Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ujigami Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, and is known as one of the oldest surviving shrine buildings in Japan. The main hall, built in the late Heian period (roughly the 11th to 12th centuries), has been well preserved over the years and has been designated a National Treasure. In addition, along with Byodoin Temple and the historical landscape of Uji, it has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Cultural Monuments of Ancient Kyoto."
Its distinctive features include the beauty of its simple and calm wooden architecture, the simple structure of the shrine building with minimal ornamentation, and the appearance of its small grounds surrounded by a quiet riverside environment.Its greatest appeal is that it is slightly away from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots, allowing you to quietly enjoy an atmosphere that breathes history.
Highlights
- Main Hall (National Treasure): A valuable relic that conveys the architectural style of the late Heian period. You can take your time to observe the beauty of the structure that can be seen from the exterior. The interior is usually closed to the public, so it is mainly viewed from the outside.
- Worship hall and grounds: The small grounds have a calm atmosphere with trees and stone pavement. It is also suitable for photography (there are restrictions inside the building).
- Surrounding scenery: It is close to the Uji River and Byodoin Temple's Phoenix Hall, so it is a good idea to combine this with a stroll along the river and a course that takes in the views of Uji Bridge.
- Seasonal colors: You can enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn. The contrast between the trees in the background and the old building is particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Uji Station on the JR Nara Line or Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line.
- Approximate travel time from the station
- Walk from JR Uji Station: Approximately 15-20 minutes (via Byodoin Temple)
- Walking from Keihan Uji Station: Approximately 10-15 minutes
- Walking distance from Byodoin Temple (Byodoin Phoenix Hall): Approximately 3-5 minutes
- From Kyoto city:
- JR Kyoto Station → JR Nara Line (towards Uji) approx. 20-25 minutes (varies slightly depending on the rapid train and section)
- Access is also possible via Keihan Railway (via Demachiyanagi direction) (transfer required)
- By car: As the surrounding area is a tourist destination, parking is limited. If you are visiting by car, we recommend using a nearby paid parking lot or using public transportation.
- Precincts: Free to visit (the precincts themselves are generally open to the public). Visits to the interior of the shrine building are often restricted.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- If you want to leisurely look around Ujigami Shrine alone: Approximately 20 to 40 minutes
- Sightseeing around Byodo-in Temple, the Uji River area, and teahouses, including breaks: 1.5 to 3 hours
- If you want to take your time to visit historical sites, museums, and teahouses: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Byodoin Temple (Phoenix Hall): Just a few minutes walk away. This is a World Heritage site that represents Uji, and the Phoenix Hall is a must-see.
- Uji River and Uji Bridge: A scenic spot perfect for strolling and taking photos.
- Tale of Genji Museum: A facility where you can learn about the connection between the Tale of Genji and Uji.
- Teahouses and Matcha Sweets Shops: Uji is a famous producer of matcha, and you can enjoy tea dumplings and matcha parfaits.
- There are many spots that can be enjoyed depending on the season and time of day, such as the Uji City Tale of Genji Museum and the riverside terrace on the Uji River (seasonal).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area around Byodoin Temple gets crowded during peak tourist seasons (cherry blossom viewing, Golden Week, autumn foliage viewing, autumn holidays, etc.). If you want to visit quietly, we recommend visiting early in the morning or in the evening.
- Manners: The interior of the shrine is usually closed to the public, so you can only view it from the outside. Please be quiet within the grounds and do not disturb other worshippers. It is best to follow the proper worship etiquette (bow once in front of the torii gate, wash your hands, bow twice, clap twice, bow once more, etc.).
- Photography: In most cases, you may be able to take photos of the grounds and exteriors of the shrine buildings, but please follow the instructions of festivals and related parties. Photography inside the shrine buildings may be prohibited.
- Clothing and footing: There are stone steps and gravel paths around the shrine, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Be careful as the path can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Facility information may change: Shrine buildings may be temporarily closed due to opening status, events, or maintenance. Please check the latest information with official or local information centers before visiting.
Although Ujikami Shrine is small in scale, it is a precious place where ancient architecture remains in a tranquil state. Enjoy the history and scenery at your leisure, along with Byodo-in Temple and Uji's tea culture.
