Visiting Uji, Japan;

The Matcha Capitol of the World!

THINGS TO NOTE FOR JAPAN:

There are no trash cans available publicly. You may think I’m exaggerating, but I’m not—honest to goodness, no trash cans. My sister and her boyfriend were relentless about my informing you all. They wanted me to let you guys know. This is your PSA.

Why Visit Uji? 

Uji is a small town, a mere 20 minutes from Kyoto. With just under 180,000 people, this city attracts millions of visitors yearly. It’s lovingly known by many as the birthplace of matcha. Its misty hills are a perfect natural environment for cultivating the signature vibrant green leaves required for high-quality tea.

It may not have invented powdered tea, but it did invent the shading practices needed for crop development, as well as create key innovations in the processing of the tea leaves. Uji ceremonial-grade tea is among the highest quality teas in the world.

Besides being matcha town, Uji is known for its Byodo-In Temple, featured on the 10-yen coin. Its grounds and gardens are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing Japanese art and spiritual beauty.

If you don’t want to visit Uji for its matcha, consider visiting for its picturesque old town, stunning river walkway, and sites connected to the famous book The Tale of Genji. It’s a quiet town that depicts a different, more serene side of Japan, counter to the bustling cities of Osaka, Kyoto, or Tokyo.

Flat out, the best soba noodles I have ever eaten.

How to get to Uji, Japan

If you’re in Kyoto or Osaka, Uji is a convenient day trip to do. It will take about 1 hour to get to Uji from Osaka, and it will take just over 20 minutes to get to Uji from Kyoto. We did Uji while traveling between these two cities on our itinerary.

Osaka→Uji

For Non-Japan Rail Pass Holders

Via Keihan Railway

Time: About 1 hour (40-54 minutes to Chuchojima, then 15 minutes to Uji Station)

Total Cost: Around ¥550 JPY ($3.47 USD)

¥370 Yodoyabashi or Kyobashi stations→ Chushojima Station via Keihan Main Line

¥180 Chushojima station→Uji Station via Keihan Uji Line

From Yodoyabashi or Kyobashi stations in Osaka, take the train to Chushojima Station. Then transfer to the Keihan Uji Line. Once you are on the Krihan Uji Line, you can get off at the Keihan Uji Station.

For Japan Rail Pass Holders

Via JR Railway

NOTE: You do not NEED a Japan Rail Pass to ride these trains; you will just need to purchase individual tickets. The costs below are an estimate of the individual ticket cost.

Time: 1 hour total (30 minutes to Kyoto, then 20-30 minutes to Uji)

Total Cost: Around ¥820 ($5.18 USD)

¥580 Osaka Station→ Kyoto Station via JR Kyoto Line

¥240- Kyoto Station → Uji Station via JR Nara Line

From Osaka, take the JR Kyoto line to Kyoto Station. Then you will need to transfer to the JR Nara Line and stop at Uji Station. They offer local and rapid trains from Kyoto Station to Uji; make sure to check the timetable if you would like to save some time.

We need to take a moment to appreciate the absolute beauty and complexity of the Japanese Rail Transit technology. I really wanted to touch all the buttons.

Also, I was absolutely amazed by the patience of the commuters. Even when I didn’t know how to insert or tap my ticket, the line was growing behind me due to my stupidity, and the woman kindly showed me I was in the wrong line. And I do mean KINDLY. It was amazing. 

Shinkansen Bullet Train: 

The Shinkansen bullet train can get you between Osaka and Kyoto in 12 minutes. We did it. It was insanely fast. However, there is currently no route from Osaka to Uji entirely by bullet train. However, to make use of the bullet train, you will need to get to Shin-Osaka Station while in Osaka. From here, you will go to Kyoto Station and transfer to the JR Nara Line, heading to JR Uji Station. We purchased individual tickets at the station because we did not have a Japan Rail Pass.

Cost: ¥1,450 ($9.14 USD)

Time: 12 minutes

How we traveled from Osaka to Uji: After staying in Osaka for a few days, we decided the simplest thing would be to take the bullet train to Kyoto. Drop our bags at the hotel, then head to Uji from Kyoto. It sounds complicated, but the whole thing took us under 2 hours, and we didn’t have to deal with our luggage while in Uji. There’s a bit of logistical gymnastics with deciding which route to take because there isn’t a direct train. However, it’s possible and manageable, and I believe in you :).

Kyoto→Uji

(Recommended) Kyoto to Uji via the JR Line

Cost: ¥240 ($1.52 USD)

Time: 30 minutes

From Kyoto, getting to Uji is even easier.

The trip will take just over 20 minutes, depending on the route. Unlike Osaka, there is a direct line going from Kyoto Main Station to Uji. The JR Nara line is a safe bet, and the way we went to Kyoto after our day trip to Uji.

Now, on to the matcha!

