Top 12 Best Golf Courses in China For Elite Golfers in 2025/2026
Golf, traditionally known as a Western pastime, has become a booming industry in China. With the rapid construction of about 500 golf courses, China is quickly positioning itself as a major golf destination. Affluent regions, including Guangdong, Hainan, Hong Kong, and Yunnan, have become central hubs, with metropolises such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen not far behind. In the following article, we proudly introduce you to some of the most distinguished golf courses in China. For bespoke tours, reach out to us.
Most Thrilling Golf Courses in China
1. The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula
- Address: Wanning, Hainan Island, South China
- Designer: Tom Weiskopf
The Dunes at Shenzhou Peninsula
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Wanning on Hainan Island, this Tom Weiskopf-designed course is a golfer’s paradise. Awarded a prominent position in the top 10 New International Golf Courses in 2010 by the U.S Golf magazine, its charm lies in its pristine sand terrains, artfully sculpted bunkers, and panoramic views of the South China Sea. Golfers particularly rave about the breathtaking par-4 15th and 16th holes, which offer both challenge and spectacle.
2. Mission Hills Golf Club Shenzhen
- Address: Between Shenzhen and Dongguan, South China
- Designer: 12 top golf players in the world
Mission Hills Golf Club Shenzhen
This sprawling golfing haven stretches between Shenzhen and Dongguan, showcasing a mosaic of 12 distinct courses. Each course is a masterpiece crafted by global golfing legends, including Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. As a holder of the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest golf club since 2004, its reputation precedes it. Its legacy is further cemented by hosting prestigious tournaments, drawing international attention to China golf courses.
3. Spring City Golf & Lake Resort
- Address: Kunming, Yunnan Province, Southwest China
- Designer: Jack Nicklaus (mountain course) and Robert Trent Jones Jr. (lake course)
Spring City Golf & Lake Resort
Located in Kunming, Yunnan, Spring City is a testament to the genius of designers Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones Jr. The city’s perpetual spring climate, combined with mesmerizing lake and mountain views, makes it one of the best golf courses in China. The resort, comprising luxury villas and championship golf courses, is frequently honored in global rankings, a testament to its world-class standards.
4. Jinshi Golf Club
- Address: Dalian, Liaoning Province, Northeast China
- Designer: Peter L.H. Thompson and Zhu Zongying
Jinshi Golf Club
Jinshi Golf Club, also known as Dalian Jinyuanshi Beach Golf Club, is one of the most beautiful coastal golf courses in China. Founded in 1995, the golf course was quickly rated as one of the top ten golf courses in the world. With its unique three-side seaside location, Jinshi Golf Club provides magnificent scenery of the Hoang Hai Sea, which, combined with the mild climate all year round, provides ideal conditions for playing golf and taking vacations. Notably, this course has hosted many national and international tournaments and has been rated one of the must-see destinations in China by famous golf magazines.
5. Sheshan International Golf Club
- Address: Shanghai, East China
- Designer: Nelson & Haworth Design
Sheshan International Golf Club
As Shanghai’s pioneering and most esteemed private golf club, Sheshan is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Annually hosting the WGC-HSBC Champions since 2006, it has stamped its authority in the list of the best golf courses in China. Numerous accolades adorn its trophy cabinet, making it not just a course, but a symbol of golfing excellence in China.
6. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club
- Address: Lijiang, Yunnan Province, Southwest China
- Designer: Neil Haworth
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club
Located near the ancient town of Lijiang, this club provides a breathtaking vista of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a par-72 8548-yard course layout. The blend of snow-capped mountains, ethnic villages, and the golfing green makes it a unique destination. Its altitude offers golfers an unparalleled experience, with the course sitting at a lofty 3100 meters above sea level, making it a marvel of golf architecture.
7. Mission Hills Haikou
- Address: Haikou, Hainan Island, South China
- Designer: Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley
Mission Hills Haikou
On Hainan Island’s city of Haikou, this 54-hole championship course offers a unique fusion of golf and geology. Built atop ancient lava beds, its terrains evoke the region’s volcanic origins, offering a golfing experience like no other. With varied layouts catering to all skill levels, it promises a rich and diverse golfing experience.
8. Pine Valley Golf Resort & Country Club
- Address: Beijing, North China
- Designer: Jack Nicklaus
Pine Valley Golf Resort & Country Club
Situated in Beijing, Pine Valley Golf Club is one of the premier invite-only China golf courses. With vistas encompassing the iconic Badaling Great Wall and enveloping mountains, it’s a visual and sporting delight. The course follows the parkland design, with 7,216 yards and a par of 72, and makes full use of natural terrain and well-maintained landscapes. Notably, the course has hosted many professional tournaments, such as the Pine Valley Beijing Open and the Reignwood LPGA Classic, drawing many top golfers worldwide. It is worth noting that this course is “member invitation only”; therefore, players can enjoy the exclusive golf experience with luxurious amenities, professional services, and a private atmosphere. If you are looking for a premium golf and luxury lifestyle in Beijing, look no further!
