Located right in the center of the Izu Peninsula, on high-altitude hills, vineyards stretch out in a remarkably open and beautiful landscape unlike anything you'd expect in Japan, truly living up to its name as a paradise in the sky.Nakaizu Winery Hills」。
Known for the school lunch industry and karaokeSHiDAXThe founder of ''Tsuyoshi ShidaIt all started when he launched a winery business to create a new industry in his hometown, and the person he brought in as president was someone who had been involved in winemaking and cultivation for many years at Manns Wine and had developed the "rain-cut cultivation method."Kenji KinoshitaMr. [Name]'s passion for cultivating high-quality grapes in Izu, a region with abundant rainfall, has led to continuous challenges and innovations, which have shaped the breathtaking scenery and wine culture we see today.
Furthermore, in September 2022, a glamping facility where you can stay with your dog was opened.Central Izu EAST WINDS VILLAGEThe resort has been transformed into a dog-friendly destination where guests can enjoy not only wine but also the entire stay, with seven of its ten villas, including suite villas exceeding 100 square meters and standard villas, allowing guests to bring their dogs, and equipped with a private dog run.
As you head from the parking lot to the main building and climb the stairs, the first thing that greets you is a pergola (grape arbor), which immediately fills you with the excitement of stepping into a winery.
Amidst the lush green leaves, the grapes, laden with fruit, make their appearance.
The grapes, which have just begun to take on a faint reddish hue, are carefully wrapped in paper bags, one bunch at a time, and seem to be quietly waiting for harvest time.
You'll be greeted by bells made by a Dutch bell maker with over 300 years of tradition. When rung, the refreshing sound resonates throughout the vast grounds.
"Nakaizu Winery Chateau TS"
The first place we visited was,Nakaizu Winery Chateau TSMain building. Dogs are not allowed inside the main building, so if you are visiting with your dog, please go through the passageway on the right side of the building and proceed to the terrace.
Opened in January 2000, this establishment will celebrate its 25th anniversary on January 15th, 2025, and is planning various commemorative events, including the sale of 25th-anniversary label wine and a promotion where wine grapes or grape juice will be given away to every 2,500 visitors.
The château, which offers panoramic views of the entire vineyard, is a winery resort where you can fully enjoy wine, with a wine production facility, restaurant, tasting counter, and chapel. To the southwest of the vineyard is a resort with hot spring facilities, a baseball field, a soccer field, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.HOTEL WINERY HILLIt also has a '[restaurant name]' and is a comprehensive resort facility.
Let's climb the stairs that lead to the terrace.
Main building, 2nd floor terrace (ground floor)
You can spend time here with your beloved dog.
Located at an altitude of 300m, this 10-hectare vineyard is nestled amidst the majestic foothills of Izu. From the terrace, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent rolling hills, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the sacred Mount Fuji—it truly is a paradise in the sky.
Vineyard Map
For white wines, we cultivate Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shinano Riesling, Petit Manseng, and others. For red wines, we cultivate Yama Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Marcellin, Syrah, Malbec, and others. By offering a diverse range of varieties, including experimental cultivation, we are working to improve quality by bringing out the unique flavor of each grape.
Since Chocolat wasn't allowed inside the building, my husband and I took turns to tour the brewery and wine shop.
There's also an observation deck on the roof of the main building, where you can ring the bell in the bell tower, and the occasional ringing of the bell is very soothing. Even though we were sitting on the terrace to avoid the strong sunlight, it seemed to be too hot for Chocolat, and a staff member kindly spoke to my husband about it. They asked, "Do you need any water?" and even provided a fan. Thank you for your thoughtfulness.
Main building, 2nd floor tasting corner (ground floor)
Inside the building, there's a "tasting corner" where you can sample all the wines produced there, so you can choose according to your preferences and mood. It's fascinating how wines from the same vineyard can show completely different characteristics depending on the grape variety and winemaking method. You can enjoy the flavors nurtured by the climate and terroir of Izu while receiving explanations from the sommelier.
