Kobushi at Minakami Kogen Golf Links occupies mountainous terrain in Tone, Gunma Prefecture, in the highlands north of Tokyo. Arnold Palmer designed the course during his firm's active period of international work in Japan, where Palmer Design Company completed numerous projects from the 1970s through the 1990s. The routing takes advantage of the natural elevation changes characteristic of this region near the Tanigawa mountain range, with the course set among forested slopes that provide both scenic backdrop and strategic definition to the holes. The layout reflects Palmer's design approach of creating playable yet challenging golf that works with existing landforms rather than imposing dramatic reshaping. Holes move through varied elevations, with doglegs and approach angles that reward thoughtful positioning from the tee. The greens typically feature moderate undulation, and bunkers are placed to frame landing areas and green complexes in Palmer's characteristic style. Water features appear on select holes where the mountain topography naturally accommodates them. Minakami Kogen operates as a resort facility in a region known for hot springs and outdoor recreation. The course serves both local members and visitors drawn to the area's seasonal appeal, with the surrounding highlands offering particularly striking views during autumn foliage. The climate and elevation mean the course follows a seasonal calendar typical of mountain golf in central Japan, with conditions varying considerably between spring opening and late autumn.