Uji Itinerary 10 Days: The Ultimate Matcha Lover's Journey (2026)

Your journey into the heart of matcha country begins with your arrival in Uji. After settling into your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll to the iconic Uji Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Japan. Feel the weight of history as you cross the bridge, which has been a silent witness to centuries of events, including epic battles and the daily lives of the local people. The bridge offers picturesque views of the Uji River and the surrounding landscape, providing a perfect introduction to the city's serene beauty. From the bridge, make your way to Byodoin Omotesando, the charming street that leads to the Byodoin Temple. This bustling street is a sensory delight, lined with traditional tea houses, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you browse the local crafts and sample some of the region's famous matcha-flavored treats. This is the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs and get your first taste of Uji's renowned green tea. For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at Nakamura Tokichi, a famous tea house that has been serving exquisite matcha dishes for generations.

Today is dedicated to exploring two of Uji's most significant cultural landmarks. Start your day at the breathtaking Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture. The temple's Phoenix Hall, which is depicted on the 10-yen coin, is a stunning example of Heian period design. Take your time to admire the intricate details of the hall and the serene beauty of the surrounding Jodo-shiki garden. Don't miss the Hoshokan Museum, which houses a collection of the temple's national treasures, including the original temple bell and a pair of phoenix statues. In the afternoon, delve into the world of classical Japanese literature at The Tale of Genji Museum. This unique museum brings to life the final chapters of the world's first novel, which are set in Uji. Through a series of immersive exhibits, including life-sized dioramas and interactive displays, you will be transported back to the Heian period and the world of Prince Genji. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the courtly life, culture, and customs of ancient Japan. It's a must-visit for literature lovers and anyone interested in Japanese history.

Experience the tranquility of Zen Buddhism and the art of the Japanese tea ceremony on your third day in Uji. Begin your day with a visit to Kosho-ji Temple, a beautiful Zen temple known for its stunning Kotozaka approach, a sloping path lined with maple trees that is particularly breathtaking in autumn. The temple grounds are a peaceful oasis, with a beautiful garden and a main hall that exudes a sense of calm and serenity. Take some time to meditate and reflect in this tranquil setting. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the world of matcha at the Taiho-an Tea House. This traditional tea house offers an authentic tea ceremony experience, where you can learn about the history and etiquette of this ancient ritual. A tea master will guide you through the process of preparing and drinking matcha, providing a fascinating insight into this important aspect of Japanese culture. The tea house is located in a beautiful garden overlooking the Uji River, providing a serene and picturesque setting for this unique experience.

Today, you will explore the spiritual heart of Uji by visiting two of its oldest and most important shrines. Start your day at Ujigami Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is believed to be the oldest existing shrine in Japan. The shrine's main hall, which is a designated national treasure, is a remarkable example of early Shinto architecture. The shrine is nestled in a peaceful forest, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere. Take a moment to appreciate the ancient craftsmanship and the deep sense of history that permeates this sacred site. From Ujigami Shrine, take a short walk to Uji Shrine, another important Shinto shrine that is closely associated with the history of Uji. The shrine is dedicated to the spirit of a Heian period prince and is a popular spot for locals to pray for good fortune and success. The shrine's beautiful architecture and tranquil setting make it a perfect place for a peaceful stroll. As you explore the shrine grounds, you will gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual beliefs and traditions that have shaped the culture of Uji.

