Cherry Blossoms and Cultural Wonders: Exploring Kyoto with Friends

Finding Peace in Uji: A Day of Temples and Tea

Today, I ventured beyond the bustling streets of Kyoto with my friends, seeking a more tranquil experience in the charming city of Uji. Known for its exquisite green tea and historic landmarks, Uji promised a day of cultural immersion and serene exploration, and it certainly delivered.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Alice On Wednesday. The cafe's whimsical decor, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, was a fun and quirky start to our morning. It felt a world away from the traditional Japanese aesthetic we'd been surrounded by, a playful nod to another kind of fantasy. After a quick bite, we hopped on a train bound for Uji, eager to explore its famed temples and tea houses.


Discover whimsical fashion accessories and delectable desserts at Alice On Wednesday in Osaka's lively Nishishinsaibashi district.

Our first stop was the magnificent Byodoin Temple. The temple, initially built in 998 as a countryside retreat villa, was transformed into a Buddhist temple in 1052. The Phoenix Hall, constructed in 1053, stood majestically before us, its reflection shimmering in the pond. The intricate details of the hall, with its phoenix statues gracing the roof, were breathtaking. It felt as though we had stepped back in time, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Pure Land Paradise.


Explore Byodoin Temple in Uji, Kyoto - a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and rich cultural heritage.

Exploring the Hoshokan Museum was a highlight, allowing us to delve deeper into the temple's history and admire its invaluable artifacts, including Buddhist sculptures and intricate artwork. Learning about the temple's past and its significance in Japanese culture enriched our experience, making us appreciate the beauty before us even more.

The beauty of Byodoin Temple lies not only in its architectural splendor but also in its ability to transport visitors to a realm of peace and spiritual reflection.

Next, we strolled towards Uji Shrine, a serene sanctuary nestled on the banks of the Uji River. Founded in 313 AD, it is dedicated to the deity Uji-no-Waki-iratsuko, son of Emperor Ojin. The main hall, built in the Kamakura period, exuded a sense of history and tranquility. As we wandered through the shrine grounds, we admired the wooden guardian dogs and Noh masks, each a testament to the shrine's rich cultural heritage. The air was filled with a sense of reverence, a reminder of the deep spiritual roots that permeate Japanese society.


Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual heritage of Uji Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan.

Just a short walk away, we discovered Ujigami Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site believed to be the oldest extant Shinto shrine in Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the deities associated with Emperor Ojin and his sons. Its architecture, though simple, reflected the understated beauty of early Shinto design. The peaceful atmosphere of Ujigami Shrine was a welcome respite, a place to pause and reflect amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding hills.

Our exploration continued with a leisurely walk across Uji Bridge, one of Japan's oldest bridges. First erected in 646 by the Buddhist Priest Doto, it has been rebuilt many times. From the bridge, we enjoyed panoramic views of the Uji River and the surrounding landscape. The gentle breeze and the sound of the flowing water created a sense of serenity, a perfect moment of connection with nature.


Explore Uji Bridge in Kyoto: A historical landmark offering scenic views, tranquility, and a taste of local culture amidst beautiful landscapes.

At the foot of the bridge, I noticed a charming tea house, its owner diligently serving tea and watching over the bridge, a tradition passed down through generations. The bridge is also the setting for the final ten chapters of *The Tale of Genji*. As someone deeply passionate about intercultural dialogue, I found myself contemplating the bridge’s historical significance and its role in connecting people and cultures throughout the centuries.

For lunch, we had planned to visit Biwako Terrace, anticipating stunning lake views. However, given it was quite a distance and required a ropeway ride, we decided to stay closer to Uji and explore local tea houses instead. We stumbled upon a delightful little place where we savored Uji's famed matcha. The rich, earthy flavor of the tea was a welcome treat, perfectly complementing the delicate sweets that accompanied it. I even learned a bit about the art of tea preparation, a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture.


Experience breathtaking views and delightful flavors at Biwako Terrace - a serene café overlooking Lake Biwa.

After our tea experience, we indulged in some matcha sweets, a delightful array of treats that showcased the versatility of Uji's green tea. From matcha ice cream to matcha daifuku, each bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the region's expertise in tea cultivation and culinary innovation. I was particularly impressed by the Uji Komochimo, which combined matcha, mochi, and walnuts in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

As evening approached, we made our way back to Kyoto, but not before experiencing Uji's nightlife at Concrete Bar. The bar had a unique and cozy vibe, tucked away in a small corridor with amazing decor. We sat on cushions in the upstairs area and enjoyed our drinks, served by the friendly bartender through the railings. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration, a chance to relax and reflect on our experiences.


Discover the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Concrete Bar, where cocktails flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.

Before heading back to our hotel, we enjoyed a Kaiseki dinner at Kikunoi Roan, savoring the intricate flavors and artistic presentation of each dish. The Kaiseki experience was a feast for the senses, a celebration of seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry. Each dish told a story, a reflection of Japan's rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions.


Experience the art of kaiseki dining at Kikunoi Roan in Kyoto - where seasonal flavors meet exquisite presentation.

As I sit here now, writing about our day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we shared in Uji. It was a day of temples, tea, and tranquility, a journey into the heart of Japanese culture and history. The serene beauty of Byodoin Temple, the peaceful atmosphere of Uji Shrine, and the delightful flavors of Uji's green tea will forever be etched in my memory.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Kyoto's cultural treasures, including Heian Shrine, Maruyama Park, and Chionin Temple. I'm particularly excited about visiting Heian Shrine, with its stunning architecture and serene gardens. I'm also looking forward to strolling through Maruyama Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. And of course, I can't wait to savor more of Kyoto's culinary delights, with plans to dine at Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant Mouriya Gion for lunch and Nakamura for dinner.

As I prepare for another day of adventure, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and connecting with different cultures. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about opening our minds and hearts to the world around us.

Before I close, I must share a quote that seems to encapsulate the essence of today's journey:

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Until tomorrow,
Fatima

P.S. I almost forgot! While in Uji, I learned that the KYOTOGRAPHIE International Photography Festival is currently taking place in Kyoto. It’s an annual event that showcases photography from around the world. I’m hoping to catch some of the exhibits in the coming days, adding another layer to our cultural exploration of this beautiful city.