Mars Hosaka Winery: A Taste of Japanese Terroir
Discover award-winning Japanese wines at Mars Hosaka Winery, with stunning views of Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi's picturesque wine country.
Mars Hosaka Winery, a part of Hombo Shuzo, is located in Nirasaki, Yamanashi, a region known as the heart of Japanese winemaking. Established as a brewing base to enhance quality, the winery takes advantage of Yamanashi's rich climate to produce distinctive wines. The winery's location offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps, enhancing the visitor experience. The Mars group may not be widely known outside Japan, but they produce modern red wines that are reminiscent of Australian or New Zealand wines. Chateau Mars also produces fortified and white Koshu wines, which are fruitier and more rounded than similar wines from other Japanese producers. Koshu grapes are well-suited to the volcanic soils and climate of the Yamanashi prefecture. Visitors can take a winemaking tour to learn about the production process and taste the products in the tasting rooms. The visitor building houses a wine bar and shop where guests can sample Mars wines. The shop also offers a selection of original items. The winery was established as a new brewery base in 2017.
Local tips
- Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary seasonally (March–November 9 am to 5 pm, December–February 10 am to 4 pm).
- Consider taking the ¥500 winemaking tour for an in-depth look at the production process.
- Take advantage of the paid tasting options to explore the variety of Mars wines.
- Visit on a clear day for the best views of Mount Fuji from the winery.
A brief summary to Mars Hosaka Winery
- Kamiimai-8-1 Hosakamachi, Nirasaki, Kamiimai Hosakamachi, Yamanashi, 407-0172, JP
- +81551-45-8883
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Train and Walking
From Nirasaki Station, Mars Hosaka Winery is approximately a 25-30 minute walk or a short taxi ride away. From the station exit, walk north and follow the main road. Turn right at the Hosaka Post Office, then continue straight. The winery will be on your left. A taxi from Nirasaki Station will cost approximately ¥1,500 - ¥2,000. Alternatively, take a bus from Nirasaki Station to the Hosaka area and walk for 10 minutes. Bus fare is around ¥300.
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Driving
If driving, Mars Hosaka Winery is located near the Nirasaki Interchange (IC) on the Chuo Expressway. From the IC, follow the signs towards Hosaka. The winery has a parking lot with 15 spaces. Parking is free. Be aware that access is limited to cars only.
