Chupid little me, country bookie! I didn’t know such things existed. But in a country where toilets have just as many functions as a smart phone, I should not have been surprised to see that in Japan, there are robotics even for golf courses.

Bashofu Course is a funky little par-3 course in Nanjo, in the south east part of the island. Sitting atop a mountain, with panoramic sea views, the course may be short, but it is challenging.

But first, it was a challenge to figure out how to work the golf cart!

I sat on the cart in the driver’s seat, and pressed the green button to start. But the steering wheel wouldn’t turn. Sensing my panic as the cart started going, the course attendant ran over, and patiently showed me that I don’t have to steer.

Don’t have to steer?

‘No, don’t touch,’ he says, tapping the steering wheel.

He points to a white line going down the lane.

So the golf cart just follows the path, BY ITSELF? I don’t even have to steer, or tell it when or where to stop?

Sorry Google… I know you’re developing self driving cars, but Japanese golf courses are already ahead of you!

But it gets better. The carts don’t just drive themselves. Watch the video.

How cool is THAT?!?!

This is the perfect golf course for alcoholics who like to have a few cans during a game. After all, it is IMPOSSIBLE to crash the cart. So bring your beers and your crappy swing too!