Travelling with kids aged 10 and 7 through Japan, armed with our JR Pass, we set off for Uji—just outside Kyoto —for a day full of culture, tea, and discovery, before continuing our adventure to Osaka. Here’s how our adventure unfolded, plus up-to-date tips you won’t want to miss.
From Kyoto to Uji: Scenic Train Ride
We caught the train early from Kyoto. With our JR Pass covering the JR Nara Line, it was a relaxing ~17–20 minute ride to JR Uji Station. Along the way, rolling hills, rivers, rice paddies and occasional temple roofs offered our first glimpses of Japan beyond the city lights. The kids were buzzing—there’s something magical in seeing Japan’s countryside pass by framed by train windows.
Breakfast & Matcha Brunch Options in Uji
We arrived in Uji hungry! For a cozy start, we made our way to Stubucks with good matcha treats. You can also consider trying a local tea house or matcha café early in the day—many open by 8 or 9 AM. The fresh smell of green tea pancakes (or matcha latte) is a far better wake-up call.
Exploring Uji’s Heritage: Byōdō-in, Ujigami Shrine & More
After eating, we explored Byōdō-in Temple, the jewel of Uji heritage. Dating to 1052, its Phoenix Hall (Ho-o-dō) is so iconic, it’s on the 10-yen coin.
Then we visited Ujigami Shrine, possibly Japan’s oldest existing shrine building, with origins in the Heian period.
We also strolled along Uji River, crossed the historic Uji Bashi Bridge, and soaked in peace and the gentle flow of the river—perfect for kids who need space to wander.
Taste of Uji: Tea, Sweets & Local Flavours
Uji is famous for its tea. Don’t miss:
- Trying freshly whisked matcha or matcha sweets (ice cream, parfaits, tea cakes) at a house like Nakamura Tokichi or another long-established tea shop.
- Sampling cha-soba (tea-infused noodles) or simple soba and tempura in local eateries.
- Visiting tea fields or leaf-drying operations if open, or a tea ceremony experience if available.
Hidden Gems & Practical Tips for Families
- Most temples/shrines have hours around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Ujigami Shrine, Byōdō-in etc. close around 5-5:30 PM. Plan accordingly.
- The Nintendo Museum in Uji (Ogura area) is newer, popular with families. Adds variety to history and tea.
- Ogura area has charming cafés, retro Showa-era alleys, quiet streets. Great for relaxing or avoiding big crowds.
- Summer: cormorant fishing (UKAI) happens evenings from mid-June to late September. Very atmospheric but weather and light matter.
Evening in Uji and Heading to Osaka
As afternoon fades, shops around the main areas begin to close (often by 4:30-5:00 PM). We grabbed an early dinner in Uji, then took the train to Osaka, where city lights and street food awaited us. Our hearts full of temples, tea aroma, river breezes—and yes, a bit tired—but thoroughly delighted.
Why Uji Left a Mark on Us?
This one-day trip reminded us how a place doesn’t have to be huge to be powerful. With kids, the slower pace, the quiet temple gardens, the smell of tatami and tea, the stories behind ancient buildings—they all wove together into something unforgettable. Rather than rushing from landmark to landmark, we let the moments soak in.
Local Culture & Surprising Facts:
Matcha isn’t just for tea: in Uji, you’ll find matcha-flavoured ramen? Not so much. But you will find matcha sweets, matcha ice cream, matcha café drinks, tea leaves for souvenirs, and even tea-infused soba. The intensity of matcha taste here tends to be higher than what you find in many cafés elsewhere.
Uji was the setting for the last ten chapters of The Tale of Genji, the world’s oldest novel. These parts of the tale are called Uji Jujo.
The Byōdō-in Museum (Hōshō-kan) uses digital reconstructions to show what Phoenix Hall interiors looked like in their original bright colours—useful for kids who enjoy visuals.
Uji’s Uji bridge not only offers a beautiful view but is historically significant: one of the oldest bridges, and often features in poetry & art about the river.
FAQs About Our Trip To Uji:
- Is one day enough to explore Uji?
Yes — if you plan wisely. A full day gives you enough time to visit main highlights: Byōdō-in Temple, Ujigami Shrine, stroll along Uji River, enjoy tea and sweets, and maybe explore Ogura’s cafés or the Nintendo Museum. Starting early helps maximize daylight and visiting hours. - How do you get from Kyoto to Uji?
The easiest way is via the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to JR Uji Station (~17–20 minutes). Alternatively, from Gion/Kawaramachi you can use the Keihan Line to Keihan Uji Station. Both are frequent and covered by the JR Pass or local pass depending on your route. - What are must-see places in Uji for families?
Must-see: Byōdō-in Temple (Phoenix Hall), Ujigami Shrine, Uji River & Uji Bridge, tea-shops & matcha sweets. Also, for kids: the digital exhibits at Byōdō-in museum, hands-on tea experiences, and Naka-Uji / Ogura cafés. - When is the best time to visit Uji?
Best seasons: spring (cherry blossoms), early summer (hydrangeas bloom), autumn (leaf-colour), and evenings for cormorant fishing in summer (mid-June to late September). Avoid midday heat in summer; mid-week for fewer crowds. - Is there actually a Uji Castle?
No official “Uji Castle” exists today as a major attraction. The historic landmarks are temples, shrines, gardens, and cultural sites — especially Byōdō-in and Ujigami. If you meant one of those, you’ll find plenty to explore. - Where to eat and what to try in Uji?
Try matcha sweets & drinks, tea houses like Nakamura Tokichi, local soba or tempura shops, cha-soba, and small cafés in Ogura and around Naka-Uji. Early-morning cafés offer fresh matcha-based breakfast options. - Can Uji be done as a day-trip from Osaka?
Yes. From Osaka it’s a bit longer than from Kyoto, but still very doable in a day. Use JR or Keihan trains; start early, and plan travel times so you aren’t squeezing in temple visits at last minute.
