Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Uji Bridge is a representative bridge spanning the Uji River in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, and is an iconic landmark of the city of Uji. It has long been a key transportation hub, and is closely associated with the setting of the Heian period literary work "The Tale of Genji," making it a beloved place of great historical and cultural value. The current bridge has been replaced or restored over the years, and is attractive for its charming scenery that harmonizes with the surrounding temples and shrines (Byodoin Temple and Ujikami Shrine) and teahouses. Its changing appearance with each season, from the cherry blossoms of spring, the fresh greenery of early summer, the autumn leaves, and the clear air of winter, makes it a popular spot for photography and strolling.
Highlights
- View of the Uji River: From the bridge, you can enjoy the view of the gently flowing Uji River and the opposite bank. The scenery reflected on the water's surface, the stones on the riverbed, and the occasional small boats passing by are also picturesque.
- Gateway to Byodo-in Temple and Ujikami Shrine: Crossing the bridge provides easy access to the World Heritage Sites Byodo-in Temple and Ujikami Shrine, making this the starting point for sightseeing routes.
- Connection to the Tale of Genji: This spot has a strong connection to Heian literature, making it a must-see for anyone interested in literary history. There are also exhibition facilities related to the Tale of Genji in the surrounding area.
- Tea-producing and gourmet stroll: Uji is a famous tea-producing region. The area around the bridge is lined with long-established tea shops and matcha sweets shops, so you can enjoy Uji tea while strolling.
- Seasonal scenery: The beauty of each season, such as cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves, stands out, making it a popular spot for photography.
- Night view and illuminations (limited seasons): During events and special times, the surrounding temples, shrines, and bridges are sometimes lit up, creating a different atmosphere than during the day.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Nara Line "Uji Station" and Keihan Railway "Keihan Uji Station"
- From Keihan Uji Station: About a 3-5 minute walk. Leave the station and head along the river to reach the bridge.
- From JR Uji Station: About a 10-15 minute walk. Follow the tourist signs to the Byodoin Temple area for an easy route.
- From Kyoto City: Approximately 20-30 minutes on the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station (depending on the train type and time of day). If you are using the Keihan Line, you can access the shrine by transferring at Sanjo or Gion-Shijo.
- Car/bus: Accessible from Kyoto via public roads and toll roads. There are paid parking lots and temple/shrine parking lots in the area, but they may fill up during the tourist season, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Uji Bridge tour only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including photography and strolling)
- If you also visit nearby temples and shrines such as Byodo-in Temple and Ujigami Shrine: 2 to 3 hours
- Half-day tour including relaxing at a teahouse and visiting the museum: 3-5 hours
Nearby spots
- Byodo-in Temple (World Heritage Site): A national treasure temple known for its Phoenix Hall. The gardens and museum are also worth seeing.
- Ujikami Shrine (World Heritage Site): This shrine is one of the oldest remaining shrine buildings in Japan and is an Important Cultural Property.
- Tale of Genji Museum: A museum that introduces the connection between The Tale of Genji and Uji.
- Chaya District, a long-established Uji tea district: A concentration of shops where you can enjoy matcha sweets and tea tasting.
- Uji River Promenade: A promenade along the river where you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. There are also operators offering houseboat rides and river cruises.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area will be extremely crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, during cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, Golden Week, and during the autumn tourist season. In particular, there will be queues to enter the area around Byodo-in Temple, and pedestrians will be stuck in queues, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Photography etiquette: Standing for long periods of time on bridges or narrow sidewalks or using tripods may be a nuisance to other pedestrians. Please be considerate of your surroundings when taking photos.
- Slipperiness and safety: The road surface can become slippery during rainy weather and winter, so be careful where you step. Although there are fences along the river, please keep an eye on your children.
- Manners at religious facilities: When visiting nearby temples and shrines, please maintain quiet and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in designated areas.
- Use of drones, etc.: Flying drones without permission is often prohibited around tourist spots and shrines and temples. Please follow local rules and regulations.
- Business Hours and Store Information: Business hours of the surrounding teahouses and facilities may change depending on the season and day of the week, so it is best to check the official information in advance.
Uji Bridge is a place where you can experience history, nature, and Japanese tea culture all at once. Even a short stroll will give you a taste of the area, and it's also a great place for a half-day trip to visit the surrounding temples, shrines, and teahouses. When you visit, please be mindful of crowds and be considerate of those around you, and enjoy your time at a leisurely pace.
