Enjoy Hokkaido Wines! A Day Trip to Sorachi's Wineries
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
- Days required
- About 10 hours [Day trip]
- Main methods of transportation
- Car
The Sorachi area, easily accessible from New Chitose Airport, is one of Hokkaido's premier wine regions. This area is dotted with small, artisanal wineries that meticulously craft exquisite wines. Many of these gems are so rare they can only be found locally.
Why not take a comfortable drive through this scenic region and get a taste of the profound world of wine?
In addition to wine, this tour will introduce you to fresh farm-to-table lunches and a beautiful outdoor art museum.
*If you are driving, please refrain from tasting any alcoholic beverages.
- * The spots and experience menus introduced in the course are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Sapporo City
9:00 Sapporo Departure
At 9:00, we'll depart from Sapporo in search of delicious Sorachi wines. We'll head towards the wine region via the Hokkaido Expwy, exiting at the Iwamizawa Interchange.
Around 10:00
Housui Winery
The Winery Known as a Filming Location for the Movie "The Grapes of Tears"
Hosui Winery is impressive with its red triangular roof and vineyards sprawling across gentle hills. The "RICCA" series, made from 100% estate-grown grapes nurtured in the snow-covered area of Iwamizawa, is particularly popular.
Here, you can not only taste and purchase wine but also tour the brewery. Additionally, a limited-edition original soft-serve ice cream is available from late April, so drivers can also enjoy a treat!
- Address
- 岩見沢市宝水町364-3
- Telephone Number
- 0126-20-1810
- Open
- 10:00-17:00
- Closed
- (April to December) Open every day
(January to March) Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Around 11:00
TAKIZAWA WINERY
Experience the Vibrant Flavors of Hokkaido
Next on our journey is Takizawa Winery, a testament to passion and dedication. Owner Nobuo Takizawa started cultivating grapes at the age of 60, clearing about one hectare of land over two years, beginning in 2004. Today, his vineyard flourishes with about 8,000 grapevines, each one a product of his tireless work.
Takizawa-san is committed to crafting natural wines, using pesticide-free cultivation and natural yeast. This dedication results in powerful, authentic flavors that capture the essence of Hokkaido's fertile soil. Come and discover the vibrant taste of a truly natural wine.
- Address
- 三笠市川内841-24
YAMAZAKI WINERY
A Legacy of Quality, Made by Hand
This winery is a family legacy, run by a multi-generational farming family that handles every step of the process, from grape cultivation to fermentation. With a commitment to doing everything "by hand," they are dedicated to producing the highest quality wines.
The petals on the wine labels are born from the fingerprints of the five family members. This beautiful design conveys how the family's warm bonds are connected to the delicious wines they create.
Yamazaki Winery aims to create a new agricultural culture through winemaking. A visit to the winery offers a chance to experience the region's rich nature, delicious local produce, and culture, which may just enrich your own daily life.
- Address
- 三笠市達布791-22
Around 13:00
Restaurant RIVISTA (lunch)
An Exquisite Italian Lunch at a Farm-Direct Restaurant
This authentic casual Italian restaurant prides itself on homemade mozzarella cheese, crafted from the fresh milk of healthy dairy cows raised right on Iwase Farm.
The cozy log house, with its warm wooden interior, provides a peaceful and relaxing space. After your meal, you can also enjoy delicious homemade sweets, including gelato and cakes.
- Address
- 砂川市一の沢237-6
Around 15:00
Kan Yasuda Sculpture Museum Arte Piazza Bibai
Where Art and Nature Intertwine
This is a unique open-air museum where the works of internationally renowned sculptor Kan Yasuda, a native of Bibai City, harmonize with nature. The museum is located on the site of a former elementary school and gymnasium from Bibai's past as a thriving coal mining town, which gives the space a nostalgic atmosphere.
Take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, letting your mind wander as you discover each sculpture. When you need a rest, don't miss the chance to stop by the cafe for a relaxing break. It's the perfect way to recharge while surrounded by art and nature.
- Address
- 美唄市落合町栄町
- Telephone Number
- 0126-63-3137
- Open
- 9:00-17:00
* Café Arte's hours are 10:00-17:00 (on weekdays from mid-November to mid-March, it's 10:00-16:00) - Closed
- Closed every Tuesday, the day after holidays (excluding Sundays), and during the New Year period (December 31-January 3)
A Quick Stop: Recommended for Those with Extra Time
- KURAMOCHI
- This is a long-established liquor store that carries over 100 different types of wine, including many from the Sorachi region. Although the selection is so extensive it can be overwhelming, the friendly owner is happy to provide advice tailored to your preferences, so you're sure to find the perfect bottle just for you.
Phone: 0126-22-0241
Address: 岩見沢市3条西6丁目1-1
Hours: 9:00 - 19:00 (Closed on Sundays, twice a month) - http://www.ht-wine.com/kuramoti_corporation/
- Ichikawa Smokehouse
- When in Hokkaido, your culinary adventure isn't complete without visiting Ichikawa Smokehouse. This unique shop specializes in expertly crafted smoked foods. We highly recommend their "Smoked Mackerel" - its rich flavor and tender texture are the ideal match for a crisp glass of local Sorachi wine. This delicious pairing is a true taste of the region.
Phone: 0126-20-0300
Address: 岩見沢市大和3条5丁目29
Hours: 11:00 - 17:00 (Please note that hours are subject to change) - https://ichikawakunseiyahonpo.raku-uru.jp/
A must-see for anyone who wants to enjoy more wine! Sorachi still has many more captivating spots for wine lovers to visit.
Arriving in Sapporo
How was your relaxing day trip? We hope you enjoyed visiting the wineries and experiencing the nature and art that Hokkaido has to offer. Just a short trip from Sapporo can create a special time for your mind and body to feel refreshed.
Back home, enjoy the memories of your journey with the wine and cheese you chose as souvenirs.
