The Koshu Valley is a verdant and peaceful landscape that exudes the essence of Japanese aesthetics. Though close to Tokyo, the Koshu landscape is nestled amidst rolling hills and towering mountains. It is here, within this lush valley that we find the home of the Koshu grape, the foundation of the Koshu wine and, perhaps, Japan's best-kept secret.

Arriving in the city of Katsunuma in the early morning, I was struck by the area’s environmental beauty and was grateful that my travel photography assignment for Hemispheres, United Airlines’ inflight magazine, had taken me to such a calm and serene place.

The mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture shield the valley from harsh winds and inclement weather, fostering a microclimate that is perfect for cultivating grapes. The soil is also ideal for grape cultivation, delivering the right blend of minerals and nutrients. The Koshu grape is delicate but adaptable. The grape's thin skin renders it vulnerable to damage, but its thick skin protects it from the valley's abrupt weather changes and harsh climate. The grape is harvested by hand, painstakingly selected, and then transported to the wineries to guarantee that the wine produced is of the highest caliber.

The vineyards in the Koshu Valley are a sight of their own. Rows of grapevines stretch out as far as the eye can see, arranged in perfect harmony with the natural contours of the land. The vineyards are carefully tended, with each grapevine trimmed and trained to optimize its yield and flavor.

The wineries in the Koshu Valley are an integral element of the landscape, ingrained with the valley's natural environment. They are designed in accordance with traditional Japanese architectural styles and materials, blending harmoniously into the surrounding countryside. The wineries provide visitors with a wide range of experiences, from tours of the vineyards to tastings of the different varieties of Koshu wine.

The Koshu Valley is an idyllic and scenic landscape that epitomizes the Japanese aesthetic. The valley's vineyards, wineries, and natural wonders all merge flawlessly into the landscape, establishing a harmonious and balanced environment. Visiting the Koshu Valley is a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of Japan, savor the delicate and elegant Koshu wine, and embrace the natural wonders of the valley.

Want to learn more about Japanese koshu? Read the full article here.

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