Uji is one of Kyoto’s greenest towns, and for good reason! After all, it’s the matcha green tea capital of Japan – here’s a quick guide…
Cycle Along Uji River
As a tourist, you’ll likely travel to Uji via railway, disembarking at either the Keihan Uji Station or the JR Uji Station. However, if you yearn for adventure, you may opt to cycle! Simply visit one of Japan’s many bicycle shops, such as Kon’s Cycle and get yourself a pair of wheels for the day.
The Uji River is a beautiful body of water that extends all along Kyoto’s southern district, eventually turning into the Yodogawa River as it enters Osaka. As such, there are plenty of starting locations where you can begin your cycling journey along the Uji River. Simply find your nearest bicycle shop and map out a route along the riverside to Uji Station.
See The Green Tea Fields
Once you get closer to Uji City, you’ll notice a distinct change in the scenery. As you enter the matcha green tea capital of Japan, you will notice everything quite literally becomes more green. This is due to the ideal farming conditions where tea leaves are grown for the iconic world-renowned “Uji Matcha,” which offers a more premium tea drinking experience.
Hike Up Mt. Daikichi
One of my favorite activities in Uji is the Mt. Daikichi hike. A simple inclined trail of no more than 30 minutes to the top, it allows you to breathe in nature’s fresh air as you stroll through thick forests and high altitudes. The view from the top of Mt. Daikichi is truly magnificent, especially for such a short hike!
Visit Koshoji Temple
Easily the most underrated landmark of Uji is the Koshoji Temple, likely due to its location at the end of the public tourist guide map. Furthermore, there is a long hill that must be ascended in order to reach this beautiful heritage site, and few are willing to make the journey. Stunning Japanese gardens with aesthetic bonsai trees all throughout, there is a calm and healing atmosphere at Koshoji Temple which simply must be experienced to understand!
Shop At Byodo-in Omotesando
If you’re a lover of matcha green tea, then Byodo-in Omotesando is the place to be! Premium Uji matcha in all its forms from soft-serve ice cream to mochi and even matcha-flavored ramen can be enjoyed on this popular shopping street! Of course, there are plenty of souvenir shops for you to take home a piece of Uji with you!
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