Park Golf is a leisure sport that combines elements of traditional golf and croquet, designed to be simple, enjoyable, and accessible for players of all ages. It was invented in Makubetsu, Hokkaido, Japan in 1983 and has since spread internationally. The game is played on a shorter course — typically two 9-hole courses to make a full 18 holes — where the goal is the same as golf: complete each hole in as few strokes as possible. Unlike traditional golf, Park Golf uses only one club and one ball, and courses are shorter with holes usually no longer than 100 meters. It emphasizes fun, nature, and social play, making it ideal for families, beginners, and seniors alike.
To play Park Golf, each participant tees off from a designated area and strikes the ball toward the hole using a single Park Golf club. Play continues from where the ball comes to rest until it is holed. Players count their strokes per hole, and the competitor with the fewest total strokes wins. The order of play generally goes from the furthest ball from the hole inward. Most rounds take around 1–2 hours to complete, depending on group size and skill level. A round of Park Golf is played in groups of four or less players.
Park Golf requires minimal equipment:
One Park Golf club — shorter, lighter, and with a flat striking face tailored for ground play.
One Park Golf ball — larger (around 60 mm in diameter) and made of durable synthetic material, designed to roll efficiently on grass.
A tee — used only for the first shot of each hole.
Courses often provide clubs and balls for rental, making it easy for newcomers to play without owning gear.
The core rules are simple and player-friendly:
Play is conducted with one club and one ball per player.
A swing that misses the ball does not count as a stroke if the ball doesn’t move.
Balls must be played from where they rest, except in relief situations.
If a ball goes out of bounds, penalty strokes are added and the ball is dropped near where it left the course. Two penalty strokes are added for a ball going out of bounds whereas other penalties have only one stroke added. Please refer to the full Rules for more details.
The player with the fewest strokes at the end of a round wins.
Players are also expected to self-referee and follow fair play principles.
Park Golf etiquette focuses on safety, respect, and pace of play. Players should:
Wait to tee off until the group ahead is out of range.
Respect other players by avoiding distractions during their swings.
Repair divots or ground marks where possible.
Keep noise levels moderate and avoid unnecessary delays.
Be courteous by letting faster groups play through when needed.
These practices help maintain a friendly environment and ensure everyone enjoys the course and company.
Park Golf is truly inclusive, welcoming people of all ages and abilities. Because it uses minimal gear and has simple rules, both beginners and seasoned players can enjoy the game without prior golf experience. The physical demands are light, which also makes it especially popular with older adults, families, and community groups.
A standard round of Park Golf (18 holes) generally takes about 1 to 2 hours to play, depending on factors like skill level, group size, and course layout. Because courses are shorter and gameplay is simpler compared to traditional golf, it’s an ideal option for a quick, social outdoor activity.
Dedicated Park Golf courses can be found in parks and recreational areas worldwide, especially in the United States and Japan. Many community courses are being developed, and some are part of recreational parks or private facilities. As the sport grows, more venues continue to offer Park Golf, making it easier to play locally or while traveling.
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