Suzhou Jinji Lake International Golf Club

Suzhou Jinji Lake International Golf Club (苏州金鸡湖国际高尔夫俱乐部) is a prestigious members-only golf club located in the scenic Suzhou Industrial Park (苏州工业园区), positioned elegantly between Jinji Lake (金鸡湖) and Dushu Lake (独墅湖). Designed by legendary golfer Gary Player (加里·普莱耶) and managed by the global IMG Management Group, the club offers a world-class golfing experience that blends Links, Wetland, and Forest Parkland styles, making it a standout destination for golf enthusiasts seeking privacy, luxury, and excellence.

Overview and Location

• Address: No. 2 Guobin Road (国宾路2号), Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
• Opening Date: June 3, 2006
• Design & Management: Designed by Gary Player, fully managed by IMG Management Group
• Course Layout: 27 holes (three 9-hole courses: Links, Wetland, Forest Parkland)
• Par & Size: Par 108; total area approximately 1,740 acres
• Course Length: 18-hole championship combination totals 7,396 yards; Forest 9-hole course is a lit night course
• Grass: Greens – Bentgrass A-4; high-standard fairways
• GPS & Technology: All 27 holes equipped with GPS-enabled golf carts
• Contact: 0512-62888866 (booking), 0512-62886868 (membership)
• Membership System: Strictly members-only (MBI invitation + interview); non-members must be accompanied by members; walk-in guests not accepted

The club’s location ensures convenient access: about 15 minutes from Suzhou city center and 1 hour from Shanghai, with easy connections via Jinji Lake Avenue and Modern Avenue. Public transit is also feasible via Metro Line 1 to Cultural Expo Center Station, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride.

Clubhouse and Facilities

The 10,000-square-meter lighthouse-style clubhouse is designed with elegance and functionality across three levels:

• Dining & Bars: Chinese and Western restaurants, a lounge with a cigar bar, displaying Gary Player memorabilia
• Pro Shop & Locker Rooms: Equipped with high-end golf gear and luxurious changing facilities
• Practice & Teaching: Full professional driving range, putting greens, chipping and bunker areas; offers private lessons, youth academy courses, and night golfing on the Forest 9-hole course
• Event & Business Services: Exclusive parking, event hosting, corporate banquets, and member gatherings

The club ensures privacy and exclusivity while offering the highest standard of service, making it an ideal choice for professional golfers, VIPs, and golf aficionados.

History and Vision

Since its inception in 2006, Suzhou Jinji Lake Golf Club has upheld a philosophy of providing an exceptional golfing experience exclusively for its members. The club emphasizes belonging, tradition, and community, curating a variety of seasonal tournaments and events to enhance member engagement.

Signature events include:

• Spring Cup: An English-inspired event along the Jinji Lake shoreline, immersing members in classic British golf traditions
• Skirt Swing Summer Cup: A vibrant summer tournament combining leisure and competitive play
• Family Activities: Weekend outdoor movie nights, Christmas events, and other curated experiences designed to foster a sense of home and community

Through these events, members are not only challenged on the course but also feel a deep connection to the club’s culture and history.

Membership and Exclusivity

The MBI invitation system ensures that new members are aligned with the club’s high standards and philosophy. Prospective members must:

1. Receive an invitation from an existing member
2. Undergo a comprehensive interview with the Membership Qualification Committee
3. Demonstrate understanding of the club’s regulations, culture, and service expectations

This rigorous process preserves the integrity of the members-only environment while maintaining the club’s elite status.

Tournaments and Achievements

Suzhou Jinji Lake Golf Club has a rich history of hosting prestigious tournaments:

• VOLVO China Open 2010: The 16th edition marked the first European and Asian Tour co-sanctioned event in mainland China, showcasing world-class facilities and organizational excellence
• Member Competitions: Regular internal tournaments provide members with platforms to enhance skills and test their abilities in competitive settings

The club is renowned for combining high-level competition with an eco-conscious approach, making it a model for sustainable golf operations in China.

Environmental Leadership

Suzhou Jinji Lake Golf Club was the first golf course in mainland China to achieve GEO (Golf Environment Organization) certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental sustainability. Key initiatives include:

• Careful maintenance of natural wetlands and green spaces
• Eco-friendly irrigation and course management practices
• Integration of local Jiangsu natural landscapes into course design

The club successfully underwent GEO recertification in 2014, reinforcing its status as a pioneer in eco-conscious golf development in China.

Best Seasons and Playing Tips

• Optimal Seasons: March to June and September to November for mild climate and comfortable play
• Summer Tips: Early tee times recommended; night golfing available on Forest 9-hole course
• Winter Tips: Dress warmly; green speeds may be slightly adjusted
• Dress Code: Collared shirts, golf pants/shorts, soft-spike golf shoes; jeans and sandals prohibited
• Booking: Members must reserve 24 hours in advance; guests require prior notification and accompaniment by a member

Suzhou Jinji Lake International Golf Club offers an exclusive, world-class golf experience in the heart of Suzhou. With Gary Player’s signature design, IMG’s professional management, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, the club delivers unmatched golfing excellence in a scenic lakeside setting. For those seeking privacy, luxury, and a sense of belonging, Jinji Lake Golf Club remains a top-tier destination for elite golfers and members of China’s high-end golf community.

Chinese Name:苏州金鸡湖国际高尔夫俱乐部 (27洞)
Chinese Address:苏州苏华路2号国际大厦
Tel:0512-62888866