#Japan #Minabe #Plum Farm #Plum Wine

Immerse Yourself in the World of Plums in Minabe, Wakayama

Minabe, located in Wakayama Prefecture, is renowned as the largest producer of plums in Japan, particularly the acclaimed Nanko variety. The Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa is offering a fantastic opportunity to explore this region through guided tours of plum farms and tastings of exclusive plum wines.

Starting from January 22nd to January 31st and February 19th to March 7th, guests can join this immersive program that celebrates the rich plum heritage of Minabe. The main attraction is a visit to the Arimoto Farm, where Yohei Arimoto, the third-generation owner, will guide visitors through fragrant plum orchards and the plum wine-making process. This unique experience allows participants to connect with local farming practices while enjoying the beautiful surroundings, especially during the stunning plum blossom season in February when the fields burst with white flowers.

Discover the Art of Plum Cultivation

At the Arimoto Farm, guests will learn about the dedication and expertise that goes into cultivating plums. The guided tour includes a walkthrough of the orchards, where visitors can observe the meticulous processes involved in plum farming, from nurturing the saplings to harvesting the fruit. The experience culminates in a visit to the plum wine production facility, where participants gain insights into the careful crafting of this traditional Japanese beverage.

This hands-on experience also highlights the grape-to-glass philosophy of the Arimoto Farm, where Yohei Arimoto has dedicated his life to producing the finest quality plum wines. Each step of the production process is explained in detail, showcasing the unique qualities of various plum varieties and emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices.

Delight in Tasting Unique Plum Wines

After exploring the farm and the production facility, the experience concludes with a tasting session featuring four varieties of the farm's original plum wine brand, Plumity. Guests can savor diverse flavors inspired by the locally grown Nanko plums:

• - Plumity Black: A rich and fragrant plum wine made from hand-picked, mature Nanko plums, carefully soaked in a neutral spirit and rock sugar to preserve its pure fruit essence.
• - Plumity White: This wine is crafted using junmai ginjo sake, offering a refreshing and fruity flavor profile—a delightful choice for wine enthusiasts.
• - Plumity Green: Made from the rare Suikou variety, this wine boasts a unique pear-like aroma, achieved through a shorter aging process that enhances its tropical notes.
• - Plumity Pink: This innovative blend features a new hybrid plum called Tsuyuakane, renowned for its ruby-red hue and delectable tartness, creating a balanced and flavorful wine experience.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, three varieties of plum syrup will also be available for tasting, showcasing the sweetness and refreshing acidity of the plums.

Take Home the Essence of Minabe

To ensure that the experience lingers even after returning home, participants will be presented with a special plum-themed gift, adding a personal touch to the memorable journey. During their stay at the Grand Mercure, guests can also indulge in a variety of plum-inspired dishes at the resort’s restaurants and lounges, making this an all-inclusive culinary adventure.

Program Details

• - Dates: January 22–31, February 19–March 7, 2026
• - Price: Starting from 20,955 yen per person (for a Superior Twin Ocean View room for two)
• - Includes: Guided farm tour, tasting of four Plumity wines, souvenir gift, one night’s accommodation, buffet dinner and breakfast, lounge access, and onsen (hot spring) facilities.
• - Tour Duration: Approximately 2 hours (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
• - Booking: Reservations can be made at the official Grand Mercure website.

This meaningful tour is designed to deepen your appreciation for Minabe's plums, enhancing both your understanding and enjoyment of this cherished fruit through direct interaction with the producers. Whether you're a food enthusiast, nature lover, or simply curious about other cultures, this experience promises to be unforgettable.