Chateau Mercian Wine Gallery, Koshu

The Château Mercian Wine Gallery represents Japan's pioneering wine heritage, located in Katsunuma, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The winery traces its origins to 1877 when it began as Japan's oldest private winery, originally known as the Dainippon Yamanashi Budoshu Company. Part of the Kirin drinks group, Château Mercian has been instrumental in developing Japan's wine industry, with legendary winemaker Usuke Asai introducing the sur lie method to Japan in 1983, helping to define Koshu as the delicate, dry white wine recognized today.

The centerpiece of the complex is the Wine Museum, housed in Japan's oldest existing wooden winery building, constructed in 1904. Originally known as the "Old Miyazaki No. 2 Brewery," the renovated museum provides comprehensive information on Japanese wine's birth and evolution, alongside Château Mercian's rich history. The museum features free admission and displays the oldest existing wine made in Japan, historical winemaking tools, and vintage Château Mercian bottles, all with English translations.

Visitors can experience comprehensive wine education through multiple offerings on the 145-year-old winery grounds. The facilities include the wine museum, Iwaimura Vineyard, Katsunuma Winery with its winemaking facilities and barrel cellar, plus tastings in the specialized Ortus Room. Two guided tour options are available: a standard ¥3,000 tour lasting 90 minutes with four tastings, and a premium ¥10,000 experience running 100 minutes with six tastings. Independent visitors can explore the wine museum and enjoy the on-site cafe offering small plates.

Transportation to Château Mercian is straightforward from Tokyo. The winery is accessible within approximately 100 minutes from Tokyo by train. From Katsunumabudokyo Station, visitors can either take a 45-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride to reach the facility. Museum admission is free, while tour participation fees are paid at the Wine Gallery reception upon arrival.