SHOWGOLF Acquires Japan’s Prestigious ‘Akamizu Golf Resort’... Completing the Kyushu Premium Golf Belt

[Financial News] A new hub for golf travel in Japan has emerged. SHOWGOLF, Korea’s largest golf platform, has acquired 100% of the renowned Akamizu Golf Resort in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, following its previous acquisition of Satsuma Golf & Onsen Resort in Kagoshima. This marks the company’s second resort in Japan.
With this acquisition, SHOWGOLF has completed a Korean-style premium golf belt stretching from the southern to the northern regions of Kyushu.
Akamizu Golf Resort is located near Aso-Kuju National Park, atop one of the world’s largest caldera plains formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 90,000 years ago. The course is famed for its unique terrain, often described as 'nature’s design.' Mist flowing along the fairways and the distant silhouette of Mount Aso create unforgettable scenes for golfers.
From 1976 to 1993, the resort gained fame as the venue for the Bridgestone Aso Open. It became a symbol of prestige on the Japan Golf Tour Organization (JGTO) circuit, with top players from around the world lifting trophies here.

In addition to its expansive 27-hole course, the resort features a hotel with about 100 rooms and natural hot springs, adding to Akamizu’s appeal as a comprehensive resort facility.
Cherry blossoms line the course in spring, and mild temperatures are maintained even in winter, allowing for comfortable rounds year-round. The resort is just a 10-minute walk from the nearest train station, offering excellent access to attractions such as Kumamoto Castle, hot spring villages, and Aso Farm Land.
Following the acquisition, SHOWGOLF is overhauling the resort’s management system to a Korean-style operation. Korean-speaking staff are stationed on-site, and an integrated system now manages accommodation, rounds, and dining reservations.
Additionally, the XGOLF app enables one-stop booking for flights, accommodation, and rounds, streamlining the previously complex Japanese golf reservation process. As a result, golfers can now enjoy local rounds in Japan even on a simple two-night, three-day weekend trip, which has been met with enthusiastic response.

The first round of founding membership recruitment since the acquisition will begin in November. Memberships are offered in three tiers.
The basic 'Red' membership includes one regular member and one unnamed member for 9.8 million KRW. The mid-tier 'Red Plus' offers two regular members and three unnamed members for 19.8 million KRW. The top-tier 'Black' consists of eight unnamed members and is priced at 39.8 million KRW.
All memberships include 18-hole green fees, cart fees, double occupancy accommodation, and round-trip shuttle service between the airport and resort. Members can access prestigious Japanese courses at reasonable rates—12,000 yen on weekdays and 15,000 yen on weekends.

Japan’s golf industry faces urgent needs for operational innovation due to an aging population and labor shortages. Industry insiders note, 'Korean reservation systems and service standards are drawing attention as a new model for Japanese golf course operations,' adding, 'Akamizu Golf Resort is expected to become a leading example.'
A SHOWGOLF representative stated, 'With this acquisition, we have completed a Korean-style golf resort network centered on the Kyushu region. We plan to continue upgrading our systems so that Korean golfers can easily and conveniently enjoy Japan’s prestigious courses.'
Recently, Korean golfers visiting Japan are moving beyond simple 'golf tours' to enjoy local culture and interact with Japanese golfers. SHOWGOLF’s latest move is expected to accelerate this trend even further.
jsi@fnnews.com Jeon Sang-il Reporter