9. The 27 Club (Jianjin Club)
- Address: Tian Jin Shi, China
- Designer: Beau Welling and Thomas McBroom
The 27 Club
Recipient of the 2017 World Golf Awards as China’s premier course, Tianjin Club stands out distinctly. Initially hosting 36 holes, the club transformed under the guidance of Beau Welling and Thomas McBroom, leading to a 27-hole marvel. The 27 Major champions, including Greg Norman, Y.E. Yang, and Vijay Singh, inspired its name, further enhancing its distinctiveness. Each champion infused their preferred features into the course design, giving every hole a distinct character while harmoniously integrating it into the three individual courses.
The 27 Club is divided into three 9-hole courses (North, South, and West), allowing players to flexibly combine them for an 18-hole golf round. With the total length of 7,331 yards, shady areas, clear lakes, and well-maintained large greens, the course offers excellent games. Notably, the course is “member invitation only”, promising a completely private atmosphere and premium services.
10. Dragon Lake Golf Club
- Address: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, South China
- Designer: Dick Davidson
Dragon Lake Golf Club
In the heart of Guangzhou, Dragon Lake Golf Club is a serene retreat. Its Scottish-inspired design, nestled amidst rolling hills and the serene Dragon Lake, offers a perfect juxtaposition of sport and relaxation. The course is a haven for those seeking a respite from city life while indulging in their passion for golf.
11. Shanqin Bay Golf Club
- Address: Hainan, China
- Designer: Bill Core
Shanqin Bay Golf Club
Hainan Island is dotted with numerous beautiful golf courses in China. Yet, standing unparalleled is the distant Shanqin Bay, crafted by Bill Core. This masterpiece is Asia’s singular cliffside golf course with sweeping sea views. The former Citic chairman, Wang Jun, conducted an aerial survey using a helicopter before chancing upon this gem of a location.
The idea of setting up a course in such a spot was met with scepticism by many. Core, however, managed to envision and draft a feasible design for the landscape in merely a week. Its proximity to the sea means players often grapple with the wind, adding to the course’s intricacy. Over time, external interventions have slightly altered its pristine nature, as evidenced by the 2017 decision to plant saplings along the 17th fairway to serve as a wind barrier.
12. Nanjing Zhongshan International Golf Club
- Address: Jiangsu, China
- Designer: Gary Player
Nanjing Zhongshan International Golf Club
Established in 1934 during the period when Nanjing served as the country’s capital, this club stands as one of the most venerable China golf courses. Gary Player masterfully crafted an 18-hole and a nine-hole course today, segmenting it into mountain, lake, and valley zones. Nestled within the picturesque surroundings of Purple Mountain, the course has been a preferred venue for prestigious tournaments, including the 2014 Summer Youth Olympic Games.
The sport of golf is growing significantly in China with many more golf courses being built in the country. If you know any other beautiful golf courses in China other than the ones mentioned above, don’t hesitate to share them with us by commenting on the box below. We are glad to hear from you.
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Hi,
what are the most popular golf buggy used in china
I would be greatful for this information as we are planning a trip there this year,
Kind regards
Paulmcgroarty
Dear Paul,
Thank you for reaching out! Golf buggies are commonly used across most courses in China, and the types available depend on the course you visit. Many top courses in China, such as Mission Hills (Shenzhen) or Spring City Golf & Lake Resort (Kunming), provide modern and well-maintained buggies from renowned brands like Club Car, EZ-GO, and Yamaha. These brands are known for their reliability and comfort, ensuring an enjoyable experience during your game.
If you’re planning your golf trip to China, let us know so that we can help arrange tee times, transportation, and accommodations for a seamless experience. Feel free to reach out with any other questions!
Best regards,
GolfLux Team
To Whom it May Concern,
I am interested in a golf vacation at Hainan, China. Maybe play 3-4 courses, stay at a 4 star hotel and full transportation to and from airport to hotel and golf courses. I will leave the golf course selection and hotels to you. Let me know the total cost. I can find my own airline to and from the USA.
Doug Johnston
Dear Doug Johnston,
Thank you so much for reaching out to us!
Our golf expert will contact you as soon as possible.
Best regards,
GolfLux Team.