Katsunuma Grape Hill (Katsunuma Town, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka is a base facility for wine and grape culture in Katsunuma Town, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Katsunuma has long been a leading wine-producing region in Japan (Koshu Wine Village), where cultivation and brewing have flourished, and Budo-no-Oka is a tourist facility developed to showcase the charms of this region. The facility includes a wine cave (storage), wine shop, tasting corner, observation deck, restaurant and shop, and the outstanding views overlooking the vineyards and Kofu Basin are also a major attraction. As a base for touring wineries, the facility also hosts seasonal events and exhibits related to grapes and wine.

Highlights

• Observation deck/view From the facility's elevated location, you can get a panoramic view of Katsunuma's vineyards, and on clear days you can see Mount Fuji, the Southern Alps, and the Kofu Basin. It's a popular photo spot.
• Wine cave and wine collection — A storehouse and exhibition with a wide variety of bottles, mainly local wines. There is also an exhibition on wine preservation methods and history.
• Tasting corner - There is a tasting corner where you can try small amounts of many different brands, making it easy to find a wine you like (although there is often a fee for tasting, so please follow the instructions).
• Wine Shop/Souvenirs — Local wineries' wines, grape products, and related goods are available, making it a convenient place to choose souvenirs.
• Seasonal Events and Grape Harvest — The area bustles with activity with seasonal events, such as the autumn grape-picking season and wine festivals (the dates change each year).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station — JR Chuo Main Line "Katsunuma-budokyo Station" (accessible from either JR Kofu or Enzan). From the station, it's about a 5-15 minute taxi ride, or a 20-40 minute uphill walk.
• car — Approximately 10-20 minutes from Katsunuma IC on the Chuo Expressway via national and prefectural roads. Parking is available around the facility, but it can get crowded on weekends and during peak seasons.
• Buses and Shuttles - Special buses and shuttles may operate during certain seasons or events. It's best to check the official website or tourist information in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Quick look around: about 1 hour (viewing, shop, light tasting)
• Relaxing stay: 2-3 hours (take your time tasting, eating, and viewing the exhibits)
• Day trip combined with winery touring: Half a day to a full day (including visiting nearby wineries and grape picking)

Nearby spots

• Wineries around Katsunuma (Chateau Mercian, Chuo Budoshu (Grace), and other local wineries) - Enjoy winery tours and direct sales.
• Grape-picking spots — During the autumn harvest season, there are many farms where you can experience grape picking.
• Fuefukigawa Fruit Park — A park where you can enjoy fruit and scenery, perfect for seasonal fruit picking and strolling.
• Hot spring facilities in Koshu City - There are also many facilities where you can relax in a hot spring after a day of sightseeing.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion — During autumn (harvest season from September to October), Golden Week, and weekends, the number of visitors increases, and the parking lot and tasting area tend to be crowded. If possible, we recommend visiting on weekdays or in the morning.
• Tasting etiquette — Tasting often requires a fee, so please be careful not to drink too much. Driving after drinking is prohibited. Please consider using public transportation, a designated transportation service, or a taxi.
• Underage drinking — Underage drinking is prohibited in public. If you have minors with you, refrain from tasting or stick to soft drinks.
• Clothes/weather — As it is located on high ground, there may be strong winds and direct sunlight in summer, so it is recommended to bring a jacket, hat, and drinking water for comfort. It may get chilly in winter.
• photo shoot — Generally, taking photos of the scenery is not a problem, but if there are areas within the facility where photography is prohibited, such as exhibits or wine storage, please follow the signs.
• Advance confirmation — The operating hours of the exhibition and tasting corners, events, and parking conditions may change depending on the season and year, so please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka is a comprehensive base that can be enjoyed by wine novices and enthusiasts alike. Take in the views of the vineyards and mountains while embarking on a journey to find the perfect wine for you.