Uji Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Uji, Kyoto with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, local cuisine, culture, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Uji Travel Guide – Discover the Cultural and Natural Wonders of Kyoto

Welcome to Uji, a serene city located in Kyoto prefecture in the Kansai region of Japan. Nestled between the Uji and Kizu rivers, Uji is a picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, history and nature. From centuries-old shrines and temples to breathtaking landscapes, Uji is a paradise for explorers, sightseers, and nature enthusiasts. Discover the best of Uji with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, local cuisine, culture, transportation options, and nearby destinations.

Introduction to Uji

Uji is a city situated south of Kyoto, and is famously known for its UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ujigami Shrine, and the Byodoin Temple, both of which are considered to be the icons of Japanese architecture. The city is home to a plethora of natural wonders too, which complement the cultural attractions making it a top destination for visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Uji

There are a variety of attractions to explore in Uji, from scenic landscapes, to temples and shrines, museums, and much more. Here are some of the must-visit spots in Uji:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical places

If you’re a fan of historical sites and ancient architecture, then Uji will not disappoint. Here are some of the culturally important attractions to add to your itinerary:

  • Byodoin Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the brilliance of Japanese temple design and houses some iconic works of Buddhist pagoda architecture.
  • Ujigami Shrine: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ujigami Shrine is one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in Japan and holds great cultural and historical significance.
  • Amagase Dam: Built to provide water to a flourishing tea industry in Uji, the dam is now a popular spot for its serene surroundings and breathtaking views.
  • Koshoji Temple: The temple is a peaceful space to meditate and reflect, and is notable for its vibrant Chrysanthemum festival held every November.
  • Uji City Cultural Arts Center: Home to several permanent displays showcasing local culture and art, the center stages events and performances throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Uji: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Uji’s natural beauty promises a day well spent outdoors. From scenic views of mountains and rivers to strolling in the parks, here are some of the excellent outdoor options in Uji:

  • Uji River: One of the main rivers in Japan, the Uji River is a serene spot for a picnic, a walk, or a bike ride.
  • Mount Daikichi: The mountain is home to several hiking trails, waterfalls, and meadows that make for a perfect day spent amidst nature.
  • Japan’s Tea Fields: Surrounded by lush green hills and meandering rivers, the tea fields provide some of the most picturesque and serene sceneries you’ll see anywhere in Japan.
  • Rengejiike Park: The park is a landscaped garden that features several ponds, waterfalls, and scenic streams which are especially stunning during autumn.
  • Manpuku-ji Temple: The temple is known for its stunning gardens and well-manicured landscapes that look stunning in all seasons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uji

Uji’s location at the foot of the mountain range makes it an excellent spot for hiking and cycling. Discover some of the best trails of Uji:

  • The Ujitawara Green Road: The trail is an excellent cycling route that passes through several scenic spots and is dotted with pleasant cafes along the way.
  • Mount Daikichi: The hiking trail to the summit of Mount Daikichi presents you with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including waterfalls and pristine meadows.
  • Fushimi-Inari Taisha: The trail is an iconic hike in Kyoto and begins from the perfect Uji Station, leading hikers through over 10000 Torii gates.
  • Isosaka Shrine: The shrine makes for an ideal short hike that leads to stunning views of Mount Daikichi and the Uji river below.
  • Mimuroto-ji Temple: The temple grounds house several pathways leading through the gardens where you’ll come across a diverse range of flowers.

Best Things to Do in Uji: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re an adventurous traveler, art lover, or history buff, Uji has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Uji:

  • Take a historical guided tour: A guided tour of Uji is an excellent way to explore the city and learn about its rich history and culture.
  • Join a tea ceremony: Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at one of the several tea houses in Uji, and learn about the tea making process that dates back centuries.
  • Visit the Nakanoshima Rose Garden: The Rose Garden is home to over 20,000 roses and is a peaceful spot to spend an afternoon.
  • Take a walk along the Uji River: The river is an excellent spot to take a leisurely riverside walk, a bike ride or have a picnic with a scenic view.
  • Learn about the tea industry: Uji has been known for its tea since ancient times, and the city’s Tea Industry Historical Museum provides insights into how the tea industry thrived and grew over the years.

Week-Long Itinerary for Uji

Here’s what your week-long itinerary might look like in Uji:

Day 1 Visit the Byodoin Temple and explore the Ujigami Shrine, followed by a leisurely walk along the Uji river to end the day.
Day 2 Spend a morning at the Uji city cultural arts center, and then visit the Mimuroto-ji Temple in the afternoon.
Day 3 Take a guided historical tour of the city of Uji, learning about the history and culture of the area, or take a tea ceremony class in one of the many tea houses in Uji.
Day 4 Explore the natural wonders of Uji, hiking up Mt. Daikichi or biking along the Ujitawara Green Road.
Day 5 Learn about the tea culture at the Tea Industry Historical Museum, and enjoy a cup of authentic green tea while you’re there.
Day 6 Take a day trip to nearby Kyoto, visiting famous sites such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple), Arashiyama bamboo grove, and Fushimi Inari Taisha (Thousand Torii Gates Shrine).
Day 7 Spend a day at the Nakanoshima Rose Garden, watching the roses as you lounge around the park.

