Els at Mission Hills Golf Club - Shenzhen

The Els Course at Mission Hills Golf Club in Shenzhen represents Ernie Els's design philosophy translated to the subtropical landscape of southern China. Part of the larger Mission Hills complex that spans the border region between Shenzhen and Dongguan, this course occupies terrain characterized by the rolling hills and lush vegetation typical of Guangdong Province. Els, working as both architect and touring professional during the course's development in the early 2000s, brought his preference for strategic options and playable challenge to a site that allows for varied elevation changes and natural water features.

The routing takes advantage of the property's topography, with holes that move through valleys and across ridgelines. Els's design approach here emphasizes width off the tee with strategic bunkering that rewards thoughtful positioning, reflecting his own playing style that valued accuracy and course management. The subtropical climate supports dense growth and requires careful maintenance of sightlines and playing corridors. Water comes into play on several holes, both as natural streams and constructed features that define risk-reward scenarios.

Mission Hills Shenzhen has hosted professional events on the Asian tours, benefiting from the resort's comprehensive practice facilities and the course's ability to test skilled players while remaining accessible to members and resort guests. The club operates within China's golf infrastructure, serving both local membership and international visitors to the Shenzhen economic zone.