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Before you go
Your trip to Uji.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Uji – Kyoto Destination Kyoto about 17 km from Kyoto
How to get there
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Aeroporto Internacional de Kansai (KIX) Izumisano · 85 km
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Estação Uji (JR) 1 km
Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.
From Kyoto Station, the JR Nara Line reaches Uji Station in about 20 minutes by rapid train. The Keihan Line connects Uji with central Kyoto, with a transfer at Chushojima. From Nara, the same JR line takes about 40 minutes.
How many days
Half a day is enough for Byodo-in, Ujigami Shrine and the riverbank. A full day lets you add the Tale of Genji Museum, a tea ceremony and a walk among the river’s isles. Many people combine Uji with Fushimi Inari, which lies on the route from Kyoto.
When to go
April and May, when the wisteria at Byodo-in bloom in late April and the tea plants show fresh leaves. November brings autumn colors to the riverside. In summer, from July to September, there are often evening boat trips with cormorant fishing on the Uji River.
The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.
Do you need a car?
No. The JR and Keihan stations are about a 10-minute walk from both World Heritage sites, and the historic centre is walkable.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in Uji
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Morning
Byodo-in
Arrive at Byodo-in at opening, buy the ticket for the interior of Phoenix Hall and visit the Hoshokan museum.
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Afternoon
Uji River and Ujigami Shrine
Cross the river via the isles to Ujigami Shrine, stop by the Tale of Genji Museum and finish at a teahouse near Uji Bridge.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth visiting Uji from Kyoto?
Yes, as a half-day trip: about 20 minutes by train to see two World Heritage sites, Byodo-in and Ujigami Shrine, and taste the region’s tea.
Why is Uji famous for tea?
The region has cultivated tea since the Middle Ages and is known for matcha and gyokuro, green teas made from leaves shaded before harvest. Shops in town sell teas, sweets and matcha ice cream.
Can I combine Uji and Fushimi Inari in the same day?
Yes. Inari Station is on the same JR Nara Line between Kyoto and Uji. One option is Fushimi Inari early in the morning and Uji in the afternoon.
Where can I do a tea ceremony in Uji?
There are teahouses by the river, such as Taihoan, run by the city, that offer short ceremonies. Check hours and reservations before you go.
How long does it take from Nara to Uji?
About 40 minutes on the JR Nara Line. You can visit Uji en route between Kyoto and Nara.
Beyond the guide
