日本遺産に認定されているワイン史料館
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Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery

4
·212 reviews·Koshu, Japan

Discover the art of Japanese winemaking at Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery, offering in-depth tours and tastings in Yamanashi.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

January mornings

Fewer crowds, intimate experience

CrowdLow
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日本遺産に認定されているワイン史料館

Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery

Best Time

January mornings

Fewer crowds, intimate experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the art of Japanese winemaking at Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery, offering in-depth tours and tastings in Yamanashi.

4
(212 reviews)

"An in-depth explanation that easily surpassed wine tours I’ve experienced in Europe. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book the Manager's Tour

This tour offers unparalleled depth and personal insight into winemaking.

🧀 Pair with Local Cheese

Enjoy local cheeses and spoils alongside your wine tasting for a complete experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

In-Depth Winery Tour

In-Depth Winery Tour

Winery

An immersive journey through Japanese winemaking, from grape to glass, with expert insights.

Reddit
Wine Tasting Experience

Wine Tasting Experience

Tasting Room

Sample a curated selection of local wines, including unique Yamanashi varietals.

Reddit
Wine Museum

Wine Museum

Museum Area

Explore the rich history and evolution of Japanese winemaking in an engaging exhibit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

The in-depth winery tour, led by the manager, is highly recommended for its detailed insights into grape cultivation and winemaking. Booking ahead ensures you don't miss this exceptional experience, especially if you're visiting during peak seasons. Reddit

Consider Off-Season Visits

While the gardens are beautiful in warmer months, visiting in January means bare vines but still flowing wine. You might also find fewer crowds, making for a more intimate tasting experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
January mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, intimate experience
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Blooming gardens, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another incredible dinner in Wunderbrunnen with this great Chateau Margaux 1959 ❤️🍷#wine #vino #wein
@restaurantwunderbrunnen
50.5K likes • 1.8M views

🎯 Book the Manager's Tour

This tour offers unparalleled depth and personal insight into winemaking. Reddit

🧀 Pair with Local Cheese

Enjoy local cheeses and spoils alongside your wine tasting for a complete experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Wine tasting in Yamanashi

🚗 Easy Highway Access

Accessible via highway bus from Tokyo, making it a convenient day trip. Reddit

🍇 Try Local Varietals

Don't miss Yamanashi Muscat Bailey A and Hosaka Muscat Bailey A reds. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book the Manager's Tour

This tour offers unparalleled depth and personal insight into winemaking. Reddit

🧀 Pair with Local Cheese

Enjoy local cheeses and spoils alongside your wine tasting for a complete experience. Reddit

🚗 Easy Highway Access

Accessible via highway bus from Tokyo, making it a convenient day trip. Reddit

🍇 Try Local Varietals

Don't miss Yamanashi Muscat Bailey A and Hosaka Muscat Bailey A reds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(212 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery for its exceptional winery tours, offering deep insights into Japanese winemaking. The friendly staff and pleasant grounds are also frequently mentioned positives. While some found the wines not 'incredibly impressive,' the overall experience, hospitality, and educational value are highly rated, making it a worthwhile destination for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. Reddit

"Visit on 6th January 2025

This is one of the highlights of our trip during our visit to Yamanashi area. We were also the only two people doing the tour that day.

The manager himself guided us through the tour, providing an in-depth explanation of everything, from the types of grapes grown in the region and the differences between Japanese and European grape varieties. He also explained how Yamanashi’s unique valley landscape creates the perfect conditions for cultivating grapes, explained the rich history of Japanese wines, and walked us through the entire winemaking process — from how grapes are selected to fermentation and aging. It was detailed, engaging, and easily surpassed wine tours I’ve experienced in Europe.

I highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves wine or is curious about learning more about it. Priced at ¥15,000 per person for the tour but note it is absolutely worth for the depth of knowledge, unique experience, and warm welcome we received. The wine selection was excellent and worth its price. Service and hospitality was also a 10/10.

A must-visit for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike!"

Tashi Yeow

"Fun afternoon of wine, cheese and other spoils! Well worth the visit out from Tokyo on the highway bus! Great to wander through the streets. We came in January, so the vines were bare. The wine was still flowing !!"

Aidan Le-Devenish

"Visited this winery with friends as our first stop on our trip. The staff was very friendly and helpful and gave a great lunch recommendation. We chose the recommended tasting which was around 2,000 yen each and included 3 wines (2 whites & a red). The wines were not incredibly impressive but the winery itself had a lovely patio and garden that i'm sure is beautiful in the warmer months. I know this winery has a long established history in the area but we did not learn much about it through the staff or any handouts so cannot speak to that."

Ashley Herbert

What People Like

In-depth winery tours
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Beautiful winery grounds

What People Dislike

Wines not always impressive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is by highway bus directly from Tokyo, which offers easy access to the Katsunuma area. Alternatively, you can take a train to Katsunuma-budōkyō Station and then a short taxi ride or local bus to the winery. Reddit

Yes, parking is available for visitors. This is a good option if you are driving from nearby areas or have rented a car. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a combination of public transport and taxis, or consider a guided tour that includes transportation. Renting a car can offer flexibility, but be mindful of designated drivers. Reddit

Absolutely! Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, easily reachable by highway bus. Reddit

While there are local buses, they can be infrequent. Taxis are readily available and recommended for shorter distances between wineries or from the train station. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The in-depth winery tour is priced at ¥15,000 per person, which is considered well worth the cost for the comprehensive experience and knowledge gained. Reddit

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking in advance is recommended, especially for the guided tour. This ensures availability and a smoother experience. Reddit