Things to do in Uji, Japan

I promise there are other things to do in Uji besides eat matcha in all of its forms. I dare say, you can even enjoy it if you don’t like matcha. Somehow, I managed to convince my sister and her boyfriend (both of whom hate matcha) that coming to Uji while staying in Kyoto would be a good idea. 

I won’t lie to you, I had stress. I accidentally booked us a lunch at a famous cafe, Nakamura Tokichi honten, that only served 4 versions of the same matcha soba noodle dish. Cold matcha soba noodles, cold matcha soba noodles with tofu, and the hot versions. Somehow, someway, they loved it. Not tolerated. They genuinely loved the food.

With this momentum, we strolled into town and experienced Uji in all of its glory.

Things to do in Uji, Japan for Matcha Lovers

1. Go to Nakamura Tokichi Honten- The Main branch (For lunch and souvenirs!)

This was top of many travel lists, which can be a good thing ora bad thing. Personally, I decided to give it a go because my friend who previously lived in Uji said we cannot skip this. Nakamura Tokichi Honten is a famous family-run tea merchant in Uji. They have incredible matcha products, from ceremonial-grade matcha tea to matcha biscuits and ice cream, hojicha flavored items, tea chocolate, and more. If you’re looking for matcha souvenirs, I highly recommend this spot. We tried almost everything. I LOVED the matcha biscuits, while my sister and her boyfriend (the non-matcha lovers) preferred the chocolate.

It is not only a shop but also a cafe. This is where we had lunch. They have a very limited menu for lunch options and lots of options for dessert or tea time. Try as much as your stomach will allow. Everything was incredible and loved by the whole group. The hot matcha soba noodles with tofu were the favorite. You can “customize” with the ingredients that are presented to make it more or less tea flavored, so everyone can be happy.

2. Visit Japan’s oldest Tea Shop- Tsuen

It just so happens that Japan’s oldest tea shop is in Uji! A visit to Tsuen is a unique tea cultural experience that will give you a glimpse back in time. You’ll be able to savor treats made from the high-end tea leaves while appreciating the tea lineage that has been run by the same family for 24 generations! The building itself is reason enough to visit. Largely untouched since 1672, there are antique jar relics and ancient architecture that present a unique tea drinking ambiance. The tea house has an incredible location. It’s set right on the eastern edge of Uji Bridge, right along the riverbank, so you can enjoy a slow cup of tea while the day passes by.

3. Participate in a traditional Matcha Grinding at the Chazuna Museum

Nearby Tsuen, your next stop could be Chazuna Museum. For a multisensory affair, set your sights here. I’m not a huge museum person, but this I could get on board with. Of course, you’ll be able to learn through digital displays and immersive exhibits, but the draw is the interactive workshops. Here you’ll be able to partake in a traditional matcha grinding workshop where you’ll grind tea leaves into your own powder, which you’ll be able to taste later on.

Also, if you’re interested in some great photos, there’s also an observation deck overlooking gorgeous tea fields set alongside Uji city. If you want to get outside, enjoy walking around their tea fields to get an idea what it feels like to walk around a traditional tea farm.

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4. Try all things Matcha on Oharai-machi ( The Main Road)

This should be a list in and of itself. I didn’t realize you could make half of these products matcha flavored, but here they are, making moves and taking names. I mentioned earlier, grabbing some goodies at Nakamura Tokichi Honten, and I would highly suggest getting some of their biscuit sandwiches. There are also many coffee shops offering matcha lattes, ice cream parlors with matcha ice cream, and so much more. You can dry dumplings, gyoza, noodles, crackers, sake, and beer, all matcha flavored!

I’m sure I’m missing something, but you get the idea. And even if you’re with a friend who claims not to like matcha, I would highly recommend giving it one last go in the land of the finest matcha in the world.

5. Shop for Matcha Products

Same same but different. Besides eating and drinking, I did a lot of Christmas shopping while I was here in October. There are some charming ceramic shops with hand made one of a kind matcha bowls. Also, everything else you would need to enjoy your matcha at home. The kettle, the whisk, and of course the matcha itself. There are even matcha-themed gifts if you’re tired of consuming things. Near the Murasaki Shikibu statue is a shop with painted fabrics that can be fashioned into bags, hats, and wraps. There are a ton of artisans in this city. It’s worth it to wander the tiny streets and get a bit lost. See what you stumble upon.

6. Visit a Tea Field

Something to consider if you don’t mind stepping just outside of Uji is visiting the neighboring town of Wazuka. This place makes 50% of all of Kyoto’s tea. Wazuka is gorgeous and offers plenty of opportunities to visitors who want to stroll through the tea field themselves, or visit a factory to get up close and personal with how the tea is processed and packaged. While Uji is famous for its tea culture, Wazuka is famous for its production of Uji tea.

Most visits to a tea field around Uji require a guide and tour, but if you would like to stay in Uji town proper, check out Fukujuen Uji Tea Factory. Here, they have a small tea garden to walk around and also offer experiences such as tea grinding and hand rolling. Just make sure you book in advance because they usually don’t have space for walk-ins!

