Uji – How to Plan Your Ultimate Daytrip to the Matcha Capital
When it comes to day trip destinations from Kyoto (京都), Uji (宇治) is undeniably one of the best destinations to consider. Just 30 minutes away by train and a city that is known for its unique green tea matcha (抹茶) products. And yet, it is surprising how many tourists who visit Kyoto and Nara have not heard of it.
With that said, let’s explore Uji and how to plan a day trip from Kyoto.
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Table of Contents
The History of Uji
The city of Uji is located strategically between the two ancient capitals of Kyoto (京都) and Nara (奈良). Because of this, it became a favourite retreat destination of the Imperial Court during the artistic Heian Period (平安時代) from AD 794 to 1185.
Religious and artistic buildings such as the famed Byodoin Temple (平等院) and the Ujigami Shrine (氏神神社) were established here; solidifying its status further as a cultural center. One of the princes in fact, constructed his own imperial villa here; which unfortunately was destroyed after he was forced to commit suicide.
What enhanced its cultural significance status however, is the birth of green tea cultivation in this area. Uji has the ideal topography, soil quality and climate for tea cultivation and production.
Furthermore, the discovery of the tea cultivation method; Ōishita Saibai (覆下栽培) which controls the sunlight to enhance the tea flavour and also the creation of Sencha (煎茶) or infused tea allowed matcha to be more accessible to the common people and skyrocketed its popularity.
Today, Uji became not just a historical and cultural capital alongside Kyoto & Nara; but also the birthplace of the popular matcha (抹茶).
Travel Tips and Why Visit Uji?
Uji is easily explored by foot as most of its main attractions are located near to each other. And the fact that it is only 30 minutes away by train makes it an even more ideal day trip destination from Kyoto.
Let’s not forget to mention that Uji also has a scenic riverside as well. This is great especially if you like taking a stroll along a river. And given that this is the birthplace of matcha, there are plenty of unique matcha-themed meals, souvenirs and desserts to look forward too! Here are some activities to look out for your daytrip in Uji.
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Begin Your Journey With a Visit to Byodoin
If there is an architecture that represents Uji, it is none other than the magnificent Byodoin Temple (平等院). The temple was originally built as a villa in AD 998 but was subsequently bought over by the influential Fujiwara clan (藤原氏) and converted into a Buddhist temple.
Because of its iconic architecture, it has not only achieved a UNESCO world heritage site status, but also became the figure at the back of the 10 Yen (円) coin. A visit to Uji would not be complete without visiting this temple.
Entry fees is 700 Yen to visit both the garden and the museum; which I highly recommend as it displays the actual artefacts of the temple itself! To enter the Phoenix Hall itself, one has to pay an additional fee of 300 Yen at a separate reception (you will see the counter as soon as you enter the temple complex).
Then you will be given a number that indicates your time slot. If you are intending to go inside the Phoenix Hall, make sure to purchase the ticket as soon as you enter the complex as the wait becomes longer during the afternoon.
The temple’s main hall which is the Phoenix Hall/Hōō-dō (鳳凰堂) remains the only surviving hall from its inception and features a remarkably intricate and elegant architecture that resembles a phoenix outstretching its wings. The whole concept of the hall being surrounded by a crystal clear pond is said to have been inspired by the concept of the ‘Buddhist Pure Land’.
Pay a Visit to The Ujigami & Uji Shrine
Ujigami Shrine (宇治上神社) is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and was founded during the late Heian period (平安時代). It was built to dedicate to Emperor Ojin (応神天皇) and his sons; including one of them who committed suicide due to a succession crisis.
The main hall is designed in the Nagare-zukuri (流造) style which is easily recognisable by its long roof. The shrine itself is not only registered as a UNESCO heritage site, but also its hall is also designated as a National Treasure.
Don’t miss out on the nearby Uji Shrine (宇治神社) which is known for its unique rabbit motive. Legend has it that a rabbit guided one of Emperor Ojin’s sons when he lost his way and the rabbit repeatedly looked back to ensure he could follow. Because of this, the whole shrine is decorated with a strong rabbit motive such as the rabbit lucky charms and the Ema (絵馬) wishing boards!
Stop by the Tale of Genji Museum
The Tale of Genji or Genji Monogatari (源氏物語) is one of the oldest novels in the world. It is also the first to have been written by a woman; in this case Murasaki Shikibu (紫式部) who was a lady-in-waiting at the Imperial Court during the Heian period. Uji features the only museum that specialises in the Tale of Genji; as Uji has a strong relation with the novel given the last 10 chapters of the novel are primarily set in Uji.
The museum features various models and videos to depict not just the events of the novel but also the lives of the aristocrat during this artistic age. Among the items in display, the lavish ox cart and the colourful costumes are certainly the highlights to look out for.
My personal favourite is the display of the fragrance used by the court ladies during this period, where you can smell the samples themselves. It is eye-opening to know that ladies back then use a variety of spices including star anise, benzoin, spikenard, agarwood and many more. Definitely worth checking out especially if you are into history and novels. (Take note the museum closes every Monday!)
