Train and Taxi Grape Temple and Winery Tour in Yamanashi

Yamanashi’s rich winemaking tradition comes alive in the Train and Taxi Grape Temple and Winery Tour. Departing from Shinjuku, this exclusive day trip immerses visitors in the region’s vibrant culture. Guests explore the stunning Grape Temple and sample acclaimed local wines, savoring the flavors that have captivated palates for generations. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a unique Japanese experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Yamanashi’s scenic landscapes and time-honored vintages.

Key Points

• The tour starts with a meeting at the South exit of JR Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, with an option for direct pickup from the area.
• The tour includes transportation to and from the Grape Temple and winery in Yamanashi, using a combination of trains and taxis.
• Participants will visit the Grape Temple, known for its ornate architecture, and attend a private blessing ceremony conducted by a Shinto priest.
• The tour also includes a guided visit to a renowned local winery, with a wine tasting and a special half bottle of vintage wine included.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with specific restrictions for certain medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The Train and Taxi Grape Temple and Winery Tour in Yamanashi, Japan offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s renowned winemaking heritage.

Rated 5.0 based on one review, the tour lasts the entire day and accommodates up to 8 travelers. Priced from $371.44 per person, the tour includes food, drinks, entrance fees, souvenirs, and a special half bottle of vintage wine.

However, it’s non-refundable, and the meeting point is at the JR Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. The tour requires a moderate fitness level and isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or medical conditions.

Meeting and Pickup

Where do tour participants meet for the Yamanashi Winery Tour?

Participants meet at the South exit of JR Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. The address is 3-chōme-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan.

Tour staff will be waiting with a flag to greet the group. Travelers have the option to either meet at the designated meeting point or request a direct pickup.

The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am, so participants should arrive on time to ensure a smooth start to their winery experience.

Inclusions

As part of the Yamanashi Winery Tour, the package includes various inclusions to enhance the overall experience for participants. The tour covers food and drinks, entrance fees, souvenirs, and a special half bottle of vintage wine.

Inclusions	Details
Food and Drinks	Participants will enjoy a variety of local cuisine and beverages during the tour.
Entrance Fees	All necessary entrance fees to the winery and temple are included in the package.
Souvenirs	Participants will receive special souvenirs to commemorate their Yamanashi winery experience.
Vintage Wine	A half bottle of the winery’s premium vintage wine is included as a special treat.

Expectations and Requirements

Confirmation of the Yamanashi Winery Tour is received at the time of booking.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions shouldn’t participate. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with these conditions as it may be too challenging. Guests should ensure they meet the tour’s expectations and requirements before booking.

The tour operator wants to ensure all participants have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the wineries and temples in Yamanashi.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Travelers can conveniently reach the meeting point at JR Shinjuku Station’s South exit, where the tour staff will be waiting with a tour flag to greet them.

Those opting for direct meeting can simply head to the designated location, while others can request pickup.

The station is well-connected, making it easy to access via public transportation.

Travelers should plan their journey ahead of time to ensure they arrive at the meeting point on time and ready to embark on the tour.

Clear directions and efficient coordination ensure a smooth start to the Yamanashi winery experience.

Exploring the Grape Temple

After departing the meeting point, the tour heads to the Grape Temple, a unique and revered site nestled amidst the lush vineyards of Yamanashi.

Visitors are struck by the temple’s ornate architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The tour guide shares the temple’s rich history, explaining its significance in the local winemaking culture.

Guests have the opportunity to explore the grounds, admiring the beautiful gardens and shrines. The highlight is a private blessing ceremony, where a Shinto priest performs a traditional ritual, imparting blessings for a fruitful harvest and prosperous future.

Visiting the Winery

After departing the Grape Temple, the tour group heads to a renowned local winery nestled in the heart of Yamanashi’s lush vineyards. The group tours the winery’s production facilities, learning about the intricate process of winemaking. They then participate in a guided tasting, sampling the winery’s signature varietals.

Winery Tour Highlights
Winery Tour	Grape Crushing	Barrel Tasting	Wine Tasting	Souvenir Purchase
Explore the production facilities	Experience the traditional grape crushing process	Taste wine directly from the barrel	Sample the winery’s award-winning wines	Browse the winery’s selection of gourmet products and souvenirs

The tour culminates with the presentation of a special half bottle of vintage wine, a memento of this immersive winery experience.

Returning to the Starting Point

With the winery tour concluded, the group now prepares to head back to the starting point at JR Shinjuku Station.

The tour staff ensures everyone is accounted for and ready to depart. The comfortable taxi transports the group back to the station, where they’ll catch the train to return to the city.

Along the way, travelers reflect on the day’s unique experiences – the beauty of the grape temples, the flavors of the vintage wine, and the insights gained into Japan’s rich winemaking heritage.

As the tour ends, participants feel enriched by this immersive cultural journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable policy, meaning there are no refunds for cancellations. Customers will not receive a refund if they cancel their booking for this tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour doesn’t mention any age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though the moderate physical fitness level requirement may make it less suitable for very young children or elderly participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusions specifically state that food, drinks, and a special half bottle of vintage wine are provided as part of the tour package.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour itinerary includes time spent at the grape temple and winery, but the specific duration at each location is not provided. The total tour duration, including transportation, is approximately 8 hours from the meeting point.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

If the weather is inclement, the tour operator will make adjustments to the itinerary to ensure guests’ safety and comfort. They’ll provide alternate indoor activities or modify the schedule as needed to accommodate the weather conditions.

The Sum Up

The Train and Taxi Grape Temple and Winery Tour in Yamanashi offers an immersive cultural experience. Guests embark on a journey to the Grape Temple and a renowned local winery, enjoying guided tastings, regional cuisine, and a complimentary half bottle of wine. This exclusive tour promises a memorable exploration of Yamanashi’s vibrant winemaking heritage, accommodating up to eight travelers for a truly unique day.