Kobe Winery perched on a hill in the west of Kobe produces wine from a variety of grapes grown in the region. The winery is a large open space where you can wander around freely and enjoy the seasonal flowers, grape vines and a meal.
The early days (1990s early 2000s), Kobe Wine was met with quite unfavourable reviews. Since then though, the quality of grapes grown and the wine producing techniques have improved considerably. Now Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling and Shinano Riesling grape varieties are grown in the northern and western areas of Kobe.
The Wine Shop is the best place to pick up a bottle of Kobe Wine and selection of cheeses, chocolate and wine goods. Wine tasting is available upon request. Remember though, Japan has a zero alcohol law when driving.
The Winery Cafe is open for lunch and offers basic meals at reasonable prices such as the Kobe Wine Beef Stew for ¥850.
Enjoy a barbecue and wine at Kobe West, a large open BBQ restaurant that’s available on weekends and public holidays from April through to November. There are 2 options availble, you can pay for the use of facilities only and BYO or you can order sets of food. Bookings are highly recommended and can be made at kobe-bbq.jp (Japanese).
There are a few ageing kids attractions, a small playground and the canal with large carp to keep the kids entertained. At the entrance to the winery is a farmers market selling vegetables, fruit and rice from the Kobe region.
Kobe Winery is best accessed by car with a large car park. You an also catch a bus from Seishin Chuo Station on the Kobe Subway Line. Entrance and parking is free.
