── A Day of Serenity in the Town of Tea and World Heritage
Only about 30 minutes by train from central Kyoto,
Uji is a peaceful town known for its World Heritage sites—Byodo-in Temple and Ujigami Shrine—and its centuries-old matcha tea culture.
Unlike the bustling streets of Kyoto, Uji offers a slower rhythm, ideal for a calm, enriching day trip.
Here’s a suggested route to enjoy Uji efficiently in one day.
■ 9:00 Depart from Kyoto Station (JR Nara Line to Uji)
Take the JR Nara Line rapid train from Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station, about a 30-minute ride.
The fare is ¥240 one way (IC cards accepted), and trains run every 15–20 minutes, making access smooth and convenient.
■ 9:30–11:00 Byodo-in Temple (World Heritage)
No visit to Uji is complete without Byodo-in Temple, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks built in 1053.
Its Phoenix Hall, reflected on the pond’s surface under the morning light, captures the beauty of “Pure Land Paradise.”
Inside the grounds, the Hoshokan Museum displays National Treasures such as the phoenix statues and celestial Buddhist figures.
Garden and museum admission is ¥700 (¥400 for middle/high school students, ¥300 for children),
and an additional ¥300 ticket is required to enter the Phoenix Hall interior.
【Access】Approx. 10 min walk from JR Uji Station
【Duration】1–1.5 hours
【Highlights】Wisteria (Apr–May), autumn foliage (Nov), early-morning reflections
■ 11:15–12:30 Matcha Lunch and Sweet Treats
After exploring Byodo-in, stroll along Ujibashi-dori Street for lunch.
The aroma of freshly ground tea fills the air as historic teahouses line the street.
Recommended Spots
- Nakamura Tokichi Honten – Matcha soba set, matcha parfait
- Itohkyuemon Uji Main Store – Green tea soba set, matcha tiramisu
- Tsuen Chaya – Tea cuisine from a teahouse founded in the Edo period
After lunch, enjoy a walk with matcha ice cream or sweets in hand.
■ 13:00–14:30 Ujigami Shrine and Uji Shrine
In the afternoon, head across the Uji River to visit Ujigami Shrine,
the oldest existing shrine building in Japan and part of the World Heritage list.
Next door, Uji Shrine—together they’re called “The Twin Shrines.”
Don’t miss the famous Mikaeri Usagi (“Looking-Back Rabbit”) statue, a favorite photo spot.
Then take a leisurely walk along the river paths and the small islets of Tono-shima and Tachibana-shima,
where you can enjoy scenic views of the Uji Bridge and temple rooftops.
【Access】Approx. 15 min walk from Byodo-in
【Duration】1–1.5 hours
【Highlights】Rabbit statue, red bridge, tranquil river scenery
■ 15:00–16:00 Uji River Walk & Café Break
After sightseeing, relax at a riverside café.
Savor a matcha latte or roasted tea dessert while feeling the gentle river breeze.
Recommended Cafés
- Uji Tea Café – Matcha latte, green tea roll cake
- Chabo Kunugi – Popular for terrace seating with river views
【Duration】About 1 hour
【Tip】The soft afternoon light makes this the perfect time to unwind.
■ 16:00–17:00 Souvenir Time
End your trip by browsing for souvenirs along Ujibashi-dori.
You’ll find high-quality matcha, confections, and handcrafted pottery unique to Uji.
- Matcha sweets from Itohkyuemon or Nakamura Tokichi
- Pottery and teaware from Asahiyaki
- Local favorites like matcha financiers or tea-flavored yokan
【Duration】About 1 hour
【Tip】Bring a small cooler bag if buying chilled matcha desserts.
■ 17:15–18:00 Return to Kyoto via Keihan Uji Station
From Keihan Uji Station, take the Keihan Line via Chushojima Station to reach Gion-Shijo or Sanjo in central Kyoto.
If time allows, enjoy a brief stroll by the river—Uji’s sunset glow makes for a beautiful farewell scene.
■ One-Day Itinerary Summary
- 9:00 Depart Kyoto Station (JR Nara Line rapid, 30 min)
- 9:30–11:00 Visit Byodo-in Temple (World Heritage)
- 11:15–12:30 Lunch on Ujibashi-dori (matcha soba & sweets)
- 13:00–14:30 Visit Ujigami & Uji Shrines
- 15:00–16:00 Riverside stroll & café break
- 16:00–17:00 Souvenir shopping (tea, sweets, pottery)
- 17:15–18:00 Return to central Kyoto via Keihan Uji Station
■ Seasonal Highlights
- Spring (Mar–Apr): Cherry blossoms by the river, wisteria at Byodo-in
- Summer (Jul–Sep): Traditional night cormorant fishing (ukai) on the Uji River
- Autumn (Nov): Vibrant foliage & Uji Tea Festival
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet temples and peaceful strolls
■ About the Nintendo Museum
Opened in autumn 2024, the Nintendo Museum stands on the site of the former Uji Ogura factory.
It showcases the company’s journey from hanafuda cards and playing cards to modern consoles.
Entry is by advance reservation through a My Nintendo Account.
Tickets: Adults ¥3,330 / Students ¥2,200 / Children ¥1,100 / Preschoolers free.
If you secure a reservation, consider shortening an afternoon stop to include this visit.
It’s about a 10-minute walk from JR Ogura Station (one stop from JR Uji) or a 5-minute taxi ride from JR Uji Station.
■ Summary
Uji blends deep history with living tea culture, and with the addition of the Nintendo Museum,
it now bridges tradition and modern creativity.
Just a short ride from Kyoto, this compact town offers a perfect balance of heritage, flavor, and calm.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the season—Uji is best enjoyed on foot.