The recommended tasting typically includes three wines, often a mix of whites and reds, for around 2,000 yen. Reddit

Yes, the winery offers different tasting menus, allowing you to sample a variety of their wines. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour and tasting schedules. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Many visitors highlight the in-depth winery tour led by the manager as a standout experience, offering detailed insights into Japanese winemaking. Reddit

Yes, the winery has lovely grounds, including a patio and garden, which are particularly beautiful in warmer months. Reddit

Typically, wineries of this caliber have a shop where you can purchase bottles of wine, local products, and souvenirs. Reddit

Expect a welcoming and informative atmosphere, with friendly and helpful staff eager to share their knowledge about wine. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, wineries often host seasonal events. Checking their official channels is recommended for any special happenings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the winery itself might not have a full restaurant, they often offer wine pairings with cheese and other small bites. Staff can also provide excellent lunch recommendations in the surrounding area. Reddit

Yes, the Katsunuma area is known for its local cuisine, and staff at the winery can often recommend nearby eateries that complement the wine region experience. Reddit

Local Japanese dishes, as well as cheeses and charcuterie, are excellent pairings for the diverse range of wines produced in Yamanashi. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, some wineries allow picnics in designated areas. It's best to inquire directly with the winery about their policy. Reddit

Look for dishes that incorporate local produce and ingredients, often paired with the region's renowned wines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the picturesque vineyards (especially in warmer months), the elegant winery architecture, and the beautifully presented wine tastings. Reddit

Photography policies can vary. It's generally permitted in public areas like the gardens and tasting rooms, but check for any restrictions inside the production facilities or museum. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for vineyard shots. Midday can be good for capturing the winery's architecture. Reddit

The patio and garden areas offer lovely backdrops. If the vines are bare in winter, focus on the winery's structure and the surrounding landscape. Reddit

Photography during the tour might be restricted in certain areas for safety or operational reasons. Always ask your guide before taking pictures. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery is primarily geared towards adults interested in wine, families can still enjoy a visit. The winery grounds, especially the gardens, offer space for children to explore (under supervision). The wine museum might also hold some visual interest. It's advisable to focus on the scenic aspects and perhaps a brief tasting for the adults while keeping the children engaged with the surroundings. Reddit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. While the main tour is detailed and adult-focused, the general atmosphere of exploring the winery and its grounds can be pleasant for a family outing. Pack snacks and drinks for younger children, as dining options might be more limited or adult-oriented. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the recommended tasting menu at around 2,000 yen offers a good value way to sample the wines without committing to a full bottle. While the premium manager's tour is ¥15,000, opting for a standard tasting and exploring the grounds can still provide a fulfilling experience. Reddit

Utilizing the highway bus from Tokyo is an economical transportation option. Once in the Katsunuma area, walking between nearby wineries or using local buses (if available and cost-effective) can help manage costs. Packing your own snacks or planning a picnic lunch can also save money on dining expenses. Reddit

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery is a must-visit for serious wine lovers. The in-depth winery tour, especially when led by the manager, provides an unparalleled educational experience into Japanese viticulture and winemaking techniques. The opportunity to taste locally grown varietals like Muscat Bailey A is a significant draw. Reddit

Pay close attention to the nuances of the wines, noting how the Yamanashi terroir influences their character. The museum offers historical context, enriching your understanding of Japan's wine journey. Don't hesitate to ask staff detailed questions; they are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Japanese Winemaking at Château Mercian

Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery is a cornerstone of Japan's burgeoning wine industry, particularly in the Yamanashi prefecture. The winery prides itself on a deep understanding of terroir, meticulously selecting grapes that thrive in the unique valley landscape of Yamanashi. This region's climate and soil conditions are ideal for cultivating both indigenous Japanese grape varieties and select European ones. Visitors on the in-depth tour gain a comprehensive understanding of how these factors influence the final wine. Reddit

The winemaking process here is a blend of tradition and innovation. From the careful selection of grapes to the precise fermentation and aging techniques, every step is managed to produce high-quality wines. The manager's tour, in particular, delves into the nuances of Japanese winemaking, differentiating it from European methods and highlighting the rich history of wine production in the area. This educational aspect makes the visit more than just a tasting; it's an immersion into a fascinating cultural and agricultural practice. Reddit

Visitors often express that the tour surpasses expectations, offering a level of detail and engagement rarely found elsewhere. The wines themselves, including local specialties like Yamanashi Muscat Bailey A and Hosaka Muscat Bailey A, are a testament to the winery's dedication to quality and regional expression. Reddit

Experiencing Wine Tasting and Local Flavors

The wine tasting experience at Château Mercian Katsunuma Winery is a highlight for many visitors. The winery offers various tasting menus, with the recommended tasting typically featuring three wines—often a mix of crisp whites and robust reds—for around 2,000 yen. This provides an excellent opportunity to sample the diverse range of wines produced, from delicate whites to flavorful reds. Reddit

Beyond just tasting, visitors are encouraged to enhance their experience by pairing wines with local cheeses and other delicacies. This culinary aspect adds another layer to the appreciation of the wines, allowing guests to discover complementary flavors. The winery staff are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, often providing excellent recommendations for lunch or dinner in the surrounding Katsunuma area, ensuring a well-rounded gastronomic journey. Reddit

While the gardens are particularly stunning in warmer months, the winery remains a worthwhile destination even in winter. The vines may be bare, but the wine continues to flow, offering a cozy and intimate tasting experience. The overall hospitality and the quality of the wine selection contribute to a memorable visit for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Reddit

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