C.H. Alison Redesign and Japan’s First 36-Hole Course

1930-

Alison surveying the course
with Rokuro Akaboshi (left) and Kinya Fujita (right)

In December 1930 world-renowned golf course architect, Charles Hugh Alison, surveyed the Kasumigaseki Country Club. He drew up designs and left his assistant, George Penglase, to oversee the course remodelling work.

The “Alison bunkers” created at this time on East No. 10, as well as other holes, gained a reputation for increasing the challenge for players.

Brochure commemorating completion of the 36-hole course

In response to requests from members, construction of a second course also began. With the opening of the West Course on June 12, 1932, the KCC became the first golf course in Japan with 36 holes.

By 1934 membership had surpassed 1,000, and the introduction of express services by Seibu Railway enabled members to fully enjoy the pleasures of golf and the time spent at the KCC.