Representing two distinct wards of Kyoto prefecture, the Yamashina River and Uji River intersect at this beautiful location near Mukaijima.
The Yamashina-Uji intersection is a term I’ve coined for this unique crossroads where the Yamashina River meets the Uji River.
The Uji River runs from Osaka (where it’s called the Yodo River) to the southern part of Kyoto prefecture. Meanwhile, the Yamashina River runs from the Yamashina ward in East Kyoto down toward the southern end of the prefecture.
Inevitably, the Uji River splits into the Yamashina River at some point along the railway line between Kangetsukyo station and Momoyama Minamiguchi station.
Where to find the Yamashina-Uji intersection
The Yamashina-Uji intersection can be located a short walk from Kangetsukyo station and the Yodogawa Bridge.
For the most part, the walking path parallel to the railway tracks is adjacent to the Uji River, that is until you reach this iconic split in the river.
The Uji River swerves to the right and heads to the east where it eventually transitions into the Seta River and, ultimately, ends at Lake Biwa.
What’s so beautiful about the Yamashina-Uji intersection is the way the rivers merge and curve around the mountains and villages to create a scenic picturesque view.
A Great Fishing Spot!
In addition to the brilliant sunrises and sunsets you can enjoy here, the Yamashina-Uji intersection is also home to an abundance of fish! It’s not uncommon to see fishermen taking full advantage of this location at all hours of the day and even into the night!
Personally, I like to sit by the river at this spot and enjoy a nice canned coffee while allowing the mind to reset. For a location so close to the urban area, you can feel an intimate connection with nature as though you are far into the wilderness.
Amazing Wildlife!
News about the fish must have gone around because you’ll often find flocks of birds gathering at the Yamashina-Uji intersection looking for a good meal in the water.
Perhaps it’s true that birds fly south for the winter because it’s in the cold months when you’ll find the biggest crowds of these winged creatures dancing by the river!
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