Explore the Blood-Stained Koshoji Temple
Koshoji Temple (興聖寺) in Uji was once built as a training hall for monks during the Kamakura Period (鎌倉時代) from AD 1192 – 1333. What makes Koshoji’s architecture unique from other temples in Japan is the fact that it was built using many materials from Fushimi Castle (伏見城); which the original had burnt down in a siege and the present structure is a reconstruction.
In particular, look out for the ‘nightingale floors’ that squeak when someone walks across them and the blood-stained ceilings that are made from the floorboards of Fushimi Castle. The blood-stains are believed to be from the soldiers who committed Seppuku (切腹) or ritualistic suicide by disembowelment when the castle fell to the besiegers.
Koshoji also has another scenic point; the lane heading towards the main entrance that is filled with maple trees on both sides. During late-Nov, this spot is one of the most scenic fall foliage spots to look out for, especially with the vibrant autumn leaves on both sides forming a fall foliage path towards the temple’s entrance.
Take a Stroll Along the Uji River
Uji also features some wonderfully beautiful river scenery; owning its thanks to the Uji River (宇治川). Part of the charm in exploring Uji is to cross the bridge to the other side of the river while listening to the sound of the river flowing.
The main bridge of Uji was built in AD 646 and has been destroyed several times throughout history before being rebuilt to its present form today. And near the bridge lies a stone statue of Murasaki Shikibu (紫式部), the author of Genji Monogatari (源氏物語).
From July to September, one mustn’t miss out on the summer-exclusive river cruise and the 1,000 years old cormorant fishing experience. The cormorant fishing in particular occurs at night and it involves the fishermen utilising the cormorants to catch the fishes and later on the fishermen will collect them from the cormorants’ mouth.
Tickets cost about 2,700 Yen per pax with the departure point located next to the Kisen Bridge (喜撰橋) and more info can be found here.
Bonus Destination (Omake): The Keihan Uji Station
If you have time, be sure to check out the nearby Keihan Uji Station (京阪宇治駅). The Keihan Uji Station was designed by local architect Wakabayashi Hiroyuki (若林広幸) in 1995. Wakabayashi is known for his brutalist design; which is originally a French word meaning raw concrete.
And it clearly shows in the interior of the station as the structure is made entirely of concrete. Exploring the inside of the structure is a unique experience as the combination of the circular designs with the dark grey concrete creates an impression that you are going into an entirely new dimension.
Here’s a map of all the destinations we have covered so far for a day’s trip:
Enjoy Matcha-Themed Meals & Desserts in Uji
Being the capital of matcha, Uji features plenty of restaurants and cafes serving unique matcha-themed desserts (aside from the usual matcha soft creams). My favourite is Ramen Tanaka Kyu Shoten, which not only sells matcha broth ramen and matcha gyoza (餃子) but also matcha beer!
It amazes me how the light matcha flavour compliments the broth of the ramen wonderfully; and it goes well with the matcha beer too. They even serve takoyaki (たこ焼き) with matcha toppings as well.
Matcha soba (そば) noodles are quite a thing here too and restaurants such as Nagano, Renge Chaya & Shubaku do offer them as part of their menu.
For those looking for a vegetarian meal; fret not as Uji features a variety of vegetarian restaurants as well. For a comprehensive list of them, check out this listing from Vegetarian’s Japan Guide article HERE!
And then, we come to my favourite part of the meal; the desserts! Uji features plenty of cafes and teashops that serve great matcha desserts. Tsuen Tea in particular deserves special mention as this shop has been around since AD 1160, making it the oldest teashop in Japan. Look out for their matcha kakigori (かき氷) or shaved ice especially!
Nakamura Tokichi is another great option to visit; with their matcha parfait being a popular pick for having a large portion of matcha ingredients and sweets inside it. Tsujiri is known for its snack plate with an assortment of matcha snacks and an outdoor garden sitting area too.
Before heading back to Kyoto, be sure to stop by one of the shops to get yourself some souvenirs for your loved ones. The Japanese are very creative when it comes to souvenirs, and the matcha products here are no exception. They range from confectioneries, cakes, drinks to even alcoholic beverages such as umeshu (梅酒). There is even a matcha carbonara being sold!
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How About Staying Overnight at Uji?
Another option to explore Uji is to stay a night at this quaint city; especially if you are planning a longer trip. Uji also has other attractions that are slightly further from the center and requires a bit of travelling; which is easier when you have another day to spare.
Nintendo Museum
Uji’s latest attraction happens to be the Nintendo Museum (ニンテンドーミュージアム), adding to Japan’s collection of video game museums. The new Nintendo Museum was recently opened in October 2024 and it features a wide variety of images of fan favourite Nintendo characters such as Mario, Link, Samus Aran and many more.
The main star of attraction here are the game sections; featuring various game rooms including the manual games, a console games section and the giant controller games sections. Here you can play plenty of the classic Nintendo games such as Mario Kart, Zelda, Donkey Kong and many more. If you are into video games or a big Nintendo fan, this place is definitely worth checking out.
It is important to note however, that tickets are required to be booked in advance 3 months before the actual visit itself (e.g. if you are visiting on September, be sure to start applying on June). Furthermore, the tickets are also given out using a lottery system, which means luck factor is also involved. Check out Nintendo Museum’s official website here for more info on purchasing a ticket.
From Uji city: Board the train on the JR Nara line (奈良線) from JR Uji Station (宇治駅) for about 2 minutes and disembark at the JR Ogura Station (JR小倉駅). Then, walk for about 8 minutes to the Nintendo Museum.
Mimurotoji Temple
At the northern side of Uji lies the temple of Mimurotoji (三室戸寺) which was founded 1,200 years ago. Mimurotoji hold the reputation as the ‘flower temple’ due to its spacious garden that offers a variety of seasonal flowers throughout the year.
These include the cherry blossoms that bloom around late March, azaleas during April to May, hydrangeas during June and lotuses from June to August. The temple’s grounds also happen to be a known fall foliage spot among locals during late November.
There is also the temple’s three tiered vermilion pagoda which compliments to the beauty of the scenery, especially during autumn. For those who are into flowers, this is one temple you shouldn’t miss out.
From Uji city: Catch the Myojo Rainbow bus no 40A of the Oriidai Myojocho Line (折居台明星町線) JR Uji Station (宇治駅) for about 10 minutes and disembark at the Monnomae bus stand (門の前). Then, walk for 10 minutes towards the temple.
Manpukuji Temple
Manpukuji (萬福寺) is head temple of the Ōbaku school of Zen Buddhism; and it stands out from other temples in Japan design-wise as its architecture resembles more of the Ming Chinese style. In fact, the Ōbaku school of Zen Buddhism was the last of the Zen sects to enter Japan from China (the first Zen temple established in Japan was Shofukuji in Fukuoka).
Some of the notable Chinese elements include the layout of the complex that is said to resemble a dragon and also the presence of a Laughing Buddha statue or Miroku Bodhisattva (弥勒菩薩).
One unique wooden instrument to look out is the Kaipan (開梛), a hanging board resembling a fish which is struck to alert monks to mealtimes, lectures and daily tasks. The reason for the fish motif is because fishes do not close their eyes (and appear not to sleep), and that alertness is necessary for a monastic life in the temple.
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Culinary fans shouldn’t miss out on the restaurant Icho-an known for its Fucha Ryori (普茶料理), traditional Chinese-influenced vegetarian meals that emphasizes on the use of vegetable oils for richer flavours. Manpukuji happens to be the birth place of Fucha Ryori and meals are served with warm tea brewed straight from the teapot.
From Uji city: Board the train on the JR Nara line (奈良線) from JR Uji Station (宇治駅) for about 3 minutes and disembark at the Ōbaku Station (黄檗駅). Then, walk for about 6 minutes to the temple.
Where to Stay in Uji
Uji offers several accommodation options for those who are keen in staying a night at the matcha capital.
- For those looking for economical options, Uji Tea Inn, Travellersdou Kirinya & Chaganjutei are great accommodations to consider. Hotel Trend JR Uji Ekimae is another option if you prefer a bit more comfort.
- Wanting a little more luxury for your stay? Uji Ichibanyado Nigauri and Hanayashiki Ukifune-en are the go-to options in Uji.
Getting to Uji
The closest major cities to Uji are both Kyoto (京都) and Nara (奈良), as Uji is in between both cities and they are well-connected with each other by train.
By Train
- From Kyoto (京都): Simply board the train on the JR Nara line (奈良線) from Kyoto Station (京都駅) for about 30 minutes and disembark at the JR Uji Station (宇治駅).
- From Nara (奈良): Simply board the train on the JR Nara line (奈良線) from JR Nara Station (奈良駅) for about 40 minutes and disembark at the JR Uji Station (宇治駅).
- The Kansai Wide Area Pass covers the train ride on the JR Nara line. However I would recommend getting it ONLY IF you are also planning a side trip to less centrally located destination such as Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉), Okayama (岡山), Takamatsu (高松) or the Kumano Region.
By Car
Another option for those who prefer to drive and enjoy the scenery along the way is renting a car. This is the method my wife and I used to explore the countryside of Japan.
RENTING a car offers us the flexibility to travel to places that are more difficult to reach with just public transportation. And what’s even better is that my wife and I can plan our time accordingly without having to worry about any timetable!
Having a car does make it easier to commute to places such as the Nintendo Museum, Mimurotoji Temple and the Manpukuji Temple. Do note that the Nintendo Museum itself does not have a parking space, but there are other nearby parking lots available for parking.
Keen in renting a car for your next Japan road trip? Check out Tocoo for more info here.
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Also check out some of these essential travel tips for Kyoto……
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