Kunming Country Golf Club

The Kunming Country Golf Club (昆明乡村高尔夫俱乐部) is one of the premier golf destinations in Yunnan, offering an international-standard 18-hole, 72-par course. It was established as a joint venture approved by the Kunming Foreign Investment Approval Office and opened its doors in December 1997. Designed by the renowned Australian golf architect Les Watts, the course integrates the natural landscape and scenic beauty of the area to provide a challenging yet aesthetically pleasing golfing experience.

Overview of the Golf Club

Opening Date: December 1997

Location: Kunming, Yunnan Province, China

Designer: Les Watts (澳大利亚著名高尔夫球场规划设计师)

Course Characteristics

The Kunming Country Golf Club is nestled in the picturesque Yunnan plateau, surrounded by lakes, ponds, and rivers. The course layout is unique, with dramatic elevation changes and a variety of terrain that challenges golfers of all skill levels.

First Nine Holes: Narrow and winding fairways create a visually deceptive layout that demands precision and strategy.

Back Nine Holes: Open and expansive, with sweeping views of the landscape, offering a more straightforward approach but still requiring careful shot planning.

Elevation Difference: Some areas of the course experience up to 60 meters of elevation change, making for an exciting and dynamic golfing experience.

Greens: Smooth and subtle, designed to offer both beauty and challenge. The course features strategically placed sand traps and water features that require golfers to carefully plan their shots.

Design and Grass Quality

Fairway Grass: Heaven 419 (天堂419) grass is used for the fairways, known for its durability and ability to stay lush year-round.

Greens Grass: The greens are planted with Putte grass (Putte草), which is smooth, fine, and ideal for the course’s conditions. These grasses provide a consistent playing surface throughout the year, ensuring high-quality turf conditions regardless of the season.

Facilities and Services

Core Facilities

Course Length: 6400 meters

Par: 72

Total Holes: 18

Grass Types:

• Fairways: Heaven 419 (天堂419)

• Greens: Putte grass (Putte草)

Practice Range: Available, complete with professional coaching staff to improve your skills.

Additional Facilities

Public Clubhouse: 7068㎡

Private Clubhouse: 6800㎡

Locker Services: Free lockers available for members and guests

Refreshments: Tea services available to guests after a round of golf

Accommodation

Villas: The club offers villas with independent kitchens, allowing guests to stay for extended periods with the convenience of self-catering.

Nearby Hotels: Three 4-star hotels are within a 2 km radius, offering comfortable accommodations for visiting golfers.

Dining Options

Wild Mushroom Hotpot: A specialty served in the clubhouse, offering a unique taste of local Yunnan ingredients.

Yunnan Ethnic Cuisine: The Ten Miles of Sunshine Restaurant (十里阳光餐厅) offers traditional ethnic dishes, giving you a taste of local Yunnan culture after your round of golf.

Club Policies

Member Benefits

Birthday Month: Members enjoy free green fees during their birthday month.

Companion Discounts: Special pricing for companions during the off-season, particularly on Mondays.

Environmental Policies

No Cleats: Golfers are prohibited from wearing cleats on the greens to maintain the quality of the playing surface.

Course Maintenance: Fairway grass is replaced every year in April. If you plan to visit during this period, it’s best to check in advance, as the course will be undergoing maintenance.

Events and Activities

Regular Events

Membership Day: Held on the first Wednesday of every month, offering 50% off green fees for members. This is a great opportunity for members to enjoy a discounted round of golf and mingle with other enthusiasts.

Special Events

2025: The “Stone Forest Cup” Karst Challenge Tournament (石林杯), a prestigious event featuring players from around the world, will take place in August.

Charity Tournaments: The club regularly organizes charity golf tournaments, fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.

Golf Lessons and Camps

Youth Summer Camp: Available for children aged 7-15, helping them to improve their golfing skills while also providing fun and engaging activities.

Corporate Team Building: Customized golf events and team-building activities for businesses, perfect for companies looking to host a memorable event with a difference.

Pricing Information

Golfing Tips

Equipment Recommendations

Essential Gear:

• 7-iron: Useful for dealing with short fairways.

• Windproof Jacket: The high-altitude conditions of Kunming can bring sudden weather changes.

Optional Gear:

• Professional Golf Hat: The UV rays are stronger in Kunming due to its high altitude, so a hat will protect you from the sun.

Best Time to Play

Morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Enjoy calm, windless conditions on the lake and cool temperatures.

Spring and Autumn: These seasons offer the most pleasant weather, making them ideal times to play (March-May and September-November).

Course Strategy Tips

Hole 7: Watch out for the 60-meter drop at the landing area. It’s important to plan your shots carefully to avoid losing control.

Hole 15: The 450-yard long tee requires careful planning. It’s a long hole that demands both strength and accuracy in the drive.

Getting There

Driving Directions

From Kunming City:

• Take Beichen Avenue (北辰大道) → Kunming-Shi Expressway (昆石高速) → Anshi Road (安石公路). The entire journey takes approximately 38 minutes.

From Kunming Changshui Airport: 20 minutes

From Kunming South Railway Station: 25 minutes

Parking

200 free parking spots are available at the club

The parking area is equipped with charging stations for electric vehicles

Kunming Country Golf Club (昆明乡村高尔夫俱乐部) is an exceptional golfing destination in Yunnan, offering a world-class course, state-of-the-art facilities, and a unique cultural experience. Whether you’re looking for a challenging game of golf, a relaxing retreat, or a special event, this club promises to provide an unforgettable experience.