In Uji, most of the sights are located near the town center, close to the famous Byodoin Temple and the scenic Uji River. You can easily explore this area on foot. Both JR Uji Station and Keihan Uji Station are about a 10-minute walk from Byodoin Temple. JR Uji is on the south side of the river, while Keihan Uji is just across Uji Bridge on the north side.
The temples Mampukuji and Mimurotoji are farther from the center, but if you enjoy walking, you can reach them in about 30 minutes from the river area. Mampukuji is easiest to get to with a short walk from Obaku Station. To get to Mimurotoji Temple, buses are available from both JR and Keihan Uji Stations.
5
Uji Travel Tips
—
★
★
★
★
★
—
5.0
(1 Review)
2 of 4 in Kyoto Prefecture
Uji (宇治) is a charming city nestled between Kyoto and Nara, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. As a cultural hub during the Heian Period, Uji boasts remarkable sites like Byodoin Temple, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ujigami Shrine, Japan's oldest surviving shrine. These treasures reflect the city’s deep-rooted history and architectural elegance, making Uji a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
Famous for its exceptional green tea, Uji is a paradise for tea lovers. The city gained acclaim for its high-quality tea since the 1200s, becoming a prominent center for cultivation. Visitors can explore picturesque tea houses, enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, and sample the finest Uji matcha. A trip to Uji promises a delightful blend of history, culture, and the serene beauty of Japan’s tea heritage.
Getting around
Attractions
See all-
1Byodoin TemplePhoenix Hall and Pure Land architecture
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
2Uji RiverHistoric bridge and Tale of Genji connections
-
3Uji TeaBirthplace of Japanese green tea
-
4Mampukuji TempleChinese-style Zen temple in Uji
-
5Ujigami ShrineOldest standing shrine in Japan
-
6Koshoji TempleStunning autumn maple tunnel
-
7Mimurotoji TempleFlower temple with seasonal blooms
-
8Nintendo MuseumNintendo’s history and interactive exhibits
-
9Taihoan Tea HouseAuthentic Japanese tea ceremony experience
-
10Fukujuen Ujicha KoboHands-on matcha grinding and tea workshops
Events
Nearby
See all-
1KyotoKyoto was for a 1000 years the capital of Japan
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
2NaraKnown as Japan's first capital
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
3OsakaOsaka is Japan's second-largest metropolitan
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
4KokaA rural city known as the homeland of the ninja
-
5Iga UenoKnown for its rich history and ninja heritage
-
6YoshinoJapan's most famous cherry blossom spot
-
7KobeHarbor city, recovered from the 1995 earthquake
-
8Omi HachimanFormer merchant town that is known for its pretty canal
-
9HikoneCastle town at the shores of Lake Biwa
Reviews
-
5/5 - Excellent
Uji is a charming city in Kyoto Prefecture, perfect for anyone who loves history and culture. The famous Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is breathtaking and offers a peaceful experience. Uji is also known for its high-quality green tea, and you can enjoy it in various local shops and cafes. The Uji River adds to the serene atmosphere, with beautiful views and walking paths. It’s a great spot for a day trip from Kyoto, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and traditional Japanese culture.
2 months ago — by Wesley