Katsunuma Winery

Wine-making in Japan began in the 19th century and is now produced in various regions across the country. Situated in the Yamanashi Prefecture, Katsunuma lies within picturesque countryside at the eastern part of Kofu Valley and to the north of Mount Fuji.
The Katsunuma Winery was established in 1937 and lies at the very heart of the region, easily accessible as a day trip from Tokyo. The main building is styled on the traditional architecture of Japanese private houses. For three generations, the Katsunuma Winery have cultivated grapes in an area covering more than 70 acres, with 70% of their harvest produced from indigenous Koshu grapes. 
Visitors can tour the cellars where the wine is stored in barrels for fermentation and the bottling process is conducted. The highlight for many of course is the wine tasting, with the Katsunuma Winery Co. producing their very own ‘Aruga Branca’ range.

Practical Info

The Katsunuma Winery can be reached from Tokyo by catching a train to Katsunuma-budokyo Station. The journey takes around an hour and 30 minutes. The best time to visit is October when the vines are laden with grapes.