He quickly earned a seed in his debut year on tour and won the 1997 “ANA Open” for his first victory.
Despite finishing second seven times, including the 1998 “Japan Pro Match Play” final, it took him 13 years to taste victory again at the “Canon Open” in 2010, where he beat Ryo Ishikawa by two strokes.
He served as the chairman of the players’ association for two years from 2005, and after turning 40, completed a two-year master’s course in medical research at Juntendo University.
In 2015, he tied for the lead on the second day of the “Mizuno Open”.
Dumbarnie Golf Links is a new golf course located in the Kingdom of Fife, Scotland. Designed by Clive Clark, the course offers 18 holes that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. It boasts stunning views of the Firth of Forth and the East Neuk of Fife. The course is challenging but fair, with wide fairways and deep bunkers. It features large greens with subtle undulations and offers a variety of shot options. It is a true Scottish links course, providing golfers with a unique and unforgettable experience. Dumbarnie is quickly becoming one of Scotland’s top golf destinations.
Carnoustie Golf Links is a historic golf course located in the Angus region of Scotland. It consists of 18 holes and is known for its natural terrain, with fairways blending the grasslands and links areas and greens featuring streams and bunkers. The 18th hole, famously known as “Carnoustie’s terror”, has been the site of many exciting moments during major tournaments. The course has hosted the British Open Golf Championship three times and is known for its strategic layout, making it a popular course among golfers. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience with stunning views of the Scottish coastline.
The Royal Liverpool Golf Club, also known as Hoylake, is located in Merseyside, England, and is one of the oldest seaside golf courses in the world. The course has hosted the British Open Golf Championship on 12 occasions, the last one in 2014. It was designed by legendary golf course architect Harry Colt and offers a challenging layout with deep bunkers and undulating greens. The course is surrounded by natural dunes and offers stunning views of the Dee Estuary. It is a true test of golfing skill and is known for its rich history and prestige as a venue for major championships.
Tenby Golf Club is a charming and picturesque golf course located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The course boasts stunning views of the Welsh coastline and is set within a beautiful natural landscape. The 18-hole course is challenging but fair, with undulating fairways and well-placed bunkers. The greens are well-maintained and offer a smooth putting surface. The course is suitable for all levels of golfer, from beginners to professionals. The clubhouse provides a warm and friendly atmosphere and offers delicious food and drink options. Tenby Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer looking to experience the natural beauty of Wales.
Pennard Golf Club, also known as “Links in the Sky,” is a unique and stunning golf course located on the Gower Peninsula in Wales. The 18-hole course is set on a cliff top with panoramic views of Three Cliffs Bay and the surrounding coastline. The course is challenging but enjoyable, with undulating fairways, tricky greens, and strategically placed bunkers. The club has a rich history and is one of the oldest in Wales. The clubhouse provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere with delicious food and drink options. Pennard Golf Club is a must-play for any golfer looking for a memorable experience in Wales.
Depart from Haneda Airport and travel to Edinburgh via London. Transfer by shuttle to St. Andrews. [Stay at St. Andrews]
Play at Dumbarnie Golf Links. AND get to know PRO. GOLFER Mr. Yokota and attend the welcome dinner party. [Stay at St. Andrews]
Play at Carnoustie. Afterward, fly to Manchester and travel by shuttle to Liverpool. [Stay at Liverpool]
Watch the second day of the Open Championship. [Stay at Liverpool]
Check out and travel to Tenby Golf Club by private car. Play at Tenby Golf Club.
Travel to Pennard Golf Club by private car. Play at Pennard Golf Club. Farewell and send-off party at night. *Note: If the pros have a practice round before the tournament, they cannot play with guests. In that case, guests will play on a different course without the pros. Please understand in advance.
Return home. ( Mr. Yokota will join the battle in the Senior Open Championship ).
Return to Japan
Three pros (including Mr. Yokota) will be accompanying the trip, and join different groups.
● Six nights of hotel accommodations as listed in the itinerary (one person per room)
● Companionship round with Mr. Yokota (Caddie is not included)
● Two dinner parties with Mr. Yokota Meals as listed in the itinerary (6 breakfasts, 0 lunches, 2 dinners, including the dinner parties)
● Private transportation as listed in the itinerary (to and from the airport and golf courses)
● Japanese-speaking guide or tour conductor from Japan
● Special overseas travel compensation fee.
Depart from Haneda to Edinburgh via London
Transfer to St. Andrews by private car 【Stay in St. Andrews】
Play at Castle Course 【Stay in St. Andrews】
Play at Old Course 【Stay in St. Andrews】
Play at Kingsbarns
Check out and play at Kingsbarns, then join the main tour
● Golf play fees on the itinerary (3 rounds, walking with caddie)
● Accommodations for 3 nights as listed in the itinerary (single occupancy)
● 4 meals (3 breakfasts, 0 lunches, 1 dinner) as listed in the itinerary
● Private transfers (to/from airport and golf courses) as listed in the itinerary
● Japanese-speaking guide or tour conductor from Japan
● Special compensation for overseas package tours
◉ Planned hotels to be used:
▶︎ Fairmont Hotel (St. Andrews)
▶︎ Radisson Red Hotel (Liverpool)
▶︎ Marriott Swansea Hotel (Wales)
[Note]: The hotels and golf courses to be used in the itinerary are subject to change at the time of implementation. Please be aware of this in advance.