Birdies’ Club:
Built to Last in Japan
Unmanned indoor golf facilities are booming in Japan, thanks to growing demand for flexible, all-day access and low-cost models. The golf simulator market in Japan is projected to grow significantly in the coming year — reflecting both the rising popularity of indoor golf and Japan’s appetite for tech-driven play.
From Real Estate to Swinging Straight
Launched in 2024 by Tokyo-based real estate development company, Shintoshikikaku Co, BIRDIES' CLUB was a new venture to inject value into its properties. The blueprint of that plan was framed by operational efficiency, golf technology, and a love of the game.
“We chose Trackman for two key reasons. First, it is globally recognized as the most accurate ball tracking technology. Second, it is the equipment most trusted by professional golfers.”
Atsunori Ikeda
Shintoshikikaku Co., Ltd. Business Planning Division 1, Metropolitan Area Business Department Manager
Forged with Passion and Technology
The strategy was led by Business Department Manager, Atsunori Ikeda, who has a passion for golf. Important to Ikeda was installing golf technology widely regarded as the most accurate in the industry and preferred by the best players.
Unstaffed =
Lower Costs, Higher Access
To reduce labor costs, which account for a large portion of operating expenses, BIRDIES’ CLUB adopted an unmanned indoor golf operation model. Unlike typical indoor golf facilities, the real estate firm owns its buildings, so it saves costs on not needing to pay rent. That benefits not only its business, but its customers too.
“When issues occur, we can simply call the support center, and they remotely operate the system for us. This has been a huge help in running our unmanned facility.”
Atsunori Ikeda
Shintoshikikaku Co., Ltd. Business Planning Division 1, Metropolitan Area Business Department Manager
Better tools mean better practice
Shot analysis and course mode remain the most popular features, and quickly mastering the system through intuitive operation are key Trackman simulator features that drive membership visits and usage. Ikeda says the most common feedback from customers is: “I came because you have Trackman.”
“It was crucial that the area had few indoor facilities and none with Trackman, making our offering unique.”
Atsunori Ikeda
Shintoshikikaku Co., Ltd. Business Planning Division 1, Metropolitan Area Business Department Manager
“I Came Because of Trackman”
Technology was a decisive factor in attracting customers to BIRDIES’ CLUB. According to Ikeda, many members have cited “Trackman” as their main reason for joining. When they opened their first Tokyo location, all membership slots were filled within a month.
Shot analysis and course mode remain the most popular features, and quickly mastering the system through intuitive operation are key Trackman simulator features that drive membership visits and usage. Ikeda says the most common feedback from customers is: “I came because you have Trackman.”
Turning Golf Practice Into Playtime
With Trackman’s immersive courses and real-time swing analysis, members experience golf practice that feels like real play. Many come to work on their swing and get ball and club data, but just as many enjoy the social side — simply golfing with friends or family.
“Trackman’s course mode uses drone-captured footage of each course, offering a more realistic round experience than other systems. This immersive feature is a major attraction for users.”
Atsunori Ikeda
Shintoshikikaku Co., Ltd. Business Planning Division 1, Metropolitan Area Business Department Manager
Breaking New Ground Beyond Tokyo
Since opening its first location just over a year ago, BIRDIES' CLUB has already expanded its indoor golf business into new locations in Tokyo and Kyoto. Ikeda expects the strong growth trend to continue well into the future, particularly given the rise in popularity of unstaffed indoor golf facilities in Japan.
“I think we’ll see an increase in unmanned indoor golf facilities in Japan in the future. I think Trackman will have a huge impact. It’s the most reliable launch monitor, so I think more and more people will install Trackman.”
Atsunori Ikeda
Shintoshikikaku Co., Ltd. Business Planning Division 1, Metropolitan Area Business Department Manager