Food and Drink Scene of Uji

Uji’s food and drink scene is a mix of traditional Japanese cuisine and modern fusion cuisine. Here are some local dishes you should try and drinks to sip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Uji Green Tea: Enjoy a cup of Uji green tea in one of the local tea houses or bring some home as a souvenir.
  • Unagi: Uji is famous for its eel dishes, and unagi is a must-try dish when you’re in Uji.
  • Kuzu Mochi: made with kuzu, a type of root vegetable found abundantly in Uji, Kuzu mochi is a jelly-like sweet often served with green tea.
  • Yaki Soba: Soba noodles stir-fried with veggies and meats, Yaki soba is a local version of Japanese stir-fry.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Pair your meal with a glass of local sake from the nearby Fushimi District, Kyoto’s second-largest sake producing region.
  • Matcha: Made from powdered green tea grown in Uji, matcha is a favorite ingredient in many desserts too.

Where to Stay in Uji: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From traditional Japanese inns to modern hotels, Uji offers a diverse range of accommodation options for its visitors. Here are some of the best hotels to stay in Uji:

  • The Uji Hotel: Located near the Uji River, this hotel offers traditional tatami-mat rooms and private hot spring baths.
  • Kyoto Uji Hanayashiki Ukifune-en: A modern hotel located near the Byodoin Temple and several other attractions. This hotel features rooms with stunning views of the Uji River and Byodoin Temple.
  • Yumoto Honkan: A hot spring resort that offers rooms with private traditional Japanese baths, overlooking the Uji River.

What to Buy in Uji: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Uji is famous for its green tea and tea-related products. Here are some of the souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Uji Green Tea: Take some local green tea back home with you, with several varieties to choose from.
  • Macha: a green tea powder that is a perfect ingredient for cupcakes and lattes.
  • Pottery and ceramics: Shop for some beautifully crafted teapots and tea sets that showcase the traditional art of the region.
  • Kuzu Mochi: Take this traditional sweet, made from kudzu root starch back home with you as a delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Uji

Uji has its local customs and traditions, including:

  • Tea Ceremony: The tea ceremony, a traditional art form in Uji, is renowned for its simplicity, peacefulness, and sophistication.
  • Festivals: Uji is known for many festivals, including the Ujigami Shrine festival, the Uji City Festival, and the Hanatoro festival, each celebrating different aspects of Japanese culture and architecture.
  • Tea Cultivation: Uji has an unwavering connection to tea cultivation since ancient times, and the traditional tea cultivation techniques are still used in the tea gardens of Uji.

Best Time to Visit Uji

Uji’s weather is pleasant throughout the year, but advisable months to visit would be,

  • Spring: March to May (To view the cherry blossoms).
  • Summer: June to August (To escape the heat and humidity of nearby cities)
  • Autumn: September to November (To witness the vibrant autumn foliage)
  • Winter: December to February (To experience the winter season in the serene surroundings of Uji)

Do’s and Don’ts of Uji

Do:

  • Do try the local tea: Uji is known for its tea production, so make sure to enjoy a hot cup of tea while you’re visiting.
  • Do bring comfortable walking shoes: Uji has many hiking trails, historical sites, and temples to explore, so make sure to bring walking-friendly shoes.
  • Do try Eel: Eel is a specialty dish of Uji, and is a must-try when you’re there.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Keep the wildlife in Uji pleasant by not littering and disposing of your trash properly.
  • Don’t be loud: Uji is a serene city, so keep your volume low, particularly around temples and shrines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uji

Uji is generally a safe place for travelers to visit. However, make sure to take note of these precautions:

  • Keep an eye on your belongings: Although Uji is known to be safe, it is still best to take precautions against theft.
  • Be aware of traffic: Traffic laws differ in Japan, and with roads being narrow, traffic can be quite intense.

Health in Uji

Uji has an excellent health care system, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Make sure to carry personal medication with you and to wear masks when necessary.

Getting to Uji: Transportation Options and Logistics

Uji is located approximately 20km south of Kyoto city, and getting there is quite easy with several public transport options.

Airports near Uji

  • Osaka International Airport: Located approximately 55km from Uji, Osaka International Airport is the nearest airport to Uji and has bus and train services to Uji.
  • Kansai International Airport: Located approximately 100km from Uji, Kansai International Airport has bus and train services to Uji.

Bus stations near Uji

  • Keihan Uji Station: A train station that has connecting bus services to several destinations within Uji.

Other Options

  • Train: Uji is accessible through the Keihan Uji Station, serviced by the Keihan Main Line and the Uji line.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available and can be found on the main streets of Uji.

How to Get Around in Uji

Uji is a fairly small city, and getting around on foot is the best option. Buses and taxis are available in case you need them.

Where to Go Next from Uji: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Uji forms an excellent base to explore nearby areas of Kyoto, including:

  • Fushimi District: Located just north of Uji and home to several sake breweries, Fushimi District is known as one of Japan’s top saké producing regions.
  • Kyoto: Discover the marvelous gardens, eateries, temples and shrines, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.
  • Nara: Located to the south of Uji, Nara houses several ancient temples and shrines and is one of Japan’s oldest cities.

Conclusion

Uji is a perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in the tranquility of nature and history. From its ancient temples and shrines to its beautiful green tea gardens and scenic mountains, Uji invites visitors to explore and discover its unique and exotic blend of culture, history, and beauty. Plan your trip to Uji today with our comprehensive guide, and experience everything this beautiful city has to offer.

Byōdō-in's Phoenix Hall Byōdō-in's Phoenix Hall Ujigami Shrine Ujigami Shrine Take some care while you're by the river Take some care while you're by the river