Here’s your essential travel guide for Uji, Japan—a beautiful, serene city just south of Kyoto, famous for its green tea, ancient temples, and connection to Japanese literature. 🍵🌸
🌟 Top Things to Do in Uji, Japan
1. Visit Byodoin Temple (平等院)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Famous Phoenix Hall featured on the 10 yen coin.
- Peaceful gardens and a museum showcasing Buddhist art.
🕘 Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
🎟️ Entry: Around ¥600
2. Try Uji Matcha (宇治抹茶) Everything
- Uji is the green tea capital of Japan.
- Enjoy matcha soft serve, lattes, soba noodles, parfaits, and even curry!
- Must-visit: Tsuen Tea (since 1160) – Japan’s oldest tea shop.
3. Walk Along the Uji River
- Scenic stroll with views of red bridges, cherry blossoms (spring), and fall foliage.
- Peaceful path between Ujigami Shrine and Byodoin Temple.
- Great spot for a tea break or a riverside picnic.
4. Explore Ujigami Shrine (宇治上神社)
- Japan’s oldest standing Shinto shrine.
- Beautiful, quiet, spiritual atmosphere.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site.
🕘 Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
🎟️ Free entry
5. Tale of Genji Museum (源氏物語ミュージアム)
- Uji is the setting for the final chapters of The Tale of Genji.
- Interactive exhibits about the world’s first novel and Heian period culture.
🎟️ Entry: Around ¥500
🕘 Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed Mondays)
6. Tea Ceremony Experience
- Join a traditional tea ceremony using local Uji matcha.
- Options available at cultural centers or tea houses like Taiho-an.
7. Taste Local Cuisine
- Try dishes infused with matcha or local river fish.
- Recommended: Unagi (eel) restaurants by the river.
8. Visit Obaku-san Manpuku-ji Temple
- Zen temple with Chinese Ming-dynasty-style architecture.
- Less touristy and very atmospheric.
🛍️ Where to Shop
- Uji Omotesando: Souvenir shops, tea stores, and snack stands.
- Look for matcha sweets, ceramics, and tea utensils.
🚆 How to Get There
- From Kyoto Station: Take the JR Nara Line (20–30 min).
- From Osaka: About 1 hour by JR or Keihan lines.
🛏️ Where to Stay
- Stay overnight in Uji for a peaceful experience, especially if you want to enjoy early mornings by the river.
- Options include traditional ryokan, small hotels, or guesthouses.
🌸 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (late March – early April) for cherry blossoms 🌸
- Autumn (late October – November) for vibrant fall colors 🍁
