning your trip around these shoulder seasons is a good strategy.
While autumn offers those desirable mild temperatures, it also marks the beginning of Shanghai’s wetter season, according to The Helpful Panda. Packing for the occasional shower is smart, but don’t let a little rain deter you – the overall conditions during autumn remain excellent for golf. Just remember to check the forecast before heading out.
Notable Shanghai Golf Tournaments
Shanghai isn’t just a hub for amazing golf courses; it’s a regular stop on the professional golf circuit. Prestigious tournaments draw top players worldwide, adding to the city’s vibrant golf scene. One of the most prominent is the Buick LPGA Shanghai, held at the beautiful Qizhong Garden Golf Club. Since its 2018 debut, this tournament has become a key event on the LPGA Tour, showcasing incredible talent in women’s golf.
The Buick LPGA Shanghai is especially significant because it reflects the growing interest in women’s golf in China. With a substantial purse of $2,100,000, it’s one of the LPGA Tour’s richest events. In 2024, Yin Ruoning made history as the first Chinese golfer to win the tournament, raising its profile in China and internationally. The tournament has also seen past champions like Danielle Kang, who secured wins in both 2018 and 2019, demonstrating the high level of competition. For more on the tournament’s history, visit Sportskeeda.
After a break due to the pandemic, the Buick LPGA Shanghai’s return in 2023 highlighted its role in promoting golf throughout the region. The tournament provides a platform for both local and international players.
Plan Your Shanghai Golf Trip
Planning a golf getaway to Shanghai? Smart planning is key to a smooth and enjoyable trip. Think about the best time to visit, which course suits your style, and how you’ll get around.
Shanghai’s weather is most agreeable for golf in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, perfect for spending a day on the greens. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings cooler temperatures. Consider these factors when booking your flights and accommodations.
Shanghai has a wide range of golf courses, from challenging championship courses to more relaxed layouts. Do some research to find the right fit for your skill level and playing style. If you’re hoping to catch a professional tournament, time your trip to coincide with the Buick LPGA Shanghai, a major stop on the LPGA tour.
Transportation is another factor to consider. Most courses are located outside the city center, roughly an hour away. Ride-hailing services are an option, but can be pricey. Many courses provide a list of local drivers for return trips, often a more budget-friendly alternative. Planning your transportation in advance will ensure you can easily travel between your hotel, the course, and other attractions you want to explore in Shanghai.
The Future of Golf in Shanghai
The future of golf in Shanghai looks bright, with growing popularity among locals and international players. Shanghai already has a thriving golf scene, offering numerous high-quality courses for every skill level, from weekend warriors to seasoned pros. This growth isn’t just a Shanghai phenomenon; it’s part of a larger trend across China, especially in areas like Hainan province, where golf is booming among business professionals and officials, as Wikipedia notes. The return of prominent tournaments, like the Buick LPGA Shanghai, signals renewed enthusiasm for the sport. The tournament’s comeback at the Shanghai Qizhong Garden Golf Club highlights the increasing investment in women’s golf and the region’s growing international presence.
The Buick LPGA Shanghai’s return after a hiatus is a significant development for the sport. The success of local players like Yin Ruoning, the first Chinese golfer to win the LPGA Shanghai title, further fuels this momentum. Her victory demonstrates the potential for homegrown talent to shine on the world stage and inspires the next generation of golfers, raising the profile of golf in Shanghai. With top-notch facilities, increasing participation, and a busy schedule of international events, Shanghai is poised to become a major hub for golf in China.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average green fees for a round of golf in Shanghai?
Green fees in Shanghai vary quite a bit, generally ranging from $36 to $183 USD for 18 holes. The price depends on factors like the specific course, the day of the week (weekends are usually more expensive), and any special promotions or packages available. It’s a good idea to check directly with the course or use online comparison tools to get the most up-to-date pricing.
What is the best time of year to play golf in Shanghai?
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times to play golf in Shanghai. These seasons offer the most comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Specifically, March through May and September through November provide pleasant conditions for a round of golf. Summer can be quite hot and humid, while winter brings colder temperatures, making these seasons less ideal for golfing.
Are there opportunities to watch professional golf tournaments in Shanghai?
Yes! Shanghai hosts the Buick LPGA Shanghai, a prominent tournament on the LPGA Tour. This event takes place at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club and attracts some of the best female golfers in the world. Checking the tournament’s official website for specific dates and ticket information is a good idea if you’re interested in attending.
What should I consider when planning transportation to golf courses in Shanghai?
Many golf courses are located outside the city center, often about an hour away. While ride-hailing apps are available, they can be expensive for these longer trips. Many courses provide contact information for local drivers who offer return trips at more competitive rates. Planning your transportation in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey to and from the course.
Besides playing golf, are there other amenities available at Shanghai’s golf courses?
Absolutely! Many Shanghai golf courses offer a range of amenities beyond just the game itself. These can include well-equipped clubhouses with dining options, pro shops selling golf equipment and apparel, and comfortable lounges for relaxing. Some courses even offer additional features like hotels, spas, and night golfing. Checking with the specific course you’re interested in to see what amenities they offer is always a good idea.