Harvest and Sip: How to Enjoy a Grape Picking and Winery Tour in Japan

Open up a bottle of wine to celebrate—but what if you could take part in the entire process, starting with picking the very ingredient, the grape? In Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, this experience is doable. Known as the "Wine Capital of Japan," Yamanashi is home to lush vineyards and some of the country’s best winemaking traditions. 

Did you know? Yamanashi's climate is perfect for grape growing. The area enjoys plenty of sunshine, good rainfall, and fertile volcanic soil from nearby Mount Fuji, creating the ideal conditions for vineyards to thrive. The prefecture produces over 40% of Japan’s domestic wine. 

If you're planning to explore these vineyards, here’s everything you need to know.

1. How to Pick Grapes Like a Professional

In Japanese vineyards, grape picking is an organized activity for visitors to enjoy. When you arrive, you will be given scissors and a basket. The grape bunches are protected with small paper bags to keep them safe from insects, rain, and sunlight. Farms usually have staff ready to teach visitors how to properly cut the stems without damaging the vines.

The best grapes to pick are those with deep, consistent coloring. This is a sign that they are ripe and ready to eat. Koshu and Muscat Bailey A are the most common ones in Japan and are known for their balanced sweetness. 

Pro Tip: Bring your own bag or container if the farm allows, as some charge extra for packaging. Always follow farm rules to help protect the vines for future harvests.

2. Taste Grapes Straight from the Vine

Many farms allow visitors to taste the grapes they pick, which would let you learn how grapes differ in flavor and texture. Japanese grapes, like Koshu, are grown for both eating and winemaking. These grapes have a mild sweetness and slight citrus notes, making them a great snack.

The grape skin can sometimes be thick, which is why people prefer peeling it before eating. Farmers use methods like controlled watering and careful pruning to enhance the taste and quality of the grapes.

Pro Tip: If you're visiting with children, check if the farm offers kid-friendly grape varieties or grape juice tasting. Some farms also have shaded picnic areas for families.

3. The Winemaking Process

Once the grapes are picked, they are sorted and sent to wineries for processing, which involves crushing the grapes, fermenting the juice, and storing it in barrels for aging. In Yamanashi, the barrels are made of oak, which adds specific flavors to the wine. Oak barrels are commonly used worldwide for their ability to let small amounts of oxygen interact with the wine, enhancing its taste over time.

In Japan, winemakers preserve the natural flavors of Koshu grapes, which are light and refreshing. Visiting a winery offers a close look at these processes, and many wineries include guided tours to explain each step.

Pro Tip: If you’re interested in the science of winemaking, ask about fermentation techniques. Wineries are happy to share insights, especially about how the Koshu grape is unique to Japan.

4. Wine Tasting for Beginners

Wine tasting is a common activity in wineries. In Yamanashi, you can try Koshu white wines, which are light and pair well with Japanese dishes. The tasting experience includes small pours of several wines, allowing you to understand how different production methods and aging processes affect the flavor.

Begin by observing the color of the wine and noting its clarity. Swirl the glass gently to release the aroma, and take a small sip to let the flavors settle on your palate. Don’t worry if you’re new to wine tasting, the staff will guide you through it. Most wineries also offer non-alcoholic options like grape juice, which is made from the same high-quality grapes.

Pro Tip: Limit yourself to small sips if you’re trying multiple wines. Some wineries offer crackers or bread to cleanse your palate between tastings.

Bottomline

Wine is a classic, we all know that. But the experience of actually picking the grapes that go into your glass adds a whole new layer to enjoying wine. Take part in the process, enjoy the sights, and bring home the story. If you’re ready for a smooth and enjoyable trip, let us help. Check out our services, explore our deals, and book your adventure today!