Itohkyuemon Uji Main Store Tea Room | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

After visiting Uji Shrine, follow the signs into a quiet residential alley and head uphill to reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ujigami Shrine, hidden deep among the trees.

This ancient shrine stands on the east bank of the Uji River. Unlike the bustling Byodoin Temple, there are hardly any noisy tour groups here, and most visitors are local Japanese people who come to worship devoutly. Surrounded by towering old trees, the air carries the fresh scent of earth and greenery. The entire shrine grounds feel solemn and ethereal, with a sacredness that takes your breath away. Away from the crowds, this secluded place lets you experience pure faith and the depth of passing time. It is definitely worth a special visit.

If you like quiet, uncrowded spiritual spots, don't miss Uji Shrine on the other side of the Uji River. As soon as you cross the bridge, the surrounding noise fades away, and it becomes so peaceful that it feels like entering another world.

This historic shrine has a special story. Legend says that when a prince set out for Uji, he lost his way. Fortunately, a mystical rabbit repeatedly looked back to guide him, allowing him to arrive safely. In remembrance of the legend of the “Looking-Back Rabbit,” later generations regarded it as an auspicious messenger that guides people back onto the right path in life.

After walking along the short approach, you can see cute rabbit lanterns standing quietly in the distance. Traces of warm, charming rabbits can be found throughout the small shrine, but the one thing you shouldn't miss is the adorable, round 3D “rabbit fortune.” After praying, don't forget to get one to take home. It offers the protection of a guiding light and makes a wonderful keepsake from this peaceful stroll through Uji.

We visited the famous World Cultural Heritage Site Byodoin, a classic masterpiece of the Heian-period aristocracy.

When we visited in early spring, the cherry blossoms by the pond were in full bloom. The snow-white and pale pink petals swayed in the breeze, complementing the blue sky and the vermilion hall reflected on the water, creating an exquisite, breathtaking scene. The famous Phoenix Hall is featured on the Japanese 10-yen coin, so travelers shouldn't forget to pull a coin from their pocket, line it up with the hall in the distance, and take a classic overlapping photo.

Besides admiring the grandeur of the hall from afar, the Hoshokan Museum on the grounds is also worth exploring quietly. Each National Treasure radiates a thousand years of solemnity and purity. It's a perfect place to slow down and quietly take in this timeless historical beauty amid the fragrance of flowers and the gentle breeze.