8.41

Lanhai International (Yangtze Dunes)

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
2011
GRASS
Zoysia
SEASON
March–November
CART TYPE
Not Allowed
avg. Price
$
250
?
CADDIES
Available
Unknown
Type
Links
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
9.5
City
Shanghai

Score

8.41
Design
40%
8.7
Conditions
25%
8.5
Desirability
15%
7.7
Scenery
10%
8.1
Fun
5%
8.0
Uniqueness
5%
9.3

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 130

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 9.5

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
200
$
250
$
300
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Yangtze Dunes is one of the very few links-style layouts in mainland China—its 2018 renovation removed all cart paths, creating a walking-only experience rarely found in the region.

About

Lanhai International's Yangtze Dunes, originally designed by Jack Nicklaus and later reimagined by Michael Clayton and Ashley Mead in 2018, is a rare links course in Asia. Set on the sandy alluvial land of Chongming Island near Shanghai, its walking-only layout features vast sandy waste areas, dramatic bunkers, and greens nestled into artificial dunes, offering a unique, firm test reminiscent of the British Isles' coastal classics.

Caddie Tip

Be prepared for firm conditions and ever-present wind, making club selection crucial. Play smart from the tee to avoid the sprawling sandy wastes. On approach shots, favor running the ball onto greens, as surfaces are designed for links-style ground play. Trust local caddies for green reads; the subtle undulations can fool even expert eyes.

The Main Challenge

The greatest challenge at Yangtze Dunes is mastering play in the ever-present wind. The immense sandy waste areas, coupled with undulating fairways and subtly sloping greens, demand strategic planning and precise execution on every shot. Recovery from deep, rough-edged bunkers is demanding, and green complexes require deft touch and excellent reading skills.

The Good

Golfers rave about the authentic links experience—rare in Asia—highlighting the walkability, broad sandy features, wild bunkering, and dynamic green settings nestled deep in the dunes. The course’s open front nine and more intimate, corridor-like back nine provide variety and memorable tests. Architects’ strong connection to the land is felt throughout the round.

The Not So Good

The course’s exposed location makes it vulnerable to wind, which some players find excessive or fatiguing. Others note that bunker maintenance can lag after storms, and the open sandy areas may accumulate debris or require raking. The walking-only approach is applauded, though less fit golfers sometimes wish for limited cart access.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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Could not find info

Clubhouse

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The modern, well-equipped clubhouse offers locker rooms, a high-end restaurant and bar, meeting rooms, pro shop, and relaxation lounges. Stunning views of the course and river delta add to the appeal. Comprehensive guest services and excellent caddy support enhance the members-only experience.

Practice Facilities

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Comprehensive practice facilities include a spacious driving range with grass and mat tees, multiple short game areas for chipping and pitching, a dedicated putting green mirroring course contours, and on-site coaching services. The setting allows players to practice in windy conditions similar to what’s found on the course.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

China