Kunming Yulong Bay Golf Club

Kunming Yulong Bay Golf Club (昆明玉龙湾高尔夫俱乐部) is a world-class golf destination located in the Taiping New Town (太平新区) of Anning, Kunming (昆明), Yunnan Province. The course was designed by the prestigious Schmidt-Cory Design Company, led by renowned designer Lee Schmidt, and it spans 3,300 acres. The golf course is built to international championship standards, featuring 18 holes with a par 72 layout and a total length of 7,265 yards.

The course is set against a backdrop of mountainous terrain, with distinctive red sandstone features, lush vegetation, and pristine water landscapes. It integrates natural features, such as rocky outcrops, forests, and lakes, which makes the golfing experience both visually stunning and challenging.

Since its opening in 2013, Kunming Yulong Bay Golf Club has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among China’s Top 10 Golf Courses by Golf Digest. It has also hosted high-profile events such as the PGA China Tour.

Location and Accessibility

Address: Olympic Avenue, Taiping New Town, Anning, Kunming, Yunnan, China.

Distance from Kunming City Center: Approximately 25 km (around 40 minutes by car).

Distance from Changshui International Airport: About 50 minutes (via car).

Nearby Attractions

Yulong Bay Waterfront Forest Park (玉龙湾水岸森林公园): Located next to the course, this serene park is ideal for relaxing walks amidst nature.

Xishan National Forest Park (西山国家森林公园): A well-known hiking destination offering panoramic views of Kunming and surrounding areas.

Anning Hot Springs (安宁温泉): Famous for its therapeutic properties, located just 15 minutes away.

Course Design and Features

Course Layout

Total Length: 7,265 yards (6,640 meters)

Par: 72

Course Type: Mountain course with significant elevation changes (up to 30 meters).

Greens and Fairways: The course features Bentgrass greens and Ryegrass fairways, providing excellent playability and maintenance.

Unique Design Features

The course is carefully integrated into the natural landscape, with 16 holes positioned near water, providing both challenges and stunning views.

The use of natural rock formations, sandstone cliffs, and forests adds an element of strategy and beauty to the design. The layout blends the Alpine-style design with the unique Yunnan terrain.

Signature Holes

Hole 9: A par 4 with a dramatic cliffside drop of 28 meters, requiring precision and strategy.

Hole 16: A par 5 that features a sandstone canyon obstacle, making it a challenging and visually striking hole.

Double-Tier Greens

One of the standout features of Yulong Bay Golf Club is its double-tier greens. This design often leads to tricky situations where golfers might find themselves putting for three or four times, adding an extra layer of challenge to their round.

Facilities and Amenities

Core Facilities

Championship Mountain Course: Featuring a challenging layout with natural elevation changes.

Red Sandstone-Themed Practice Range: A unique driving range set among the striking red sandstone formations.

GPS Golf Carts: Provided to enhance the experience and assist players in navigating the course.

Clubhouse and Dining

Rock Landscape Clubhouse: The modern clubhouse offers panoramic views of the course and surrounding landscape.

Cliffside Restaurant: Located near Hole 9, it offers guests a chance to enjoy their meals with incredible views.

Red Sandstone Lounge: A relaxing spot to unwind after a round, offering light snacks and drinks.

Accommodation

Lakeview Suites: These rooms offer scenic balconies overlooking the tranquil waters of Yulong Bay.

Golf Villas: Equipped with private practice greens, these luxurious villas offer an immersive golfing experience.

Pricing

Service	Weekday Price (CNY)	Weekend Price (CNY)	Notes
18-Hole Round	690 – 2,100	980 – 2,500	Includes early bird discounts.
Accommodation Package	From 980 CNY	From 1,280 CNY	Includes one round of golf and one night stay.

Golf Tips and Features

Course Challenges

Hole 9 (Par 4): A cliffside hole with a significant drop, requiring careful shot placement to avoid hazards below.

Hole 16 (Par 5): A challenging hole with a sandstone canyon obstacle that requires accurate navigation of the fairway.

Best Time to Play

March to May: The weather is mild, with green speeds of 9-10, providing ideal golfing conditions during these months.

Leisure Activities and Family-Friendly Options

Unique Experiences

Red Sandstone Night Golf: A spectacular night golf experience under the lights, offering a unique view of the red sandstone landscape.

Golf-Themed Hot Springs: After a challenging round, guests can relax in the nearby hot springs known for their healing properties.

Family Activities

Mini Golf Academy: A perfect family activity, this academy allows children and beginners to learn and practice golf in a fun environment.

Bird Watching: The course is surrounded by lush forests and wetlands, making it a great place for ecological tourism and bird watching.

Nearby Attractions

Nature Spots

Yulong Bay Film Studio (玉龙湾影视基地): A 1.5 km drive from the golf course, this film studio is an interesting spot for those who want to explore the cinematic side of the area.

Xishan Forest Park: A must-visit destination for nature lovers, offering great hiking trails and scenic views.

Cultural Experiences

Anning Hot Springs Museum: Learn about the region’s therapeutic hot springs and their healing powers.

French Style Town: Explore a charming town with French-inspired architecture, a blend of cultural heritage and European flair.

Transportation

Driving Directions

From Kunming City Center: Take the Hangrui Expressway towards the Taiping Interchange, a 40-minute drive.

Public Transport

Bus: Take Anning Taiping Line 1 to Longwan No.1 Station.

Kunming Yulong Bay Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience set in one of China’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the course provides both challenges and rewards with its strategic design and spectacular views. Yulong Bay is a place where golf enthusiasts can test their skills while enjoying the serenity and beauty of Yunnan’s majestic mountains and waterways. With modern facilities, luxurious accommodations, and nearby leisure activities, it’s an ideal destination for golf lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.