If you’re a matcha lover, then a day trip to Uji needs to be a part of your Kyoto itinerary. Uji is renowned for producing some of the highest quality green tea in Japan, particularly matcha (powdered green tea) and sencha (brewed green tea). The region’s favourable climate, combined with its unique soil, creates ideal growing conditions for tea plants, making Uji the home of matcha.
Nestled between Kyoto and Nara, a day trip to Uji offers more than just a chance to try matcha treats, it is a peaceful yet exciting escape, combining tranquil temple visits with rich cultural experiences. Here’s your guide on how to make the most of a day exploring this quaint town.
How to get to Uji from Kyoto
Getting to Uji from Kyoto is both quick and easy. Just hop on the Nara Line from Kyoto Station; the train ride takes about 20 minutes, and one-way fares are affordable, usually under ¥250 (approx £1.28). This will take you into Keihan Uji Station. For those with a JR Rail Pass, the trip is included, so you can make the journey even more budget-friendly and this will take you to JR Uji Station. Once you arrive, Uji Station places you right in the heart of town, with most attractions within walking distance.
Is Uji worth a day trip?
Yes, yes, yes! Uji was one of my favourite days during my trip to Japan and it offers a beautiful contrast to Kyoto’s bustling temples and busy streets. Renowned as one of Japan’s oldest and most revered tea-producing regions, Uji brings the best of both worlds—natural beauty and a deep, cultural love for matcha. A day trip here allows you to slow down, experience the authentic flavours of Japan. Plus, the small town vibe means you can easily see a lot in just a day without feeling rushed.
How to spend a day in Uji
Here’s a perfect itinerary to experience Uji’s top attractions, from culinary highlights to historic sites:
1. Start with a Wholesome Meal at Torikiku
Once you hop off the train, start your day with a delicious, authentic meal at Torikiku, a cosy, no-frills restaurant known for its satisfying set meals. We were so keen to enjoy their freshly prepared matcha soba noodles paired with a flavorful dipping broth, crisp vegetable tempura, and pieces of sushi. It was a great start to the day and the restaurant has traditional tatami seating, which added a touch of Japanese authenticity to our meal.
2. Visit the Byodoin Temple
Next, head to the renowned Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood since the Heian period. The temple is grand and set amongst a tranquil pond making it a picturesque spot. The entrance fee of ¥700 (around £3.50) is well worth it to wander through its exquisite gardens, learn about Buddhist art at the temple museum, and get an up-close view of Japan’s beautiful history. You’ll recognise the Phoenix Hall from the ¥10 coin – we saw a few people taking a photo of the coin and wondered what it was all about!
3. Join a Matcha Workshop at Fukujuen Tea Factory
Fukujuen Tea Factory offers one of the best hands-on experiences – I highly recommend joining a workshop to learn how matcha is grown, harvested, and prepared. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to make your own matcha (what a great souvenir!) and even try different varieties. Be sure to book ahead to secure a spot, as the workshops are popular and fill up fast.
4. Pick Up Matcha Souvenirs
Take home a piece of Uji by shopping for matcha souvenirs. Fukujuen Tea Factory has a variety of tea products, including beautifully packaged matcha powder, tea sets, and accessories like matcha bowls, which make thoughtful gifts and lovely reminders of your day in Uji. Whether for a tea-loving friend or yourself, these items will let you enjoy Uji’s flavors long after your trip.
5. Enjoy a Cup of Matcha by the Uji River
Nothing says Uji quite like sipping matcha along the scenic Uji River. Stop by Fukujuen Cafe Uji, where you can order a cup of premium matcha and enjoy it with a view. The calm river setting enhances the rich, earthy taste of matcha, providing a moment of relaxation amidst the day’s activities. Take some time to soak in the ambience—this peaceful setting is truly one of the highlights of Uji.
6. Sample All the Matcha Snacks
Uji is a matcha lover’s paradise, with nearly every snack imaginable infused with the rich, vibrant flavor of green tea. Make it a goal to try as many matcha treats as you can: matcha soft serve, matcha floats, and even matcha gyoza! Local stalls and cafes around town offer endless matcha variations, and these unique flavors are a delightful way to experience the town’s culinary creativity.
7. Take Home a Souvenir from a Capsule Toy Machine
Before heading back to Kyoto, stop by one of the town’s fun capsule toy machines to pick up a unique and quirky souvenir from your day. These machines, filled with small, themed toys, are a lighthearted reminder of your day in Uji. From miniature teacups to tiny statues of famous landmarks, you never know what you’ll get, but it’s a fun and affordable way to remember your trip.
8. Take a Stroll through Daikichiyama Fuchi Park
Daikichiyama Fuchi Park is a peaceful haven that offers beautiful views and serene walking paths, perfect for a quiet break amidst the sightseeing. Located on a hill near the Uji River, the park is especially stunning in spring when cherry blossoms bloom and in autumn when vibrant red and orange leaves add colour to the landscape.
The park’s trails lead to observation points overlooking the Uji River and town below, giving you a chance to pause and take in Uji’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. For those up for a short, scenic hike, the views from Daikichiyama Fuchi Park are a rewarding highlight that perfectly complements a day spent exploring Uji’s cultural and culinary treasures.
9. Visit the Historic Kōshō-ji Temple
Another hidden gem in Uji is Kōshō-ji Temple, a serene Zen Buddhist temple nestled along the Uji River. Originally founded in the 13th century and later reconstructed in the 17th century, Kōshō-ji is known for its stunning wooden architecture, peaceful Zen gardens, and a captivating approach lined with maple trees.
The temple’s main gate, Sanmon, is an impressive sight, and its tranquil atmosphere provides a perfect moment of calm. In autumn, the grounds transform into a vibrant display of fall foliage, making it one of the most beautiful places in Uji to visit during this season. Walking through Kōshō-ji, you can feel a deep sense of history and Zen aesthetics that set this temple apart from others in the region. It’s a wonderful addition to your day, offering a quieter, more intimate experience with Japanese spirituality and nature.
Wrap up
Uji’s quiet charm, rich tea culture, and picturesque river views make it a must-visit spot near Kyoto. A day trip here allows you to dive into Japan’s matcha tradition, explore historic sites, and enjoy a slower pace. So, next time you’re in Kyoto, carve out a day to visit Uji—you’ll return with lasting memories, a relaxed mind, and maybe even a suitcase full of matcha!
