1. What makes Yamanashi’s wine region special?
The Koshu Valley in Yamanashi is Japan’s leading wine-producing region, The cities of Katsunuma and Enzan are known for their unique climate, which is ideal for growing high-quality grapes. Located only 90 minutes from Tokyo and situated between Mt Fuji and the Minami Southern Alps, the region offers picturesque vineyards and a rich history of winemaking dating back centuries. The region’s famous Koshu wine, a crisp white wine, is renowned for its delicate flavors.
2. Are private winery tours available in Yamanashi?
Yes, all of our tours are fully guided and we offer exclusive private customized winery tours in the Koshu Valley of Yamanashi, tailored to your preferences and style. Whether you’re looking for an intimate wine-tasting experience or a guided tour of multiple wineries, our tours can be customized to fit your schedule and needs.
3. How long do wine tasting tours in Yamanashi last?
The duration of a private winery tour typically last about 5 hours, starting at 10:30 am and ending at around 4:00pm depending the pace of the tours and on the number of wineries visited and the wine tasting experiences. We usually offer full-day tours to 5 wineries with all tasting and luncheon included. If you’d like to explore more vineyards and wineries and enjoy a longer culinary experience that can be arranged and customized for you as well with our 2 day and 3 day custom winery and wine tasting tours.
4. Do I need to speak Japanese to enjoy a wine tour in Yamanashi?
No, our tours are available in English and our guides are fluent in English and Japanese. We ensure that foreign visitors can fully enjoy the experience without language barriers.
5. What wines can I expect to taste on a Yamanashi wine tour?
During the tour, you’ll sample a variety of local Koshu wines, including the region’s famous Koshu wine, Muscat Baily A, Yama Budo, Yama Savignon, Black Queen, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and more. Each winery has its unique offerings, allowing you to taste both traditional and innovative wine styles crafted and blended in the region.
6. What are the best winery tours in Japan?
Some of the best winery tours in Japan include tours in regions like Yamanashi, Hokkaido, and Nagano. These regions are known for their unique climates and produce exceptional wines. Winery Tours Japan offers private guided tastings, vineyard walks, local bilingual English speaking guide, and opportunities to meet local winemakers.
7. Are food pairings included in the wine tours?
Some of our tours include food pairings, such as a delicious local Japanese luncheon paired with Japanese wine. Some of our tours can be customized to include a gourmet lunch option that pair perfectly with your wine tasting experience.
9. Can I buy wine during the tour and have it shipped home?
Yes, you can purchase wine directly from the wineries. Many of the wines are only available for sale at the wineries. Our guides can assist you with the purchasing and possible shipping or transport process.
10. Are there any special wine events or festivals in Yamanashi I should visit?
Yamanashi is home to several wine festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Yamanashi Wine Festival, held annually in October. These events offer tastings, live entertainment, and a chance to meet winemakers. Our tours can be scheduled to coincide with these special occasions for an unforgettable experience.
11. What is the best time of year to visit Yamanashi for a wine tour?
The best time for a winery tour in Yamanashi is during the spring (March to May) when the vineyards are in full bloom, and during the autumn harvest season (September to November). Both seasons offer beautiful views and an opportunity to taste fresh, seasonal wines. Although other times are quieter with fewer tourist and also offer an excellent wine tasting experience.
12. Are wine tasting tours suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a beginner, our private wine tasting tours cater to all levels of experience. Our knowledgeable bilingualguides will explain the wine-making process, the characteristics of different wines, and provide recommendations based on your tastes.
13. What should I wear on a wine tasting tour in Yamanashi?
We recommend wearing comfortable casual elegant clothing and shoes, as some wineries may involve walking through vineyards. Also, dressing in layers is a good idea, as temperatures can vary throughout the day, especially in the spring and autumn.
14. Can I customize my wine tour itinerary in Yamanashi?
Yes! Our private wine tours are fully customizable. Whether you’d like to focus on a specific type of wine, visit certain wineries, or add extra activities like a scenic lunch with a view, or sightseeing to natural or historical sights, we can tailor the tour to your preferences and style. A half day wine tasting and a half day sightseeing is a wonderful way to experience Yamanashi. Or longer 1 day sightseeing and 1 day wine tasting tours can be arranged for your particular interest and style.
15. Are there options for family-friendly winery tours in Yamanashi?
Yes, we offer family-friendly options where children can enjoy the beautiful vineyard landscapes, learn about winemaking, and participate in activities like grape picking (seasonal). While wine tasting is strictly reserved for adults, the tours are enjoyable for everyone.
16. Can I book a private single traveler tour?
Yes Single traveler private tours can be arranged to meet your particular style and interest.
17. Are the tours self guided?
No the tours are not self guided. All of our tours are fully guided. Our guides are local bilingual Japanese English speaking who live in the area.
18. How do I get to the pick up place in Yamanashi?
Most of the wineries we visit are in the Katsunuma / Enzan wine making area of Yamanashi. This area is located in the Koshu valley about 90 minutes from Tokyo. It is easily accessed by express train or highway bus from Shinjuku station. We highly recommend coming to the Koshu valley by express train for the fastest and most reliable, comfortable and fun way to get here. We dont recommend coming by car or van as Japan’s notorious traffic can add hours each way to your travel time. You can easily catch the “Super Azusa” or “Kaiji” express trains from Shinjuku station and arrive in the Koshu valley in about 90 minutes. Comfortably enjoy the scenic views of the countryside and Mt. Fuji from the train as you wind your way through the mountains and valleys on your way to a fun day of wine tasting here in the Koshu Valley. If you have any questions about transport to the Koshu Valley please let us know.
19. Can you tell me more about your tours, the group size, prices and age to participate?
All of our winery and wine tasting tours in Japan are scheduled on demand from our customers, and each tour is unique, private and customized for your particular interest and desire.
Our tours are flexible and relaxed and allow you to enjoy tasting Japanese Koshu wine at your own leisure.
Prices listed on home page are per person and are for 2 – 5 person booking. For single person private tour booking rate please inquiry for the current rate. Normal group size is 2-5 person, for groups 5-10 person please inquiry for details. Group size is limited to 10 person max. Tour schedule is subject to change due to unexpected circumstance, natural disaster, severe weather conditions, etc.
Must be 20+yrs to participate. Drinking and driving, and underage drinking is prohibited by Japanese law. Drivers of automobiles, motorcycles(including passengers), or bicycles are not allowed to consume alcohol during the tour. Please do not drink while pregnant or breastfeeding. Please enjoy the tour by drinking moderately.
20. How do I book a winery tour in Japan?
All of our tours offer online booking and can be reserved in advance for a more seamless experience.
Booking a winery tour in Japan can be done online through Winery Tours Japan contact page.
If you have any other questions please contact us and let us know.