bottles
1 / 10

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka

4
·5k reviews·Koshu, Japan

Discover Yamanashi's finest wines amidst stunning vineyard vistas at Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka, offering unlimited tastings and scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
Loading map...
bottles

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Yamanashi's finest wines amidst stunning vineyard vistas at Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka, offering unlimited tastings and scenic views.

4
(5k reviews)

"Lovely location with amazing views and friendly staff, a great introduction to Japanese wines."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗣️ Language Barrier? No Problem!

Staff are accommodating and will explain in English if needed. :speech_balloon:

💰 Value for Money?

Consider the ¥2200 tasting fee. Some found it great, others felt portions were small. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unlimited Wine Tasting

Unlimited Wine Tasting

Sample a wide array of Yamanashi wines for a fixed price. Discover unique Japanese varietals and find your new favorite.

Vineyard Balcony Views

Vineyard Balcony Views

Savor your wine with a breathtaking panorama of rolling vineyards stretching across the valley.

Wine Cellar Exploration

Wine Cellar Exploration

Wander through the wine cellar and learn about the winemaking process in this renowned Yamanashi region.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Wine Tasting Experience

For ¥2200, enjoy unlimited wine tasting. Staff are friendly and helpful, even with language barriers. Some visitors found the tasting portions small and noted that not all bottles were available for tasting.

Scenic Views & Amenities

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka boasts beautiful vineyard views from its balcony and grounds. The facilities are clean and organized, with on-site restaurants available for breaks between tastings.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tasting
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn harvest season
Why
Vibrant vineyard colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Wine tasting in Yamanashi

🗣️ Language Barrier? No Problem!

Staff are accommodating and will explain in English if needed. :speech_balloon:

💰 Value for Money?

Consider the ¥2200 tasting fee. Some found it great, others felt portions were small. :moneybag:

🍽️ On-site Dining

Restaurants are available, perfect for a break between wine tastings. :forkandknife:

📸 Stunning Scenery

The vineyard views are a major highlight, especially from the balcony. :camerawithflash:

Tips

from all over the internet

🗣️ Language Barrier? No Problem!

Staff are accommodating and will explain in English if needed. :speech_balloon:

💰 Value for Money?

Consider the ¥2200 tasting fee. Some found it great, others felt portions were small. :moneybag:

🍽️ On-site Dining

Restaurants are available, perfect for a break between wine tastings. :forkandknife:

📸 Stunning Scenery

The vineyard views are a major highlight, especially from the balcony. :camerawithflash:

🚫 No Spittoons

Be prepared to swallow all tastings, as there are no spittoons available. :wine_glass:

What Travellers Say

4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka offers a scenic wine tasting experience with friendly staff and beautiful vineyard views. While the unlimited tasting is a draw, some visitors found the tasting portions small and noted limited bottle availability. The on-site amenities like restaurants and an onsen add to its appeal.

"This hotel, spa and wine cave is in heart of Yamanshi wine country. I would characterize the area as the Sonoma Valley of Japan. Wines featured at the Wine Cave are typically lighter and sweeter matching Jaoanese preferred qualities. It's enjoyable to taste wines from 40 wineries located in the area."

Mark Snell

"I visited the Winery for a day out and spent a few hours here. For ¥2200 you can try as much of their wines as you want.

It’s in a beautiful location and the staff were really friendly. After I struggled with my Japanese and explained I’m still learning but get nervous speaking, the staff member went out of her way to explain everything in English.

The balcony has a beautiful view of the valley and the facilities were clean and organised. I hope to come back in the future.

Thank you!"

Luke Carter

"Lovely location with amazing views. Did the wine tasting, some interesting wines in Japan, especially from someone used to South African wines. Mono brought me here"

Riaan Lee

What People Like

Beautiful vineyard views
Friendly and helpful staff
Unlimited wine tasting option

What People Dislike

Small tasting portions
Limited bottle availability
No spittoons

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Kofu Station, you can take the JR Chuo Line to Katsunuma-budōkyō Station (approx. 20-30 minutes). From the station, it's a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk through the vineyards to Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka. Some visitors arrive via tour bus after sightseeing in the area. Reddit

Yes, driving is a convenient option, especially if you plan to explore more of the Yamanashi region. There is ample parking available at the winery. TikTok

While public transport connects major towns, renting a car or joining a guided tour can offer more flexibility for visiting multiple wineries in Yamanashi. Reddit

