Uji, Kyoto: A Hidden Gem of Japanese Culture and Tradition

When it comes to cultural significance and natural beauty, few places in Japan punch above their weight class—as far as travel destinations go—more than the small city of Uji located in southern Kyoto Prefecture. With a history dating back over a thousand years, Uji is renowned for its legendary matcha, historic sites, and peaceful nature.

Located between the ancient capital cities of Kyoto and Nara, Uji is an often-overlooked travel destination with a rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery. Best known for the world-famous matcha produced there, Uji offers a range of uniquely immersive and serene experiences for travelers, from exploring historic temples to walking the scenic paths of the Uji River. Whether you’re a history buff, lover of matcha and green tea, or simply looking for a less crowded Kyoto day trip, Uji is the perfect addition to your Japan travel itinerary.

A Step into the Past

One of the most culturally significant places in Uji is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Byodo-in. Built in 998, Byodo-in is one of Japan’s most famous Buddhist temples, boasting the stunning Phoenix Hall, a structure built to appear as if it is floating atop a reflecting pond. In fact, it is so iconic that this architectural masterpiece is featured on the back of the Japanese 10-yen coin.

Although Byodo-in is stunning year-round, it is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom, or sakura, season and in the fall when the autumn foliage is out in full force. Be sure to visit the attached museum to get a chance to see original Buddhist statues and historical artifacts unique to Uji.

The Uji River: More Than a Scenic Stroll

Cutting through the heart of Uji City, the Uji River offers visitors the perfect setting for a leisurely, picturesque stroll. Not to mention, in the spring, the cherry blossom trees lining the banks of the river truly make for one of Japan’s most stunning hanami—flower viewing—spots. All along the riverside paths, you’ll find traditional teahouses and charming bridges, adding to the peaceful beauty of Uji.

Also, for history buffs, a stroll along the Uji River offers an opportunity to see one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, Ujigami Shrine, another UNESCO site. And just beyond that lies a museum dedicated to the world’s first novel, the Tale of Genji Museum, which features Uji as a main setting in its last chapters.

The Matcha Capital of Japan

While history and culture are enticing enough reasons to make the Kyoto day trip to Uji, no visit to the area can be complete without tasting some of Uji’s premium matcha. Known the world over as the birthplace of Japanese green tea culture, Uji’s high-quality matcha has been cultivated since the 13th century. It is still commonly sought out as a go-to tea for Japanese tea ceremonies today.

Drinking Uji green tea is only one of the tea-related experiences Uji has to offer. Visitors can enjoy matcha tasting experiences, go on tea-picking tours, and participate in a tea ceremony at one of the many historic teahouses throughout the city. Green tea comes in many forms in Uji, as well, from matcha ice cream to green tea soba noodles.

Getting to Uji

One of the biggest advantages to visiting Uji is how close it is to some of Japan’s top travel destinations. Just a 20-minute train ride from Kyoto Station and a 30-minute ride from Osaka, Uji makes for the perfect day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. It can be a more peaceful alternative to the hectic, tourist-heavy streets of Kyoto, while offering the wonderful blend of history, nature, and culinary experiences as discussed above, truly making it a must-visit destination in any Kyoto travel guide!

About the author: 

Kevin Kilcoyne

The spark that lit Kevin Kilcoyne’s interest in Japanese culture began in elementary school through a friendship with his then classmate Keisuke. Since then, that passion has evolved and bloomed to encompass more than just video games and manga, leading Kevin to live in Japan as a participant of the JET program. During his time in Japan, Kevin sought out as many foods as he could, the experiences and taste memories lingering long after they had gone. Now he is forging a path to link his passions for Japanese food, history, and visual culture and is planning for his return to live in Japan once again. For now, you can find Kevin on Instagram (@waruishouten) where he posts his photography and illustration work. Keep an eye out for more posts and updates as Kevin delves more deeply into his passions for writing and food.