Uji Itinerary 3 Days: A Journey Through Matcha and History (2026)

Arrive in Uji and begin your journey by exploring its most iconic landmark, the Byodoin Temple. Originally built in 998 as a rural villa for a powerful politician, it was later converted into a temple. The most famous building is the Phoenix Hall, which is featured on the back of the 10 yen coin. Take your time to admire the intricate architecture and the beautiful Pure Land Garden that surrounds it. Inside the temple's museum, you can see a collection of treasures, including the original temple bell and phoenix statues. After visiting Byodoin, take a leisurely stroll along the Byodoin Omotesando, a charming street leading to the temple. This street is lined with tea shops that have been in business for generations. Stop at Nakamura Tokichi Honten, one of the most famous tea houses, for a traditional matcha set or a delicious parfait. In the afternoon, cross the Uji Bridge, one of Japan's oldest bridges, and visit the Ujigami Shrine. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is believed to be the oldest standing shrine in Japan. The serene atmosphere and ancient wooden structures provide a stark contrast to the grandeur of Byodoin.

Dedicate your second day to the literary and tea heritage of Uji. Start at The Tale of Genji Museum, which brings to life the world of the 11th-century novel, considered by many to be the world's first. The last ten chapters of the story are set in Uji, and the museum uses intricate dioramas and films to depict the aristocratic life of the Heian period. It's a fascinating insight into Japanese culture and history, even if you haven't read the book. In the afternoon, delve deeper into Uji's tea culture. Visit a local tea plantation, such as the ones in the surrounding hills, to learn about the cultivation and harvesting process. Many plantations offer tours and tea-picking experiences (seasonally). Afterwards, head to a tea house like Mitsuboshien Kanbayashi Sannyu Honten, which has a history of over 450 years, for a hands-on matcha-making workshop. Learn the art of whisking the perfect bowl of matcha from a tea master. For dinner, try some cha-soba (green tea noodles), a local specialty.

On your final day, enjoy the natural beauty of Uji. Start with a walk along the Uji River, which offers picturesque views, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. You can also take a traditional cormorant fishing boat tour in the summer months. Cross over to the small island in the middle of the river, which is a lovely spot for a picnic. From there, visit Koshoji Temple, a Zen temple known for its beautiful approach lined with maple trees, making it particularly stunning in the fall. In the afternoon, venture a little further out to Mimurotoji Temple, also known as the 'flower temple'. It boasts a vast garden with thousands of flowers that bloom throughout the year, including azaleas, hydrangeas, and lotuses. It's a peaceful and colorful place to spend a few hours. Before leaving Uji, do some last-minute souvenir shopping for high-quality green tea and matcha-flavored sweets to take home with you. Enjoy a final matcha ice cream before catching your train.