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Ujigami Jinja, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Discover Ujigami Shrine in Uji, Kyoto: A serene UNESCO site and Japan's oldest Shinto shrine, dating back to 1060.

Ujigami Shrine, nestled in Uji, Kyoto, is believed to be Japan's oldest standing Shinto shrine, dating back to approximately 1060. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a serene escape from the bustling city and a glimpse into ancient Japanese architecture and religious practices.

A brief summary to Ujigami Jinja

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Combine your visit with nearby Byodo-in Temple and Uji Shrine for a comprehensive cultural experience.
  • Look for the rabbit motifs throughout the shrine, a nod to local mythology.
  • Visit during spring or autumn to witness the beautiful natural scenery surrounding the shrine.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the Kiriharasui spring, one of Uji's renowned pure water sources.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Byodo-in Temple, walk north across the Uji River via the bridge to Tou-no-shima Island. Continue across the island and over the next bridge, then walk a short distance further to Ujigami Shrine, located at the base of the hill. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Keihan Uji Station, walk south along the Uji River for about 10 minutes. The shrine will appear on a hillside to your left. From JR Uji Station, walk approximately 15 minutes towards the Uji River and then follow the signs to Ujigami Shrine. Local train fare from Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station is approximately ¥240.

Discover more about Ujigami Jinja

Ujigami Shrine, located in Uji, Kyoto, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and believed to be the oldest original Shinto shrine in Japan. Established around 1060 during the Heian period, it served as the guardian shrine for the nearby Byodo-in Temple. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Ojin and his sons, Prince Uji no Wakiiratsuko and Emperor Nintoku. Prince Uji no Wakiiratsuko committed suicide to resolve a dispute over the imperial succession, and the shrine was built in his honor.The main hall (honden) is a prime example of nagare-zukuri architecture, characterized by its curved, asymmetrical roof extending over the main entrance. The shrine also features the Haiden (prayer hall), dating back to the Kamakura period, and the Kasuga Shrine. A unique aspect of Ujigami Shrine is the Kiriharasui spring, one of Uji's seven famous pure water sources, used in traditional tea ceremonies.Despite its historical significance, Ujigami Shrine offers a tranquil atmosphere, often overlooked by tourists flocking to Byodo-in Temple. The shrine's grounds showcase a deep reverence for nature, blending seamlessly with the surrounding wooded hills. Visitors can also find rabbit motifs throughout the shrine, stemming from a myth about a divine rabbit guiding a lost prince. Exploring Ujigami Shrine provides an immersive experience into Japan's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

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