The most common way is to take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Enzan Station or Yamanashi-shi Station, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach individual wineries. Renting a car in Tokyo or picking one up near the stations offers more flexibility for exploring the area.

Getting between wineries can be challenging without a car. While there are local buses, they may not run frequently or connect all wineries directly. Many visitors find renting a car or joining a guided tour to be the most convenient options.

Some wineries might offer limited shuttle services, especially during peak season, but it's not a widespread system. It's best to check with individual wineries or look into local tour operators who often include transportation.

Depending on the specific wineries you plan to visit, some might be within walking distance of each other. However, the Katsunuma area is spread out, so walking between all of them is generally not feasible.

For those who prefer not to drive, consider booking a wine tour that includes transportation. Alternatively, using taxis between wineries is an option, though it can become costly.

Wine tasting typically involves purchasing a prepaid card, often around JPY 1,650, which includes a JPY 1,000 tasting credit and a JPY 650 souvenir card. You can top up the card for additional tastings.

It's highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially for popular wineries or during peak seasons like autumn harvest. This ensures you secure a spot and can plan your visit smoothly.

Winery hours can vary, but generally, they are open from around 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It's always best to check the specific hours for each winery you plan to visit, as they can differ by season.

Most wineries do not charge an entrance fee to visit their grounds or tasting rooms. The cost is primarily associated with the wine tasting itself, where you pay for the amount of wine you sample.

Yes, you can purchase bottles of wine directly from the wineries. Prices typically range from JPY 1,800 to JPY 5,500, offering a wide selection to take home.

The Katsunuma area is particularly known for its Koshu and Arugabranca grape varieties. Koshu is a white grape that produces crisp, aromatic wines, while Arugabranca also yields excellent white wines. Red wine enthusiasts can find fragrant barrel-aged options as well.

With a tasting card, you can typically sample around 10 different wines, depending on the pour size. The card allows you to choose from a selection of available wines at the tasting machine.

Absolutely! Most wineries offer a diverse selection of both white and red wines for tasting, allowing you to explore the full range of their production.

While the focus is on wine, some wineries may offer grape juice or other non-alcoholic beverages. It's advisable to inquire directly with the winery if you require non-alcoholic options.

Katsunuma Winery holds the distinction of being the first Japanese winery whose wine was imported into the EU. This historical significance adds to the appeal of visiting and tasting their wines.

The rolling vineyards themselves offer stunning photographic opportunities, especially during autumn. Look for elevated viewpoints or the picturesque traditional Japanese architecture of some wineries.

Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the tasting rooms, but it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors and staff. Some wineries might have specific areas where photography is encouraged.

While not common, some private areas or specific events might have photography restrictions. It's best to observe any signage or ask staff if you're unsure.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for vineyard photography, casting a warm glow over the landscape.

Drone usage is often restricted in agricultural areas and near residential zones due to privacy and safety concerns. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone in the Katsunuma area.