Uji City is located in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture and is loved by many tourists as a region that combines traditional Japanese culture and natural beauty.
In particular, the area around Uji Station is dotted with stores and spots related to Byodoin Temple, the Uji River, and Uji green tea, where visitors can enjoy both historical charm and delicious gourmet food.
World Heritage Site Byodoin
Byodoin, a World Heritage Site, is a must-see when visiting Uji.
Built in the late Heian period (794-1192), this temple is known for its architecture symbolizing the Paradise of the Pure Land, and its beautiful phoenixes are impressive.
Inside the Phoenix Hall, visitors can admire a seated statue of Amida Nyorai and enjoy Buddhist art of the time.
In addition, the Byodoin Museum Hoshokan, located on the grounds, exhibits Buddhist statues and ornaments of the Phoenix Hall, giving visitors a taste of history.
When visiting Byodoin, be sure to take a walk in the surrounding gardens. The garden, with its seasonal flowers in full bloom, is a quiet and peaceful place to spend time.
Uji River and Uji Bridge
Located within walking distance from Uji Station, the Uji River is a place of historical significance as well as beautiful scenery.
A stroll along the Uji River will allow you to enjoy the murmuring of the river and the lush green nature.
In addition, the Uji Bridge, which is considered one of the oldest bridges in Japan, evokes a long history that dates back to the Heian period (794-1192).
Taking pictures with the river in the background is recommended on the Uji River.
Especially in the evening, the sunset reflected on the surface of the river is exceptionally beautiful.
In summer, the Uji River also hosts a cormorant fishing event, where visitors can observe the traditional fishing method up close.
Tour of famous Uji matcha green tea stores
Uji is famous for its matcha (powdered green tea).
Around Uji Station, there are many matcha-related stores where you can enjoy authentic matcha sweets and tea.
We also have a tea room experience plan with rental kimonos, so please take advantage of this plan. (Advance reservation required)
Tsujirihei Honten
Tsujirihei Honten is a long-established store known for its Uji matcha.
Here, you can enjoy sweets using matcha, such as matcha parfait and matcha soft serve ice cream.
Matcha itself is also available for purchase, making it an ideal souvenir.
Nakamura Fujiyoshi Honten
At Nakamura Tokichi Honten, you can enjoy creative dishes and sweets using matcha green tea.
Particularly popular is the fresh tea jelly.
It is a great way to taste tea while experiencing a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
Chabo Tsuen
Located near Byodoin Temple, Chabo Tsuen is a teahouse that has been in business for many years, serving delicious matcha green tea and dumplings.
Tasting matcha in this historic building is an exceptional experience.
Ujigami Shrine and Uji Shrine
Uji is also dotted with a number of shrines of great historical value.
Among them, Ujigami Shrine and Uji Shrine are the most important ones to visit.
Ujigami Shrine
Ujigami Shrine is a World Heritage-listed shrine that preserves the architectural style of the Heian period (794-1192).
The deity is an island in the adjacent Uji River, which gives the shrine a mysterious atmosphere.
The beauty of the wooden architecture and the tranquility of the space are soothing.
Uji Shrine
Uji Shrine is a shrine that is believed to be beneficial for academic success and matchmaking.
The beautiful vermilion-lacquered torii gate and worship hall on the shrine grounds make it a popular photo spot.
The shrine is also recommended for its red seal book and good luck charms.
Discover the charm of traditional crafts
Uji is famous for Asahi-yaki pottery, which developed along with the culture of powdered green tea.
At the Asahi Pottery Studio, visitors can learn traditional pottery techniques and actually make their own pottery.
The pottery, which includes matcha bowls and teacups, evokes Uji’s matcha culture, and makes a great souvenir for yourself.
Uji Park
Located in the middle of the Uji River, Uji Park is a spacious park with cherry blossoms and autumnal foliage, offering beautiful scenery each season.
There are two islands in the park, “Tonojima” and “Tachibanajima,” where visitors can stroll while enjoying the view of Byodoin Temple and the Uji River.
The park also has a statue of Murasaki Shikibu and monuments related to the Tale of Genji, which give visitors a sense of the literary history of the area.
Points to enjoy sightseeing in Uji
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes from Kyoto Station by JR Nara Line. Once you get off at Uji Station, you will find a collection of sightseeing spots within walking distance.
- Best season: The best time to visit is when the cherry blossoms are at their best in spring and the autumn leaves are at their best in fall. You can also enjoy cormorant fishing on the Uji River in summer.
- Souvenirs: Sweets using Uji green tea, the tea itself, and Asahi-yaki ceramics are popular.
Summary
The area around Uji Station is filled with a variety of attractions, including historical architecture, beautiful nature, and authentic Uji matcha tea experiences.
You are sure to have a relaxing and enriching time sightseeing throughout the day.
Why not visit Uji on your next trip to Kyoto?