These wines can be easily sampled by the glass for around 200-500 yen.
Main building, 2nd floor wine shop (ground floor)
The hotel's "wine shop" is lined with wines and original products that can only be purchased here. From recommended wines to wine-based sweets and seasonings, there are items perfect as souvenirs of your trip. Just looking at them is exciting, and you'll be spoiled for choice!
Our original wines are made from grapes grown in the vineyards that stretch out before you.
For those who don't like alcohol, we also sell grape juice and grape vinegar made from wine grapes.
Go down one step of the stairs to the first floor, and you'll see the brewery.
Main building, 1st floor wine factory (basement 1st floor)
The space lined with fermentation tanks and barrels is truly where the wine comes alive.
However, because it is a small winery, the factory is not operational every day, so they display videos summarizing the winemaking process and easy-to-understand, simplified panels. By learning firsthand about the process of how a bottle of wine is made, you will surely appreciate the wine poured into your glass even more. Hotel guests can sign up for the "Nakaizu Winery Tour (500 yen/adult)."
A space that stretches out like a cave. Descending a small staircase, you arrive at the cellar.
Main building, 1st floor collection cellar (basement 1st floor)
You can also tour the owner's collection wine cellar. It houses a collection of over 1,000 wines, including approximately 300 bottles of Opus One, ranging from the first vintage in 1979 to the latest vintage in 2019.
Main building, 1st floor cellar VIP room (basement 1st floor)
The exhibition features photographs and paintings themed around Nakaizu Winery and Izu, as well as materials related to Kyoho grapes, which originated in Nakaizu.
Chapel "Opus One"
Here, we have a chapel equipped for both church and civil ceremonies, where you can exchange vows of eternal love on a sacred aisle. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows, natural light pours in, creating a magical atmosphere for your wedding.
After taking turns, both of them finished touring the building.
Now, off to the vineyards we've been looking forward to.
The vineyard is situated on a gently sloping area facing southwest. All the grapes used for winemaking are grown using the "trellis cultivation" method.
Enjoy the vineyards with your dog, but be sure to follow the rules.
Chocolat, who had been held on the terrace the whole time, also seemed to be enjoying herself and relaxing.
Chocolat, unusually, is trotting along, enjoying the fresh air of the magnificent vineyard planted with 30,000 grapevines.
A gentle breeze rustles the leaves, and each grape sparkles, bathed in the intense sunlight.
Surrounded by the scent of earth and fresh grass, each deep breath feels refreshing, as if your soul is being cleansed.
This time spent strolling leisurely with Chocolat, surrounded by tranquil scenery, is a truly special experience unique to Winery Hills.
Nakaizu Winery Hills is an unforgettable place not only for wine lovers, but also for dog lovers and those who want to enjoy nature. Amidst breathtaking vineyards, you'll encounter fine wines and spend time with chocolate. A special day awaits you here, an experience you can only have here.
Wine lovers and dog lovers alike should definitely stop by.
The perfect way to end the trip: "Izu Wine Grape Vinegar" 1,836 yen
The last souvenir I chose was the winery's original "Izu Wine Grape Vinegar." Made with their own grape variety, "Shidanoki," it's packed with polyphenols and anthocyanins that support good health. It's a 5x concentrate, so you can use it however you like. Mix it with water or sparkling water for a refreshing drink, with soy milk or regular milk for a milder taste, with gin or vodka for a cocktail, with olive oil to make a dressing, or pour it over yogurt or ice cream for a delicious vinegar. Back home, I mixed it with sparkling water to make a grape vinegar juice perfect for summer, and the refreshing sweet and sour taste and rich grape flavor filled my mouth, bringing back the breathtaking scenery I had at Winery Hills.
Next time: We'll be introducing a hearty steak lunch at the steakhouse of Naka-Izu Winery!
Nakaizu Winery Hills
Address: 1433-27 Shimo-Shiraiwa, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture 410-2501
TEL: 0558-83-5111
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Closed days: Please check the official website.
https://nakaizuwinery.com/
