Yoichi is known for beautiful greenery, rolling mountains and the towering ocean-side cliff Cape Siripa.
But what attracts people most is their locally made wine.Yoichi Wine is crafted in an exquisite, natural setting.
When you hear the name “Yoichi” you may think of the famous whisky distillery or astronaut Mamoru “Mark” Mohri who was born here.
However, in recent years it has attracted attention as a place for producing delicious wine. One of the reasons is the climate. Yoichi has a similar climate to the Champagne region of France and is temperate compared to the rest of Hokkaido. Grapes with high sugar content grow due to the marked temperature difference between day and night.
The grapes grown are German and Austrian – Kerner, Zweigeltrebe – and also the French Pinot Noir, which is known to be difficult to cultivate. Yoichi now has the greatest wine grape harvest in Hokkaido and the quality is so high that wineries all around Japan are reaching out to farmers in Yoichi.
Recently farmers and wine makers who saw potential in Yoichi have started to create unique wineries. From 2015, with the neighbouring town of Niki we have also started a wine tourism project. The popularity of wine is increasing not just for wine enthusiasts but for tourists as well.
A great pairing of local cuisine and wine to be enjoyed in Yoichi
One great thing about Yoichi wine is that you can taste it right in the beautiful wine-producing region itself. Yoichi is located between sea and mountain. As well as wine, it offers an abundance of fresh produce and seafood. When you enter restaurants in town, local ingredients are used for every dish. When paired with wine, a refreshing and rich flavour indulges the senses.
Talking with locals is also fun. People in Yoichi are warm and friendly. At the end of the trip, we recommend you buy Yoichi wine at a local liquor store or souvenir shop. Every time you take a sip you will be taken back to the great memories you made at Yoichi. Walking around town, enjoying a glass of wine and savouring local produce while meeting locals, you will see why great wines are made in this town.
Nakane Liquor Store
Stocking a great variety of Yoichi wines, the owner has a wealth of knowledge and can help you choose your and how to enjoy your wine.
Farm Restaurant Yoicchini
Yoicchini takes pride in using seasonal local ingredients. Enjoy wines from Hirakawa Winery and Rita Farm and Winery.
Jijiya Babaya
Popular Italian restaurant famous for decadent servings of local seafood. The cuisine can be tasted with the wine, Domain Takahiko.
Find out more at Yoichi Niki Wine Tourism Project