Uji

Om

Nestled between the historic hubs of Kyoto and Nara, Uji is a captivating small city with a rich cultural heritage. During the Fujiwara clan's reign in the Heian Period, Byodoin Temple and Ujigami Shrine, Japan's oldest surviving shrine, were erected, enhancing Uji's cultural prominence. Notable attractions include the Uji Tea Festival held at Koshoji Temple in October, Tsuen, Japan's oldest tea shop since 1160, and the ancient Ujigami Shrine with its curved roof. The crown jewel, Byodoin Temple, founded in 1052, enshrines a gilded Amida Buddha, its Phoenix Hall adorned with twin phoenixes symbolizing protection. The temple's museum hosts guided tours revealing replicas of its original vibrant wall paintings. Strolling along the Uji River or cruising its waters unveils the town's romantic essence, with Uji Bridge acclaimed for its role in "The Tale of Genji." This picturesque town, featured in the 11th-century masterpiece "The Tale of Genji," charms visitors with tea fields, riverside allure, and sacred sites, making it a sought-after day-trip destination from Kyoto.