
Grace Winery Chuo Wine Co.
Family-owned estate since 1923, renowned for its Koshu grape wines, offering tastings with scenic views and a blend of Japanese-European charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

Grace Winery Chuo Wine Co.
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Family-owned estate since 1923, renowned for its Koshu grape wines, offering tastings with scenic views and a blend of Japanese-European charm.
"The team are super lovely and welcoming, with a lovely view from the second floor tasting room."

🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available
Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable.
⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs
Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Koshu Grape Wines
Tasting Room
Savor the unique flavors of Japan's signature white grape, Koshu, known for its delicate aromas and crisp finish.

Scenic Tasting Room Views
Second Floor Tasting Room
Enjoy your wine with a picturesque backdrop, blending European-esque winery design with Japanese aesthetics.

Family Estate History
Winery Grounds
Experience the charm of a winery founded in 1923, offering a glimpse into Japan's evolving wine heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tasting in Advance
Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lockdown lineup
🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available
Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable.
⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs
Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
I’ve visited 80+ of Japan’s 500 wineries and tasted wines from 300+ producers in Japan. Want to know more about Japanese wine? AMA
🍷 Koshu & Chardonnay Standouts
Don't miss trying their Koshu and Chardonnay wines, both highly praised for their excellent taste and pairing potential.
💰 Tasting Portions Can Vary
Some visitors have noted that tasting portions can be small. Manage expectations regarding pour sizes for tastings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 English-Speaking Staff Available
Great news for international visitors! Many reviewers mention the availability of English-speaking staff, making your visit smooth and enjoyable.
⬆️ Tasting Room is Upstairs
Be aware the tasting room is on the second floor, accessible by stairs. Plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
🍷 Koshu & Chardonnay Standouts
Don't miss trying their Koshu and Chardonnay wines, both highly praised for their excellent taste and pairing potential.
💰 Tasting Portions Can Vary
Some visitors have noted that tasting portions can be small. Manage expectations regarding pour sizes for tastings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Grace Winery is praised for its welcoming staff and the quality of its Koshu and Chardonnay wines, offering a pleasant tasting experience with scenic views. However, some visitors have reported issues with inconsistent pour sizes during tastings and occasional unhelpful staff interactions, leading to disappointment.
"The team are super lovely and welcoming. They have English speaking stuff which made the visit all the more seamless. The view from the second floor tasting room is lovely. The decor and winery design is European-esque with flavours of Japan. Can’t recommend enough!"
Jane
"This is my favorite Japanese wine right now. I tried both their Koshu and Chardonnay and both were very nice.
I tried the Koshu with Japanese Kaiseki meals in Kyoto and the Chardonnay with French food in Tokyo this month.
I became a fan of Grace Wine.
Next time I’m in Japan, I’d like to visit the winery if possible."
Y Richter
"Friendly and very helpful staff. Wonderful wines. Note that tasting room is on 2nd floor up a flight of stairs."
Dennis Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grace Winery is located in the Yamanashi Prefecture. The most common way to reach it is by taking the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo Station to Nirasaki Station, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. From Nirasaki Station, you can take a taxi or a local bus to the winery. Some visitors opt for a rental car for more flexibility in exploring the region.
Yes, Grace Winery is accessible by public transport. After arriving at Nirasaki Station via train, local buses or taxis are available to take you to the winery. It's advisable to check bus schedules in advance as they may be infrequent.
Driving is a convenient option if you are comfortable navigating Japanese roads. There is typically parking available at the winery. Renting a car can offer more freedom to explore other wineries in the Yamanashi region.
For visiting multiple wineries in Yamanashi, a rental car offers the most convenience. Alternatively, you can use a combination of trains, local buses, and taxis, but this requires more planning and can be time-consuming. Some organized wine tours also operate in the region.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service directly from major cities, local buses operate from Nirasaki Station. It's best to check the latest public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance, especially if you require English-speaking staff or are visiting during peak times. This ensures your spot and a smoother experience.
Opening hours can vary, but typically the winery and its shop are open during daytime hours. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Tasting fees can vary depending on the selection and number of wines offered. Some reviews mention prices around 2500 JPY per glass for tasting, but it's advisable to confirm current pricing upon arrival or when booking.
Information on vineyard tours is not consistently mentioned. It's best to inquire directly with Grace Winery when booking your tasting to see if any vineyard tours are available or can be arranged.
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the winery shop. However, wine tastings and any special experiences will incur separate charges.
🍽️ 🍷 Wine & Dining
Grace Winery is particularly renowned for its wines made from the Koshu grape, Japan's indigenous white variety. They also produce excellent Chardonnay and other varietals.
Yes, you can purchase a variety of wines directly from the winery's shop. It's a great opportunity to take home some of your favorite Japanese wines.
The winery primarily focuses on wine. While they may offer small snacks or pairings, it's not a full-service restaurant. It's recommended to have a meal before or after your visit, or check if they offer any specific food pairings.
Koshu wine, with its delicate citrus and mineral notes, pairs beautifully with Japanese cuisine such as sushi, sashimi, and light seafood dishes. It can also complement poultry and vegetable-based meals.
There are dining options in the nearby town of Nirasaki. It's advisable to research local restaurants in advance, especially if you plan to dine after your winery visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The second-floor tasting room offers lovely views, blending European and Japanese design elements. The winery grounds themselves, with their vineyards and architecture, also provide picturesque backdrops for photos.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, including the tasting room, but it's always polite to be mindful of other guests and staff. Avoid intrusive photography during tastings.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for vineyard shots. Midday can be bright, but the interior of the tasting room is often well-lit.
Specific restrictions on drone photography are not widely mentioned. However, it's always best practice to check with the winery directly and adhere to any local regulations regarding drone usage.
A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, would be useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the vineyard vistas, and a prime lens can be useful for low-light interior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to manage children's expectations regarding the tasting experience. Consider bringing activities or snacks for them, and focus on the visual aspects of the winery and the beautiful surroundings. Inquiring about any family-friendly amenities or viewing areas when booking is also a good idea.
🍷 Wine Connoisseurs
Engage with the knowledgeable staff to learn about the winemaking process and the specific terroir that influences their wines. Comparing their Koshu with other Japanese producers or even international white wines can be a rewarding experience. Don't hesitate to purchase bottles directly from the winery to continue your exploration at home.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the vineyard landscapes, the winery's architecture, and the details of the tasting experience. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day can create dramatic and beautiful images. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the winery's operations while capturing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Koshu Grapes
Visiting Grace Winery offers a direct opportunity to taste the evolution of Koshu wine. The winery's dedication to this grape showcases its potential on the international stage. Many visitors are surprised by the complexity and elegance of Koshu wines, which can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of cuisines. The experience provides a deeper appreciation for Japan's contribution to the global wine landscape.
A Blend of Japanese and European Aesthetics
Reviewers often highlight the 'European-esque' feel combined with Japanese flavors, describing the decor as charming and the overall design as tasteful. This thoughtful design contributes to a memorable visitor experience, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the wines. The visual appeal, coupled with the quality of the wine, makes Grace Winery a destination that engages multiple senses.
Navigating the Japanese Wine Scene
For wine enthusiasts, exploring Japanese wineries like Grace offers a chance to discover unique varietals and winemaking styles. The commitment of producers to quality and innovation is evident, with many focusing on both indigenous grapes like Koshu and international varietals. Engaging with the Japanese wine scene provides a fascinating insight into a burgeoning industry and the passion of its vintners.




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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit