Uji: Kyoto's Green Tea Paradise — A Perfect Day Trip

Why Uji?

While Kyoto's temples draw millions, the small city of Uji (population 180,000), 20 minutes south by JR train, remains surprisingly peaceful. Uji has been Japan's premier green tea region since the 12th century, when the monk Eisai brought tea seeds from China and the region's misty climate and mineral-rich soil proved perfect for cultivation. By the 15th century, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu had declared Uji tea the finest in the land — a reputation that endures today.

But Uji is also a literary landmark. The final ten chapters of The Tale of Genji, the world's first novel (written around 1000 AD by Murasaki Shikibu), are set in Uji. The Uji chapters shift in tone from court romance to the melancholy of aging and loss, lending the town a wistful atmosphere that still lingers.

Morning: Byodoin Temple

Start your day at Byodoin Temple (平等院), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most photographed structures. The Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), built in 1053, appears on the back of every ¥10 coin. Its reflection in the mirror-like pond creates the illusion that the hall is floating — an earthly representation of the Buddhist Pure Land paradise.

Inside the hall sits a 2.77-meter statue of Amida Buddha, carved by the master sculptor Jocho in 1053. The surrounding walls feature 52 bodhisattva relief sculptures, each playing a different musical instrument or dancing — half are displayed in the excellent Hoshokan museum on the temple grounds. Plan 90 minutes. Entry: ¥700.

Midday: Tea Along the River

Uji's main tea street, Byodoin-Omotesando, runs from the temple to the Uji River. The scent of roasted tea leaves fills the air as you pass centuries-old shops. Tsuen (通圓), established in 1160, is the oldest tea shop in Japan — and possibly the world. Stop for a bowl of matcha and a traditional sweet (¥800–1,200).

For a more hands-on experience, the Taihoan (対凤庵) public tea house by the river offers a traditional tea ceremony for ¥1,000. No reservation is needed, and the ceremony is conducted by skilled practitioners who explain each step. It's one of the most accessible ways to experience a genuine tea ceremony in Japan.

Afternoon: Matcha Everything

Uji takes matcha seriously — you'll find it in soba noodles, soft-serve ice cream, gyoza, beer, and even curry. Must-try stops:

• Nakamura Tokichi (中村藤吉): The most famous tea house, established 1854. The matcha parfait (¥1,500) is legendary — expect a queue.
• Itoh Kyuemon (伊藤久右衛門): Known for matcha sweets and excellent gift boxes. Their matcha soba set (¥1,200) is a satisfying lunch.
• Masuda Cha Ho (増田茶舗): A smaller, less touristy shop where you can buy high-grade matcha powder to take home.

A Perfect Uji Itinerary

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