- 121 Views
- 3 Min Read
- (0) Comment
Explore the Premier Golf Destinations in China’s “Spring City”
Kunming, fondly known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” has emerged as a leading golf destination in China. Boasting around 20 cutting‑edge courses amid lush hills and lakes, Kunming offers a world-class golfing experience set against a backdrop of botanical beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious accommodations.
1. Spring City Golf & Lake Resort
- Overview: Located 45 minutes from downtown Kunming by Yangzonghai Lake, this prestigious facility features two championship courses: the Lake Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and the Mountain Course by Jack Nicklaus.
- Awards & Recognition: Named a Distinguished Golf Destination and ranked among Asia’s Top 10 courses in 2025; often listed globally in Golf Digest’s Top 100.
- Why Visit: Exceptional course quality—with green speeds reaching 12–13 on the Stimpmeter—combined with luxury villas, spa facilities, and stunning lakeside scenery.
2. Kunming Lakeview Golf Club
- Design & Layout: An 18-hole, par-72 championship course covering 7,260 yards, designed by Sir Nick Faldo. Its layout incorporates elegant water features and the city’s iconic botanical landscape.
- Reputation: Consistently honored as one of China’s top golf venues—receiving awards such as “Top 10 Golf Course in China” and “30 Must-Play Courses” .
- Experience: Elevated club experience with rolling fairways, over eighty strategic bunkers, and sweeping views of Dianchi Lake and Western Hills .
3. Kunming Country Golf Club
- Background: Established in 1995 as a Sino-foreign joint venture, this 18-hole, par‑72 course spans diverse terrain and includes tennis courts and a pool.
- Design Influence: Crafted by Australian designer Les Watts to complement Kunming’s natural features.
- Great For: Golfers seeking a country-club experience close to both urban amenities and scenic tranquility.
4. Kunming Sunshine Golf Club
- Location: Situated in Beicheng District, approximately 20 minutes from Kunming International Airport.
- Course Features: Known for its strategic back-nine with challenging elevation changes, tight doglegs, and thoughtfully placed bunkers.
- Why Play: Ideal for golfers seeking a tactical round, yet close enough to the city for convenience.
5. Kunming Qianglin (Wanda) Golf Club
- Overview: Previously known as Wanda Golf Club, this 18-hole, par‑72 course designed by LCW (Australia) lies within the Dianchi National Resort area.
- Advantages: Excellent transport links (20 minutes from both city centre and airport), near other amenities such as Lakeview Club, hot springs, and ethnic cultural attractions.
- Ideal For: Leisure, business events, and group outings in a prestigious resort setting.
6. Kunming OCT Wind Valley Golf Club
- Design Collaboration: The first Chinese courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II; situated beside Yangzong Lake.
- Course Experience: Features long vistas, holes laid across hilltops and valley-bottoms, undulating greens, and visually striking bunkers.
- Clubhouse: Designed by U.S. firm MAI, offering full locker rooms, upscale dining, and private event spaces.
Why Kunming Is a Premier Golf Destination
- Mild Climate Year-Round
Kunming’s average temperatures (9 °C Jan to 20 °C June) offer “eternal spring” conditions perfect for golf - Scenic and Varied Landscapes
Courses offer everything from mountainside vistas to lakeside panoramas, seamlessly integrating with nature. - International-Standard Design
With clubs by Nicklaus, Jones Jr., Faldo, and Watts, visitors enjoy championship layouts and superior course architecture. - Luxury and Convenience
Most clubs offer resort-style lodgings, spas, fine dining, and proximity to cultural and natural attractions. - Quiet, Leisurely Play
Spacious fairways and peaceful environments make for a refreshing golfing experience.
2025 Golf Itinerary Suggestion
3–5 Day Kunming Golf Tour:
- Day 1: Arrival and tee-off at Lakeview Club
- Day 2: Full round at Spring City—Lake or Mountain course
- Day 3: Round at Sunshine or Country Club + optional cultural visit
- Day 4: Play at Qianglin or Wind Valley + afternoon sightseeing
- Day 5: Departure
Early tee-time bookings (especially from March–October) and package deals are strongly recommended.
Leave a comment: