Uji in Kyoto is a wonderful area steeped in Japanese culture and history, and its beauty is especially enhanced with the arrival of autumn.
Uji is famous for its matcha green tea and historical buildings, but in autumn, the autumn leaves and natural beauty add to the truly spectacular scenery.
The experience of wearing a traditional kimono and enjoying the atmosphere of the ancient capital and its autumn scenery is an essential part of sightseeing in Japan.
In this article, we will introduce autumn attractions in Uji, recommended places to visit in kimono, and even kimono rentals.
Autumn attractions in Uji
Uji is famous for its autumn foliage, which makes the scenery look like a painting in autumn.
The autumn leaves along the river are reflected in the water, and the emotional landscape attracts visitors.
Uji is also attractive because it is relatively less crowded than sightseeing spots in Kyoto City, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn leaves in a relaxed atmosphere.
Some of Uji’s sightseeing spots, such as Ujigami Shrine and Byodoin Phoenix Hall, are registered as World Heritage sites, allowing visitors to enjoy both nature and historical architecture in autumn.
Strolling along the Uji River
The area along the Uji River is known as a spot where the autumn leaves are very beautiful.
Walking along the riverside promenade, you can not only admire the autumn leaves, but also enjoy the flow of the river and the chirping of birds.
Walking along the promenade in kimono is especially recommended, and the uniquely Japanese atmosphere is further enhanced.
World Heritage Site “Byodoin Phoenix Hall
The Byodoin Phoenix Hall is a famous structure that is depicted on the 10-yen coin.
During the fall foliage season, the surrounding trees change color and enhance the beauty of the Phoenix Hall.
Especially in the evening, the hall is illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
Visitors dressed in kimonos will feel as if they have stepped back in time.
Ujigami Shrine
Ujigami Shrine is a World Heritage-listed historic shrine and one of the oldest existing shrine buildings.
During the season of autumn leaves, the shrine’s surroundings are tinged with red and yellow, creating a quiet and solemn atmosphere.
If you visit the shrine in kimono, the prestigious atmosphere of the shrine combined with the autumn scenery will make for a special experience.
Anaerobic spots: quiet places to enjoy autumn foliage
Uji has a relatively small number of tourists, making it attractive for visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage in many quiet, secluded spots.
Below are some of the most recommended places.
Asagiri Bridge
Asagiri Bridge over the Uji River is a spot visited by many people during the autumn foliage season, but it is a relatively wide bridge, so you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about crowds.
The view of the autumn leaves from the bridge is breathtaking, and the harmony of the river and the cityscape of Uji offers a beautiful scene.
There are also restaurants and cafes around Asagiri Bridge, making it a convenient place to take a break after a stroll.
Agata Shrine
Agata Shrine is a quiet shrine in Uji with few tourists, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn leaves in a calm atmosphere.
The shrine grounds are surrounded by a beautiful garden, which is decorated with autumn leaves in fall.
The sacred atmosphere of the shrine and the autumn leaves are in harmony, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful time.
Jodoin
Jodoin Temple is one of the best spots in Uji to enjoy the autumn leaves in a quiet environment with few tourists.
The garden is especially beautiful, and the red and yellow leaves decorating the grounds are very tasteful.
If you visit the temple in kimono, you can enjoy even more Japanese-style scenery.
Enjoy Uji in Autumn with Kimono Rentals
Renting a kimono in Uji and touring the city in traditional Japanese attire is an exciting way to enjoy the city.
Visiting historical places in kimono will give you a special experience that is different from ordinary sightseeing.
Our [Rental Kimono Mai] is one of the most popular kimono rental stores in Uji.
Our reputation can be confirmed by reviews on Googlemap.
We have a wide variety of kimono designs for you to choose from according to your sightseeing scene. Especially in the fall, many kimonos are in shades that look great against the autumn leaves, and will surely look great in photos.
The staff will carefully dress you, so even first-timers can feel at ease.
Even kimono beginners can easily enjoy the kimono experience.
We also offer optional hair setting services that suit kimono wearers, allowing them to enjoy a more authentic Japanese beauty style.
Please inquire from [Reservations] on the menu bar at the bottom of the page.
Rental Flow
- Reservation: Many rental stores allow advance reservations. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the fall foliage season, as it is very crowded.
- Selection of Kimono and Dressing: Upon arrival, choose a kimono of your choice and have a professional staff member dress you.
- Walking: Once you are dressed, head directly to one of Uji’s sightseeing spots. Don’t forget your camera, as the autumn scenery and kimonos are photo-worthy.
- Return: When you have finished sightseeing, return your kimono by the designated time. After returning the kimono, you may take a break at a café or restaurant.
Recommended Gourmet Experiences in Uji
Uji is famous for its matcha, and enjoying a hot cup of matcha during the season of autumn leaves is a treat.
There are many cafes and restaurants where you can stop by between sightseeing tours and enjoy Japanese sweets and Uji tea.
Nakamura Tokichi Honten
Nakamura Tokichi Honten is a long-established Uji tea shop, and its matcha-based sweets and matcha soba noodles are popular.
It also offers matcha sweets only available in autumn, making it the perfect place to take a break while viewing the autumn leaves.
The Uji matcha parfait is especially exquisite and popular among tourists.
Ito Kyuemon
Ito Kyuemon is another famous Uji matcha green tea store that offers a wide variety of matcha sweets.
There is also a limited menu to coincide with the arrival of autumn, allowing you to enjoy delicious matcha sweets with a sense of the season.
The atmosphere of the store matches the atmosphere of the kimono, making it an even more special place to visit.
Discover the history and culture of Uji
Uji has flourished since the Heian period (794-1192), and its history and culture are deeply rooted in the city.
Along with the autumn foliage, it is recommended to learn about the history of Uji while sightseeing.
By strolling around in kimono and thinking back to the Heian period, you will feel as if you have crossed the boundaries of time and space.
The Tale of Genji Museum
Uji is also the setting of “The Tale of Genji,” and at the Tale of Genji Museum, visitors can learn about the culture and literature of the Heian period.
The museum also exhibits the lives and costumes of the aristocrats of the time, and visitors dressed in kimonos can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Heian-era aristocrats.
Matcha Culture in Uji
Uji is one of Japan’s leading producers of matcha green tea, and its production process and history are unique.
By experiencing matcha culture, you will feel the depth of Uji’s history and culture.
There are also facilities where visitors can experience making matcha by hand, which is especially recommended for those interested in traditional Japanese culture.
Summary
A kimono walk in Uji in autumn is a special sightseeing experience where you can enjoy Japanese traditions and the beauty of nature at the same time.
Why not spend an extraordinary time enjoying the autumn leaves at a World Heritage site or a quiet spot with delicious Uji matcha green tea sweets?