Uji, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

Discover Uji: Ancient temples, exquisite matcha, and 'Tale of Genji' charm await in this tranquil Kyoto Prefecture gem.

Nestled between Kyoto and Nara, Uji offers a serene escape with its UNESCO World Heritage sites, lush tea fields, and historical connections to 'The Tale of Genji'. Explore ancient temples, savor exquisite green tea, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming city.

A brief summary to Uji

Uji, Kyoto, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Uji.

Sample Uji's famous green tea in various forms, from traditional matcha to tea-flavored noodles and ice cream.
Visit Byodo-in Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully appreciate its serene beauty.
Stroll along the Uji River and enjoy the picturesque scenery, especially during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
Explore Byodo-in Omotesando Street for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Consider attending a tea ceremony to experience the traditional art of Japanese tea preparation and appreciation.

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Explore Uji on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Uji, mapped for you.

Getting There

Train

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station. The rapid train takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around ¥240-¥370. From Uji Station, most major sights are within a 15-20 minute walk. Alternatively, the Keihan Railway connects Kyoto to Keihan Uji Station, which is a short walk from Ujibashi Bridge. This route takes about 30 minutes and costs around ¥350. This route is not covered by the JR Pass.
Bus

From Keihan Uji Station, take a Keihan Uji bus to Mimurotoji Temple. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Check local bus schedules for current fares.
Walking

From either JR Uji Station or Keihan Uji Station, it's a pleasant walk to Byodo-in Temple and other attractions. From JR Uji Station, walk north towards the Uji River, then follow the signs to Byodo-in. From Keihan Uji Station, cross the Uji Bridge and continue along Byodo-in Omotesando Street to reach the temple. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes.

Discover more about Uji

Uji, a city south of Kyoto, beckons travelers with its rich history, cultural significance, and world-renowned green tea. Situated between the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, Uji flourished as a cultural center, particularly during the Heian period. The city is easily accessible from Kyoto by train, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city.Uji is celebrated as the setting for the final chapters of 'The Tale of Genji,' an 11th-century literary masterpiece considered the world's first novel. The Uji River flows through the city, adding to its scenic beauty and providing a sense of serenity. Visitors can stroll along the riverbank, visit the Ukifune statue, and imagine the story's poignant scenes unfolding in this idyllic setting.Two UNESCO World Heritage sites grace Uji: Byodo-in Temple and Ujigami Shrine. Byodo-in Temple, with its iconic Phoenix Hall, is a stunning example of Heian-period architecture and artistry. The temple is so revered that its image is featured on the Japanese 10-yen coin. Ujigami Shrine, believed to be Japan's oldest extant Shinto shrine, offers a glimpse into the country's ancient religious practices.Uji is also synonymous with high-quality green tea. The region's favorable climate and geography have made it a prime location for tea cultivation since the 12th century. Visitors can explore tea shops, sample matcha-infused delicacies, and participate in tea ceremonies to fully appreciate Uji's tea culture.