Some local buses may serve the area, but checking schedules in advance is recommended. Tour buses are also a common way for visitors to reach the winery. Reddit

Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 20-30 minutes from Katsunuma-budōkyō Station. It's a lovely way to experience the vineyard landscape. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The standard wine tasting fee is ¥2200, which allows you to try as much of their available wines as you wish. Reddit

The fee typically covers unlimited tasting of the wines available in the tasting area. However, some visitors have noted that not all bottles are always available. Reddit

For individuals or small groups, booking in advance is usually not necessary, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and tasting availability. Instagram

Currently, there are no widely advertised discounts for the standard wine tasting. The ¥2200 fee is generally for unlimited tasting. Reddit

🎫 🍷 Onsite Experience

You pay a flat fee for unlimited tasting of their wines. The staff are generally friendly and can assist with explanations. Some reviews mention small tasting portions and limited bottle availability. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase bottles of the wines you enjoyed during your tasting. This is a great way to take a piece of Yamanashi wine home with you. Reddit

Yes, there are restaurants on-site where you can enjoy a meal. This is convenient for breaking up your wine tasting or for those who prefer not to drink. Reddit

The winery offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the valley, especially from its balcony. It's a very picturesque location. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have mentioned an onsen facility available at Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka, offering a relaxing experience with vineyard views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The balcony overlooking the vineyards is a prime spot for stunning landscape photos. The vineyard rows themselves also make for beautiful shots, especially during autumn. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in most public areas, including the wine cellar. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage. TikTok

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light over the vineyards, creating a magical atmosphere for photos. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in most tourist areas to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check with the venue directly before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

Capture the contrast between the modern winery architecture and the natural beauty of the vineyards. Also, photos of the wine bottles during tasting can be appealing. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While primarily a winery, Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka can still be enjoyable for families. The beautiful vineyard views offer a pleasant backdrop, and the on-site restaurants provide dining options. Kids might enjoy exploring the grounds and seeing the vineyards, though the wine tasting itself is for adults. Consider it a scenic stop with amenities rather than a dedicated children's attraction. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The ¥2200 wine tasting offers a potentially cost-effective way to sample multiple Yamanashi wines. If you're mindful of your consumption and focus on discovering new flavors, it can be good value. Bringing your own snacks or planning a simple meal at the on-site restaurant can help manage overall costs. Reddit

couples

The romantic vineyard views from the balcony make Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka a lovely spot for couples. Enjoying a wine tasting together, followed by a meal with a view, can be a perfect afternoon outing. The onsen also offers a relaxing shared experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Yamanashi Wine Experience

Yamanashi Prefecture is Japan's leading wine-producing region, and Katsunuma is at its heart. The area is renowned for its Koshu grape, a native Japanese white grape variety that produces crisp, aromatic wines. You'll also find Muscat Bailey A, a red grape often used for fruity, lighter-bodied reds. Visiting Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka offers a direct gateway to exploring these unique Japanese wines.

While the unlimited tasting for ¥2200 is a draw, it's worth noting that visitor experiences can vary. Some find it an excellent way to sample many wines, while others have expressed disappointment with the availability of certain bottles or the small pour sizes. It's advisable to go with an open mind and focus on discovering new flavors rather than quantity. Remember, there are no spittoons, so be prepared to enjoy every sip! Reddit

Beyond the tasting, the winery provides a pleasant atmosphere with beautiful vineyard views. The staff's willingness to assist, even with language barriers, enhances the overall experience. It's a great place to learn about Japanese viticulture and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. Reddit

Navigating the Tasting and Facilities

The core offering at Katsunuma Budo-no-Oka is its wine tasting. For a set fee, visitors can sample a selection of their wines. The setup is designed for self-service tasting, where you can approach different bottles and pour yourself a sample. This allows for a flexible and personal tasting journey.

Beyond the tasting room, the facility includes restaurants, offering a convenient option for lunch or a snack. This is particularly useful if you plan to spend several hours exploring the grounds or if you're traveling with non-drinkers. The onsen (hot spring) is another amenity that adds to the relaxation aspect of a visit, providing a unique way to unwind after a day of wine appreciation. Reddit

The scenic balcony is a must-visit for its panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. It's an ideal spot to relax, take photos, and truly soak in the atmosphere of Yamanashi's wine country. The grounds themselves are well-maintained and pleasant for a leisurely stroll, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape that produces these distinctive wines. Reddit

You may also like