Visit Yoichi Wine Region
Plan your trip to Hokkaido's premier wine region
What to Expect
This is for you if:
- • You enjoy intimate, personal experiences with winemakers
- • You want to taste limited-production wines not available elsewhere
- • You appreciate small-batch craftsmanship over volume
- • You can plan 2-3 weeks ahead and book appointments
This probably isn't for you if:
- • You prefer large group tours or structured activities
- • You're looking for budget wine tourism
- • You need fluent English communication at all times
- • You want guaranteed availability without advance booking
Wine Tourism Activities in Yoichi
Winery Visits
Most wineries offer tours and tastings. Some require advance booking, especially smaller producers. Tours typically include vineyard walks, cellar visits, and guided tastings.
During harvest season (September-October), many wineries offer hands-on grape picking experiences and harvest meals featuring local ingredients. Learn more about Yoichi's unique terroir and why this region produces exceptional cool-climate wines.
Tip:
Call ahead to confirm hours and book tastings, especially for smaller wineries.
Wine Tastings
- • Guided tastings at most wineries
- • Learn about local grape varieties
- • Purchase wines directly from producers
- • Some offer food pairing experiences
Local Food
- • Fresh seafood from nearby waters
- • Hokkaido beef and dairy products
- • Farm-to-table restaurants
- • Seasonal fruit picking
Other Activities
- • Visit Nikka Whisky Distillery
- • Explore coastal scenery
- • Traditional onsen hot springs
- • Apple and fruit orchards
Wineries Open for Visits
Most Yoichi wineries are small operations focused on production, so only a few welcome visitors. Visits are by appointment - just give them a call ahead of time.
Yoichi Winery
余市ワイナリー
Historic winery established in 1974, now operating as an integrated wine and cultural complex with restaurant facilities.
OcciGabi Winery
OcciGabiワイナリー
Contemporary winery designing Napa Valley-inspired landscapes, enhanced by German wine school expertise.
Domaine Bless
Domaine Bless
Former medical technician turned winemaker, developing a wine lover's destination complete with guest accommodation.
Don't see the wineries you're looking for? Browse our complete directory to discover all Yoichi producers. You might be able to taste some of their wines at bars and restaurants in Yoichi town.
Getting to Yoichi
Transportation Options
Fly to New Chitose Airport
Main international gateway to Hokkaido
New Chitose → Yoichi by Car (Recommended)
1.5 hours from airport, flexibility to visit multiple wineries
New Chitose → Sapporo → Yoichi by Train
Airport Express to Sapporo (40 min), then JR Hakodate Line to Yoichi (50 min)
Where to Stay in Yoichi
From traditional ryokan to modern hotels, find the perfect base for your wine region exploration.
Yoichi LOOP
Winery-inspired hotel with wood, iron and concrete design. Five room types from studio to compact doubles with vineyard cabin feel.
Best for: Wine enthusiasts
Hotel Suimeikaku
Traditional Japanese inn offering authentic ryokan experience with tatami floors and futon bedding.
Best for: Cultural experience
A-BRAND HOTEL
Blend of Western and Japanese-style rooms with garden, restaurant, and spa facilities.
Best for: Comfort & amenities
Before You Go
What to Bring
- Layers for changing weather
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Translation app or phrasebook
- Cash (some wineries don't accept cards)
Planning Tips
- Book winery visits in advance
- Plan 2-3 wineries per day maximum
- Have a designated driver or use taxis
- Check winery hours before visiting
Language
Many winemakers speak some English, especially at larger wineries. Don't let language concerns stop you from visiting smaller producers—wine is a universal language.
Ready to Visit?
Start exploring our winery directory to plan your Japanese wine tourism adventure, or learn about Hokkaido's wine region.