7. Participate in a Traditional Tea Ceremony at Taihoan

The best place to partake in a traditional tea ceremony without feeling like a tourist will be right next to Byodo-In Temple at Taihoan. This place welcomes visitors and is happy to have you partake in the meditative practice of the tea ceremony. What you can expect when you arrive is that you will be brought into a traditional tatami mat room and served a wagashi (a seasonal sweet). Then the tea host will perform the tea ceremony and prepare the tea. Then you can drink the tea yourself.

8. Learn how to brew matcha at Takumi no Yakata

On the other hand, if the quiet meditative tea ceremony isn’t your flavor, you can enjoy more of an exchange and learn how to brew matcha. Head to Takumi no Yakata, where a certified tea instructor will sit with you and help you through the process to extract the best flavor and umami of the tea. This is more casual and educational than a typical tea ceremony.

Things to do in Uji, Japan for NON-Matcha Lovers

1. Byodo-In Temple

You have to check out the temple that’s on the 10 yen coin! Jokes aside, it’s beautiful. This temple dates back to 1052 A.D. It’s known for its Heian Era architecture, which unites the structure in harmony with nature. But what took my breath away were the grounds. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the land is set to reflect the Buddhist Pure Land. A place meant for reflection and spirituality.

Byogo-In Temple is a great place to lose a couple of hours walking around, but it can get a bit crowded with school tours and other tourists visiting. Don’t forget to check out the museum on the grounds, Hoshokan Museum, which is also worth stopping in.

2. Watch Traditional Cormorant Fishing

We were there during the fall (October), so we weren’t able to see the traditional practice of cormorant fishing, but it’s something that definitely draws a crowd. In the summer, fishermen use trained cormorants tied to ropes to catch fish with a snare around their necks to prevent them from swallowing. It’s an ancient practice that dates back over 1,300 years. Now it’s only done as a tourist attraction.

Not sure if I personally would feel comfortable watching this be done for tourists’ sake, but it is a historic event that happens every year from July to September.

3. Stroll along the river at Prefectural Uji Park

An easy activity that doesn’t require much planning. The Uji River hugs the main street of Uji and offers a beautiful pathway for visitors and locals to enjoy. If you have time to make it to Prefectural Uji Park, you’ll be able to enjoy the foliage and lush greenery right next to the river. Gorgeous at all times of the year, but during the spring with the cherry blossoms is the sweet spot. The park is lined with giant trees and red bridges connecting the pathways on either side of the river. Perfect after a long day of shopping and eating.

4. Tale of Genji Museum

Maybe you know, maybe you don’t, but The Tale of Gengi is widely considered the world’s first novel. It has strong cultural significance in Japan as it is considered to be a foundational text in Japan’s literature. The tale is set in the Heian period, and the museum gives the visitor great insight into this time in Japan’s history. With lots of hands-on exhibits, diarams of Heian court life, films describing the period, and more. The novel has a special connection to Uji as it has the “Uji Chapters” depicting life in the city at the time.

5. Murasaki Shikibu Statue

A quick experience, but worth finding near the Uji Bashi bridge. The Murasaki Shikibu Statue commemorates the Heian period noblewoman, poet, and author of the Tales of Genji. It depicts Murasaki holding a scroll to signify her literary genius, while set in the time of the Uji Chapters of her novel.

6. Koshoji Temple

A quiet temple known for its authentic Zen experience. Its pathway leading to the temple is especially renowned for its beauty in the fall when the foliage is changing colors. This temple is a working temple and offers overnight stays to visitors. An experience that can give you a true depiction of monastic life.

7. 7 Famed Springs of Uji at the Ujigami jinja Shrine

Many years ago, Uji had 7 natural springs called the “Seven Famous Springs of Uji,” which have all dried up except one. The one remaining spring lives on at the Ujigami jinja Shrine. The well is located just inside the shrine and is still used for ritual purification purposes.

The central symbol of this shrine, as well as the adjacent Uji Shrine, is the rabbit. The story goes that Price Wakiiratsuko, an ancient imperial prince, was once lost in the mountains and was returned home after following a guiding rabbit. This rabbit became the guardian spirit of Ujigami jinja. Now it is said that if you address a prayer to this guardian rabbit of Uji, the rabbit will lead you down the path of your destiny. Visitors often come here seeking peace, reflection, and direction. 

Tips for Visiting Uji

• Make sure you arrive in the morning or early afternoon. Uji’s main street and temples close down starting around 5:00 PM. After 5:000, things tend to get very quiet in the town, and there isn’t as much to do.

• You can stop by the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Tofukuji Temple on the way back to Kyoto from Uji. If you have more energy than I, you could make it an awesomely packed day trip from Kyoto. We did try to visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine post Uji experience, but we didn’t make it very high up through the gates. I’m not 20 anymore.

• If you’re into hiking, try hiking up Daikichiyama and watch the sunset

• Uji can generally be done in one day