Uji : Matcha & World Heritage Walking Tour

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. At Uji Shrine, we visit a historic Shinto shrine in Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage area known for its rich history and tea culture. We learn about Shinto beliefs, which are based on nature and the presence of spirits in natural elements. Travelers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, explore the traditional shrine grounds, and experience an important cultural site in Uji.

   30 min

2. At Ujigami Shrine, we visit one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous for its original Heian-period wooden architecture, the shrine offers a peaceful forested setting where travelers can admire historic buildings and experience Japan’s early Shinto traditions.

   30 min

3. At Byodoin Temple, we visit a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Phoenix Hall and beautiful gardens. This tour includes admission, allowing travelers to explore the historic buildings, admire the architecture and scenery, and learn about the cultural and historical significance of one of Japan’s most iconic temples.

   45 minAdmission included

4. At a traditional tea house, we enjoy a hands-on matcha experience using premium Kanbayashi Sanen tea, a three-star quality green tea from Uji. Travelers can learn the proper way to prepare and whisk matcha, taste the rich, smooth tea, and appreciate the artistry and culture of Uji’s famous tea tradition.

   1 hAdmission included

5. At Byodoin Omotesando, we stroll along the lively main street leading to Byodoin Temple. Travelers can enjoy traditional shops, local snacks, and souvenirs, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Uji while taking in views of the surrounding historic town.

   30 min

6. At Uji Bridge, we take a short scenic stop at one of the oldest bridges in Japan, offering beautiful views of the Uji River. We learn about the area’s historical importance as the gateway to Uji and its cultural connection to tea and pilgrimage routes. Travelers can enjoy a peaceful walk, take photos of the river scenery, and experience the calm atmosphere that makes Uji such a special place.

   5 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 5 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Uji

• Its from-price is 42% below the median of the 23 experiences we list in Uji.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 10 of 23.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Uji

Uji is a tea town on a river south of Kyoto, with the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin, a Tale of Genji museum and centuries of matcha-growing.

Uji stands on the Uji River in southern Kyoto Prefecture, a town of tea merchants and old temples between Kyoto and Nara. Byodoin, a temple whose Phoenix Hall dates from 1053, mirrors its graceful wings in a pond and is part of the UNESCO Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Across the river, Ujigami Shrine has one of the oldest surviving shrine buildings in Japan.

See all 23 experiences in Uji