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 over 60 wineries and picturesque vineyards with a rich history of winemaking dating back centuries. The region’s famous Koshu wine, is a crisp white wine, and is renowned for its delicate flavors. The main white wines of Yamanashi are: Koshu, Delaware, Chardonnay, Niagara, Semillon. Yamanashi also produces The main red wines are: Muscat Baily A, Kyoho, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Adriondac, Black Queen, Baily Alicante A, Kai Noire, Cabernet Franc.
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 private guided tour of multiple wineries, our private tours with a local English speaking guide can be customized to fit your schedule and needs.
3. How long do wine tasting tours in Yamanashi last?
A private winery tour in Yamanashi usually lasts around 5 hours, typically starting at 10:30 am and wrapping up around 4:00 pm. The exact timing can vary depending on the pace of the tour, the number of wineries you visit, and the wine tasting experiences along the way. Our standard full-day tour visits 5 fantastic wineries, with tastings and a delicious lunch included. But if you’re craving more, we also offer custom 2-day and 3-day tours, giving you the chance to explore even more of Yamanashi’s stunning vineyards and enjoy longer, more immersive wine and culinary experiences. Let us know if you’d like us to customize the perfect wine adventure just for you!
4. Do I need to speak Japanese to enjoy a wine tour in Yamanashi?
No, our tours are available in English and our local 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 Yamanashi Winery Tour, you’ll sample a variety of local Koshu wines, including the region’s famous Koshu white wine, Muscat Baily A, Yama Budo, Yama Sauvignon, 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 their own exceptional and unique wines. Winery Tours Japan offers customized private guided Yamanashi winery tours and tastings and vineyard walks. Our local bilingual English speaking guide allows you the chance to meet local winemakers and even enjoy a private tasting with them.
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 Yamanashi Wine 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 guide 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 Yamanashi Wine 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 Yamanashi winery tour 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 Yamanashi wine tasting tours cater to all levels of experience. Our knowledgeable local bilingual guides will explain the wine-making process, the characteristics of different wines, and provide recommendations based on your interest.
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 Yamanashi wine tour itinerary?
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 5-8 person please inquiry for details. Group size is limited to 8 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.