The entire city of Toyohashi in Aichi Prefecture was certified as a “Wine Special Zone” on Monday, June 9, 2025.
The designation makes it easier for small-scale businesses to take on winemaking and is expected to contribute to further regional revitalization.
Here are the details.
About the Toyohashi Wine Special Zone
Toyohashi City in Aichi Prefecture used Japan’s National Strategic Special Zone framework to apply to the national government for special regulatory measures.
On June 9, 2025, it was officially certified by the Prime Minister as the “Toyohashi Wine Special Zone.”
As a result, fruit wine made from grapes and persimmons produced within the city can now be manufactured in smaller quantities than before, lowering the barrier to entry for small-scale operators.
Fruit Wine Production Possible from 2 Kiloliters per Year
Previously, businesses seeking a manufacturing license to produce fruit wine from grapes or persimmons designated as local specialties in Toyohashi were required to produce 6 kiloliters per year.
With certification as the Toyohashi Wine Special Zone, that threshold has been relaxed to 2 kiloliters.
The previous 6-kiloliter requirement is equivalent to about 8,000 standard 750-milliliter wine bottles. Reducing that amount to one-third makes it much easier for small businesses to enter the market.
The designation is also expected to help address agricultural challenges such as attracting new farmers and utilizing idle farmland, while encouraging new branding that makes use of local resources and tourism businesses centered on wine, further expanding awareness of Toyohashi’s appeal.
The day when Toyohashi becomes a new renowned wine region may not be too far away.
Reference
Overview of the “Toyohashi Wine Special Zone”
■ Name of special regulatory measure: Production of local specialty alcoholic beverages
■ Target area: Entire city of Toyohashi
■ Certification date: June 9, 2025