Introduction
Uji, a charming riverside destination in Kyoto Prefecture, combines scenic beauty with rich histories. Known for its contributions to Japanese tea culture, Uji attracts visitors with its well-preserved temples and shrines. In this article, you will learn the detail of this tranquil town.
■ You Will Learn About…
・Tie to a Japanese Literature
・History and Speciality
・Popular Destination
City Profile
Location of Uji
Located between Kyoto and Nara, Uji (宇治) has evolved as a cultural hub, celebrated for its lush tea fields and historical sites. This small yet significant city is a haven for those looking to experience traditional Japanese tea culture, ancient literature, and serene temples. Its scenic Uji River and proximity to Kyoto make it a picturesque tourist stop.
Local Speciality
Uji Tea
Uji Tea is celebrated for its delicate taste and fragrance. As well as Kakegawa Tea, The tea culture in the city symbolises Japanese tea excellence. Grown in misty, fertile fields, its quality reflects centuries of perfected craftsmanship. Visitors can enjoy Matcha, Sencha, and Gyokuro, tasting the essence of Japan’s rich tea tradition in every cup.
Once you enter the Omotesando of Byodoin Temple, the aroma of roasted tea fills the air. The delicate fragrance makes you relaxed and fuels your experience in the city. Also, you should not forget to try the taste of foods from green tea. Especially, buckwheat noodles called “Chasoba” is popular with both locals and visitors.
Connection between “The Tale of Genji”
Uji holds a connection with “The Tale of Genji,” Japan’s classic work of literature by Murasaki Shikibu. The city is the setting for the final chapters, where the Uji River’s flowing beauty adds to the tale’s melancholy and intrigue. Statues and monuments dedicated to the characters can be found across the city.
The final chapter, “Uji Jujo (宇治十帖)” (Ten Uji Chapters), is set in the city. The choice of Uji as the setting is tied to its image as a forlorn land distant from the capital (Nara and Kyoto of today), reflecting the sorrowful fates of the story’s characters. At the same time, Uji also features the elegance of the Heian era, exemplified by the Byodoin Temple and the Uji River, offering a picturesque landscape that perfectly suits the tale’s setting.
Place to Visit
1. Byodoin Temple
Byodoin Temple (平等院) is an architectural masterpiece known for its Phoenix Hall, which graces the Japanese ten-yen coin. Dating back to the Heian period, the temple reflects the elegance of Japanese Buddhism and is surrounded by tranquil gardens. Visitors are enchanted by the temple’s beauty, with its reflection on the pond creating a picture-perfect view.
You should visit the Houshokan Museum (鳳翔館), which displays hundreds of exhibits showcasing the temple’s history and its prosperity. The Omotesando leading to the temple features a variety of shops offering unique tea products and fragrances. This iconic landmark embodies the serene spirit of Uji, making it a must-visit destination.
| INFOMATION | |
|---|---|
| Address | 116 Ujirenge, Uji, Kyoto How to get there? |
| Opening Hours | 8:30-17:30 (Door closes at 17:15) |
| Closed | It doesn’t have any fixed days off |
| Admission | Adult: 700 yen Child (13-18) : 400yen Child (til 12) : 300yen |
| Parking | Available |
| Transportations | 20 minutes walk from Uji Station |
| Official Site | https://www.byodoin.or.jp/en/ |
2. Uji and Ujigami Shrines
Uji Shrine (宇治神社) honors Emperor Ojin and attracts visitors with its serene atmosphere. Situated near Ujigami Shrine, it showcases traditional architecture and a tranquil location by the Uji River. Visitors can appreciate blessings for academic success and the shrine’s cultural significance and peaceful surroundings.
Ujigami Shrine (宇治上神社) or Ujikami Shrine, the oldest existing Shinto shrine in Japan, holds UNESCO World Heritage status and exemplifies early Japanese religious architecture. Built in the 11th century, it was a guardian shrine for Byodoin Temple. Visitors will be astonished that it has existed for 1,000 years without burning or decaying.
| INFOMATION (Ujigami Shrine) | |
|---|---|
| Address | 59 Ujiyamada, Uji, Kyoto How to get there? |
| Opening Hours | 09:00-16:00 |
| Closed | It doesn’t have any fixed days off |
| Admission | Free |
| Parking | Not Available |
| Transportations | 25 minutes walk from Uji Station |
| References | Ujigami Shrine – TripAdvisor |
3. Mimuroto Temple
Mimuroto Temple (三室戸寺) is affectionately known as the “Temple of Hydrangea” due to its spectacular hydrangea garden, which draws visitors each June when thousands of hydrangea blossoms burst into vibrant shades of blue, pink, and purple, covering over 20,000 square meters. The temple is also famous for its other seasonal blooming such as Lotus Flowers.
Additionally, the temple honors a statue of rabbits instead of Komainu. Many years ago, it was said that the Emperor of Uji was guided to this area by the creature. From this legend, people named this area “Uji (菟道)” (The road of rabbits) first and currently changed to “Uji(宇治)”. In this way, Uji also has a special connection between rabbits.
| INFOMATION | |
|---|---|
| Address | 21 Todoushigatani, Uji, Kyoto How to get there? |
| Opening Hours | 08:30-16:30 (Door closes at 15:40) It closes 30 minutes earlier between Nov. to Mar. |
| Closed | It doesn’t have any fixed days off |
| Admission | Until 2023 Adult: 500 yen Child: 300 yen From 2024 Adult: 1000 yen Child: 500 yen |
| Parking | You should go there by train and walk as spaces are too limited and narrow. |
| Transportations | 15 minutes walk from Mimuroto Station |
| References | Mimurotoji Temple – TripAdvisor |
Conclusion
From serene river views to iconic landmarks, Uji provides a genuine cultural experience. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for Japan’s traditional roots, carrying memories of the city’s quiet elegance and timeless allure.
The spirit of Uji is captured in its enduring beauty, symbolised by the Uji River flowing for thousands of years. This evergreen flow connects past to present, carrying with it the wisdom of ancient tea masters, the echoes of literary tales, and the serenity of nature. Uji’s charm lies in its ability to remain unchanged, Where Centuries of History Flow Gently Forward.
