Uji

Uji is a city in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, located along the Uji River in the southern part of the prefecture. It lies within the Kyoto region and functions as a historic suburb of Kyoto. The area experiences a temperate climate with hot summers and cool winters.

Historically, Uji is one of Japan’s oldest urban centers and developed as an administrative and cultural hub during the Heian period (794–1185). It is renowned for Byodo-in Temple, a Buddhist temple founded in the 11th century whose Phoenix Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Heian-era aesthetics. The temple is also depicted on the 10-yen coin. Uji has a long association with tea production; Uji-cha (Uji tea) is a revered green tea known for its delicate aroma and flavor, produced in the surrounding tea estates since the medieval period.

Geography and culture enrich the city’s appeal. The Uji River and nearby hills create scenic landscapes that attract visitors, especially during autumn foliage and river excursions. Tourism, along with tea production and related crafts, forms a central part of the local economy. Uji also features traditional markets and cultural events linked to its long-standing tea culture and historical sites.

Transportation is well developed, with JR West’s Nara Line and the Keihan Electric Railway’s Uji Line serving the city, connecting Uji with Kyoto, Nara, and surrounding areas. This accessibility supports both daily life and tourism.