Uji

The Byōdō-in in Uji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an outstanding example of Heian architecture. Originally a villa of Regent Fujiwara no Yorimichi, it was converted into a Buddhist temple in 1052; a year later, the Phoenix Hall was built. This most famous building, the Phoenix Hall (Hōō-dō), is depicted on the Japanese 10-yen coin and appears to float above the Aji-ike Pond. It represents the Pure Land paradise and houses an impressive Amida Buddha statue. In the modern Hōshōkan Museum, you can admire original art treasures such as the bronze phoenixes and the temple bell that once adorned the hall. Our tip: Visit the temple early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and capture the best lighting for photos of the reflecting Phoenix Hall in the pond. Also, plan time for the surrounding gardens, which invite meditation.

The **Manpuku-ji** in Uji is a unique temple that distinctly stands out from most Japanese Zen temples. It was founded in 1661 by the Chinese monk Ingen Ryūki and serves as the head temple of the Ōbaku school of Zen Buddhism. Its architecture reflects the late Ming Dynasty style, evident in its curved roofs, colorful decorations, and building layout. Here you'll find a fascinating blend of Chinese and Japanese culture, manifested in the details of the halls and statues.Upon entering the grounds, you'll immediately sense the special atmosphere. Note the Tenno-den with its distinctive Hotei statue and the Daiohōden, the main hall. The tranquil gardens invite you to linger. Our tip: It's best to visit Manpuku-ji on weekday mornings to fully appreciate the tranquility and architectural details undisturbed. The main gate, with its imposing structure, offers a unique photo opportunity.

The Ujigami Shrine in Uji is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was considered a guardian shrine for the opposite Byodo-in Temple and is closely associated with the imperial family. Here you will find an outstanding example of Nagare-zukuri architecture, particularly evident in the Honden (main hall), which dates from the late Heian period and is considered Japan's oldest existing shrine structure. The simple elegance of the wooden construction and the tranquil surroundings invite contemplation. Note that the Honden houses three small shrines under a single roof.In the Haiden (prayer hall) from the Kamakura period, you can admire the fine details of the woodworking. The shrine is also known for its Kiriharasui spring, one of Uji's seven famous springs. Our Tip: Visit the shrine in the early morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere without the larger crowds. For an atmospheric photo, the view from the entrance towards the main buildings is ideal, especially when the morning light gently illuminates the wooden structures.

Taihoan is a traditional teahouse in Uji, a city renowned worldwide for its high-quality green tea. Here you have the opportunity to participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony and experience the region's rich tea culture firsthand. The teahouse offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere, typical of Japanese aesthetics. You will be introduced to the preparation and enjoyment of Matcha, often accompanied by traditional sweets. This experience provides a deep insight into Japanese hospitality and the significance of tea in cultural life. Our Tip: Visit Taihoan in the morning to enjoy the relaxed ambiance before the largest crowds arrive. Pay attention to the details of the ceremony and the tranquility of the place to fully savour the experience. A visit here is an excellent complement to a stroll through Uji's tea fields.

The small Eishin-in (Eshin-in) lies upstream of the Uji Bridge on the Uji River and belongs to the Chizan school of Shingon Buddhism. According to tradition, it dates back to Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi); in the early 11th century, the monk Genshin, also known as Eshin Sōzu, is said to have revived it, and the temple derives its current name from him.Eishin-in is known as the "Flower Temple": Throughout the year, various plants bloom in rotation in its garden, and the foliage changes colour in autumn. The temple is significantly quieter than the Byōdō-in on the other side of the river. Our tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Ujigami Shrine and come in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft.