Shojuin Temple in Ujitawara-cho is known for its beautiful scenery and unique heart-shaped small windows.
The temple is also known as “Fu-ring-dera,” or “wind-bell temple,” and hundreds of wind-bells are displayed in the temple during the summer, attracting visitors with their sounds.
The grounds of Shojuin are home to a beautiful garden and quaint buildings where visitors can spend a relaxing time.
Heart-shaped small window
The most prominent feature of Shojuin is a small heart-shaped window in one of the rooms of the Kyakuden.
The scenery seen through this small window changes with the seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of each season.
The scenery is different throughout the year: cherry blossoms in spring, lush foliage in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.
This small heart-shaped window is also a popular power spot for romance and matchmaking.
Shojuin as a Wind-bell Temple
Shoju-in Temple is also called “Fu-ring Temple,” and hundreds of wind chimes are hung in the temple during the summer.
The sound of the wind chimes makes people feel cool in the hot summer and provides a pleasant moment for visitors.
The wind chimes come in a variety of designs, each with a different sound.
The wind chimes are also available for sale and are popular as souvenirs.
Enjoy Shojuin in Kimono
When visiting Shojuin, please enjoy wearing a kimono.
Walking around the temple grounds in a kimono, you will become one with the scenery and feel the traditional beauty of Japan even more.
You can rent a kimono at our store and take a special bus departing from JR Uji Station right in front of the temple, so you can easily enjoy wearing a kimono.
Cabs are also convenient if you are going with more than one person.
It is also a great place for taking pictures and is popular as a spot for social networking sites such as Instagram.
Access to Shojuin from JR Uji Station
Access by bus from JR Uji Station
It is convenient to take a bus from JR Uji Station to Shoju-in Temple.
Take the Kyoto Keihan Bus from the bus stop in front of Uji Station and arrive at the Ishinchu-mae bus stop in about 40 minutes.
From the bus stop, it takes about 15 minutes to reach Shoju-in on foot.
Take a cab
For more comfortable access, you can take a cab from JR Uji Station.
The cab ride takes about 30 minutes and costs about 6,000 yen one way or about 12,000 yen round trip.
(Round-trip fare for two passengers is about 6,000 yen per person, round-trip fare for three passengers is about 4,000 yen per person, and round-trip fare for four passengers is about 3,000 yen per person.
It is recommended to inform the cab driver of your destination in advance.
Access by car
If you are visiting by car, it takes about 20 minutes from the Uji-Nishi IC of the Keiji Bypass to reach Shojuin.
A parking lot is available for easy access by car.
Sightseeing Spots around Shojuin
When you visit Shojuin, please enjoy the surrounding sightseeing spots as well.
Uji Tea Village
Uji-Tawaracho is famous for its Uji tea.
Cafes and souvenir shops are scattered throughout the area where you can enjoy Uji tea.
Uji River
Along the Uji River, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery, strolling and boating.
The river is especially crowded with tourists during the cherry blossom season.
Byodoin Phoenix Hall
Byodoin Phoenix Hall, located near JR Uji Station, is a World Heritage Site and well worth a visit.
Its beautiful architecture and garden are a must-see.
Conclusion
Shojuin is a spot that soothes visitors with its beautiful scenery and the sound of wind chimes.
Please visit this place to experience the traditional beauty of Japan, such as the small heart-shaped windows and strolling in kimono.
It is easily accessible from JR Uji Station, and there are many other tourist attractions in the area.
It is a wonderful place to spend a heartwarming moment.