Ujigami Shrine | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

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Ujigami Shrine

A sacred power spot revered since ancient times.

8 Sep 2026 See More

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.

Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Uji Shrine

The Uji Shrine, the guardian deity of Uji, has a history spanning 1710 years since its founding in 313 AD, the year Emperor Nintoku ascended to the throne.
- Uji, Joyo, Yawata
- Shrines & Temples
8 Sep 2026 See More

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.
Byodoin

An imperial authority in the Heian Period, Fujiwara Michinaga used this place as a vacation home. His son Yorimichi inherited, converted and opened it as a temple in 1052. It was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1994. The remodeling in 2014 brought it back closer to its original state. The main Amida Buddha statue in Amida Hall is worth a look. You will be amazed by the symmetrical beauty of the building.
- Uji, Joyo, Yawata
- Shrines & Temples
8 Sep 2026 See More

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.
Itohkyuemon Uji Main Store Tea Room

Itohkyuemon, a long-established tea shop founded in 1832 (Tenpo 3), is located in Uji, one of Japan's leading producers of high-quality tea leaves. While preserving the traditions passed down since its founding, the shop continuously develops new matcha sweets, introducing new values of tea to the world.
- Uji, Joyo, Yawata
- Cafés
8 Sep 2026 See More

Another famous shop in Uji is the long-established Itohkyuemon, which is as renowned as Nakamura Tokichi. For matcha lovers, it's a must-visit pilgrimage spot in Uji.

Unlike most tea shops that mainly serve sweets, this place thoughtfully offers a wide variety of savory dishes. The classic choice is the matcha soba. The noodles are springy with a subtle tea aroma, and they're very refreshing with the special dipping sauce. You can even choose them in a hot broth, perfect for anyone who wants a proper meal.

After filling up, the main event has to be their famous signature matcha parfait. A tall glass is layered with rich, bittersweet matcha ice cream, chewy shiratama, handmade tea jelly, and sweet red beans. It offers plenty of different textures without being overly sweet, and seasonal flavors like cherry blossom and chestnut are also available. Starting with a bowl of refreshing savory tea noodles and finishing with an elaborate parfait is the ultimate Uji experience, with both savory and sweet delights!