Spend a relaxing day by the Uji River, enjoying the natural beauty of the area and witnessing a unique local tradition. Start your day with a leisurely walk or bike ride along the riverbank. The path offers stunning views of the river, the surrounding hills, and the city's iconic bridges. You can also take a boat cruise on the river for a different perspective of the city. In the afternoon, head to the Amagase Dam, a massive concrete dam that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The dam is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, and it provides a refreshing escape from the city. In the evening, prepare for a truly unforgettable experience: cormorant fishing on the Uji River. This ancient fishing method, known as ukai, has been practiced in Uji for over 1,300 years. Watch as the skilled fishermen, dressed in traditional attire, use trained cormorants to catch fish. The flickering torchlight and the graceful movements of the birds create a magical and mesmerizing spectacle. This is a unique cultural experience that you won't want to miss.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Nara, Japan's first permanent capital. Nara is a city of immense historical and cultural importance, and it is home to some of the country's most impressive temples and shrines. Start your day at Nara Park, a large park in the center of the city where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam freely. The deer are considered to be messengers of the gods and are a beloved symbol of the city. You can purchase special crackers to feed the deer, but be prepared for them to be quite forward in their quest for a snack! From Nara Park, make your way to Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of the Buddha that is one of the largest in the world. The temple's main hall, the Daibutsuden, is the world's largest wooden building and is an awe-inspiring sight. In the afternoon, visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine, another UNESCO World Heritage site that is famous for its thousands of bronze and stone lanterns. The shrine is located in a beautiful forest, and the path to the main hall is lined with lanterns, creating a magical and mystical atmosphere.

Today, you will delve deeper into the world of Uji's most famous product: green tea. Start your day with a visit to a local tea farm, where you can learn about the cultivation and harvesting of tea leaves. Many farms offer guided tours, where you can see the tea plants up close and learn about the different varieties of tea that are grown in the region. Some farms even allow you to try your hand at picking tea leaves during the harvest season. This is a fascinating opportunity to learn about the hard work and dedication that goes into producing Uji's world-class tea. In the afternoon, participate in a tea-making workshop, where you can learn how to process and brew your own green tea. Under the guidance of a tea master, you will learn the traditional methods of steaming, rolling, and drying tea leaves. You will also learn how to brew the perfect cup of sencha or gyokuro, two of Uji's most popular teas. This hands-on experience will give you a newfound appreciation for the art and science of tea making. At the end of the workshop, you will be able to take home the tea that you have made as a unique and personal souvenir of your time in Uji.

Embark on a culinary adventure today as you explore the flavors of Uji. Start your day at a local market, where you can discover the fresh produce, seafood, and other ingredients that are used in Uji's cuisine. This is a great opportunity to see the local way of life and to sample some of the region's specialties. Be sure to try some of the local pickles, which are a popular accompaniment to many Japanese meals. In the afternoon, take a cooking class and learn how to prepare some of Uji's signature dishes. Many cooking schools offer classes that focus on matcha-based cuisine, where you can learn how to make everything from matcha soba to matcha desserts. Under the guidance of a local chef, you will learn the techniques and secrets of Japanese cooking. At the end of the class, you will be able to enjoy the delicious meal that you have prepared. This is a fun and interactive way to learn about Uji's food culture and to take home some new culinary skills.

On your penultimate day in Uji, explore the city's artistic side and enjoy a final cup of its famous tea. Start your day with a visit to Asahiyaki Pottery, a traditional pottery studio that has been producing high-quality ceramics for over 400 years. You can watch the artisans at work and admire their beautiful creations, which are known for their simple yet elegant designs. The studio also has a gallery where you can purchase some of their unique pottery as a souvenir. In the afternoon, it's time for one last tea experience. Choose a tea house that you haven't visited yet and take some time to relax and reflect on your journey through Uji. Whether you prefer a traditional tea ceremony or a more casual cup of matcha, this is a perfect opportunity to savor the flavor of Uji one last time. As you sip your tea, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this remarkable city. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice, reminiscing about your favorite moments from your 10-day adventure.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take one last stroll through the charming streets of Uji. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final visit to your favorite spot in the city. As you bid farewell to Uji, take with you the memories of its serene temples, its fragrant tea, and its warm and welcoming people. We hope you have had an unforgettable journey into the heart of Japanese tea culture. Transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM) for your departure. The journey to the airport can be made by train or by airport limousine bus. Be sure to allow plenty of time for your transfer, especially during peak hours. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.