Uji: A Complete Guide to Japan’s Tea Capital

Top Reasons to Visit

Uji is a charming town located south of Kyoto, known for its historical significance and natural beauty. With its abundance of temples, shrines, and tea plantations, Uji offers a unique blend of culture and tranquility that attracts visitors from around the world. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Uji:

• World Heritage Sites: Uji is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Byodoin Temple and the Uji Shrine. These architectural marvels showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and rich history of Japan.

• Tea Culture: Uji is renowned for its high-quality green tea, known as Uji matcha. Visitors can experience the traditional tea ceremony, visit tea plantations, and sample a variety of matcha-infused treats.

• Natural Beauty: Uji is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Uji River and the surrounding hills. The town is particularly stunning during the spring and autumn seasons when the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage are in full bloom.

• Historical Significance: Uji has played an important role in Japanese history. The town was once the capital of Japan during the Heian period, and it is home to a number of historical sites, including the Byodoin Temple and the Uji Shrine.

• Cultural Experiences: Uji offers a variety of cultural experiences for visitors, including traditional tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and kimono rentals. Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of Uji at the Uji City Museum.

Attractions

Byodoin Temple

Specialties:
– Phoenix Hall
– Amida Hall
– Jodo Garden

Description:
Byodoin Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic temples in Japan. The temple is known for its Phoenix Hall, which is a masterpiece of Heian architecture and is depicted on the 10-yen coin. The temple complex also includes the Amida Hall and the Jodo Garden, which are both designated as National Treasures.

Uji Shrine

Specialties:
– Main Shrine
– Three Rabbits
– Sawanobori Festival

Description:
Uji Shrine is dedicated to the god of scholarship and is believed to bring good luck to students. The shrine is known for its Three Rabbits, which are said to have guided a god to Uji. The shrine also hosts the Sawanobori Festival every July, which is a lively festival with traditional music and dance performances.

Mimurotoji Temple

Specialties:
– Hydrangea Garden
– Main Hall
-三重塔 (Three-Storied Pagoda)

Description:
Mimurotoji Temple is known for its stunning display of hydrangeas during the rainy season. The temple grounds are home to over 10,000 hydrangeas in various colors, creating a breathtaking floral spectacle. The temple also features a number of important cultural artifacts, including a 13th-century stone pagoda.

Uji Tea Plantations

Specialties:
– Matcha tea
– Tea fields
– Tea factories

Description:
Uji is renowned for its high-quality green tea, known as Uji matcha. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea plantations, learn about the tea-making process, and sample freshly brewed matcha tea. The tea plantations are located in the surrounding hills of Uji, and offer stunning views of the countryside.

Uji River

Specialties:
– Uji Bridge
-鵜飼 (Cormorant Fishing)
– River cruises

Description:
The Uji River is a scenic river that flows through the town of Uji. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely boat ride down the river, admiring the beautiful scenery along the banks. The river is also known for its鵜飼 (Cormorant Fishing), a traditional fishing method that uses trained cormorants to catch fish.

Uji City Museum

Specialties:
– History of Uji
– Uji tea culture
– Local crafts

Description:
The Uji City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Uji. The museum has a variety of exhibits on topics such as the history of Uji, Uji tea culture, and local crafts. The museum also hosts a number of events and workshops throughout the year.

Delicacies

Matcha Ice Cream

Description:
Matcha ice cream is a popular treat in Uji, made with high-quality Uji matcha. The ice cream is smooth and creamy, with a rich and flavorful matcha taste. Visitors can find matcha ice cream at a variety of shops and restaurants in Uji.

Matcha Mochi

Description:
Matcha mochi is a chewy rice cake filled with sweet matcha paste. The mochi is soft and glutinous, with a delicate matcha flavor. Visitors can find matcha mochi at a variety of shops and restaurants in Uji.

Matcha Tea

Description:
Uji matcha is renowned for its vibrant green color and rich, umami flavor. Visitors can purchase matcha tea in various grades, from ceremonial grade to culinary grade. Matcha tea can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including as a hot or cold beverage, or as an ingredient in desserts and other dishes.

Hojicha

Description:
Hojicha is a roasted green tea that has a unique, nutty flavor. Hojicha is less bitter than matcha, and it is often enjoyed as a casual everyday tea. Visitors can find hojicha at a variety of shops and restaurants in Uji.

Yuzu Sherbet

Description:
Yuzu sherbet is a refreshing treat made with yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit. Yuzu sherbet has a tart and tangy flavor, with a hint of sweetness. Visitors can find yuzu sherbet at a variety of shops and restaurants in Uji.

Souvenir Guide

Uji Tea

Description:
Uji matcha is a popular souvenir for visitors to Uji. The tea is available in a variety of grades and packaging, making it a suitable gift for both tea enthusiasts and casual consumers. Visitors can purchase Uji matcha at a variety of shops and tea plantations in Uji.

Matcha Kit Kats

Description:
Matcha Kit Kats are a unique and delicious souvenir from Uji. The Kit Kats are made with real Uji matcha, giving them a rich and flavorful green tea taste. Matcha Kit Kats are available at a variety of shops and convenience stores in Uji.

Uji Teacups

Description:
Uji teacups are a beautiful and practical souvenir from Uji. The teacups are made of high-quality ceramic and are often decorated with traditional Japanese designs. Visitors can find Uji teacups at a variety of shops and department stores in Uji.

Uji Fans

Description:
Uji fans are a traditional Japanese souvenir that is often made with Uji paper. Uji paper is a high-quality paper that is known for its strength and durability. Uji fans are available in a variety of designs and sizes, making them a suitable gift for both men and women.

Uji Incense

Description:
Uji incense is a fragrant incense that is made with natural ingredients. Uji incense is known for its delicate and refreshing scent. Visitors can find Uji incense at a variety of shops and temples in Uji.

Detailed Itinerary