Uji: UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour

Uji’s rich cultural heritage comes alive on this captivating walking tour. Explore the renowned Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Stroll across picturesque bridges and visit Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine, all while savoring local culinary delights. This 3-hour journey offers a unique opportunity to discover Uji’s renowned tea culture and historic landmarks. With a small group, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that will leave you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our article of 11 Best Tours in Uji.

Key Points

• This 3-hour walking tour in Uji showcases the city’s cultural and historical highlights, including visits to the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple and a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
• The tour includes guided visits to Uji Shrine, Ujigami Shrine, and scenic suspension bridges, providing an immersive experience in Uji’s rich heritage.
• The tour is limited to a small group size of up to 9 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
• Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring cash, and note that photography and videography are prohibited during the tea ceremony.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, such as mobility issues, heart problems, or respiratory conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Uji: UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour offers a compelling 3-hour experience that explores the rich cultural and historical aspects of Uji.

Priced from Kč 1,763 to Kč 1,587 per person, with up to 10% savings, the tour includes guided visits to Byodoin Temple, a tea ceremony at Taihoan, and tours of Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine.

Participants will also enjoy local snacks and a scenic walk across suspension bridges.

With a small group size limited to 9, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience.

Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, and travelers can reserve now and pay later.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Uji Station, the tour takes participants on a 3-hour journey through Uji’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors explore Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a 50-minute guided tour.

Next, they’ll experience a 40-minute traditional tea ceremony at Taihoan.

The tour continues with visits to Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine, each with a 20-minute guided tour.

Participants then enjoy 40 minutes sampling local snacks.

The scenic highlight is a walk across the Tachibara and Asagiri suspension bridges before finishing at the iconic Uji Bridge.

Cultural Experiences

Participants on this tour can enjoy Uji’s rich cultural heritage.

They’ll learn about the area’s history on a guided walking tour. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The highlight is a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, the birthplace of tea culture. Guests will witness the precise, time-honored ritual and savor Uji’s renowned green tea.

The tour also includes visits to the iconic Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine.

Along the way, travelers can sample local culinary treats, enhancing their cultural experience in this picturesque town.

Participant Information

This tour is limited to a small group size of 9 participants or fewer.

The meeting point is the JR Uji Station’s south exit, where you’ll need to arrive at least 10 minutes early.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, or respiratory conditions.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring cash.

Photography and videography are prohibited during the tea ceremony, which is conducted in Japanese with the guide translating.

Allow extra travel time due to heavy morning traffic in the area.

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Important Information

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes and cash, as photography and videography are prohibited during the tea ceremony, which is conducted in Japanese with the guide translating. Arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes early, as heavy morning traffic may cause delays. Be prepared for the following:

What to Bring	Photo/Video Recording	Ceremony Language	Arrival Time
Comfortable shoes, cash	Prohibited during tea ceremony	Conducted in Japanese, guide translates	At least 10 minutes early

The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or respiratory conditions.

Visiting Byodoin Temple

The tour begins with a guided visit to the iconic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Guests explore this stunning example of Pure Land Buddhism architecture, admiring its Phoenix Hall’s elegant curves and iconic pond.

The guide shares the temple’s rich history, tracing its origins back to the 11th century.

Visitors learn about the temple’s significance in Japanese culture and its role in the development of Uji as a center of Buddhist learning.

The 50-minute tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to appreciate Byodoin’s architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

Experiencing the Tea Ceremony

Next, participants are ushered into the serene Taihoan, where they experience the graceful ritual of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Under the guidance of a skilled tea master, they learn the intricate steps involved in preparing and serving matcha, the renowned green tea of Uji. The ceremony unfolds with meticulous precision, from the cleansing of the tea bowl to the presentation of the frothy, vibrant brew. This immersive cultural experience invites guests to savor the moment, engage their senses, and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and tranquility of the Japanese tea tradition.

Sights	Sounds	Smells
Serene teahouse	Soft whisk against ceramic	Earthy aroma of matcha
Elegant tea utensils	Quiet conversation	Floral notes of green tea
Zen-like atmosphere	Gentle clink of cup	Subtle scent of incense
Precisely choreographed movements	Contemplative silence	Crisp, fresh air
Vibrant green tea	Host’s measured speech	Comforting warmth

Exploring Uji’s Scenic Landmarks

Following the tea ceremony, the tour continues with a guided exploration of Uji’s scenic landmarks.

Visitors will discover the historic Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the iconic Phoenix Hall.

After, they’ll cross the Tachibana and Asagiri suspension bridges, offering panoramic vistas of the Uji River.

The tour then visits the Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine, providing insight into Uji’s rich cultural heritage.

Throughout the walk, the guide shares engaging commentary, bringing the destination’s history and traditions to life.

This diverse itinerary showcases Uji’s architectural gems and natural beauty in an immersive, informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Byodoin Temple on My Own?

Yes, you can visit Byodoin Temple on your own. The temple is open to the public and does not require a guided tour. However, a guided tour can provide more context and insights about the temple’s history and significance.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tea Ceremony?

The tea ceremony doesn’t have a strict dress code, but participants should wear comfortable, casual clothing. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or flip-flops. The focus is on the experience, not on formal dress.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not suitable for children. It’s recommended for adults only due to the nature of the tea ceremony and the inability to accommodate the needs of young participants.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

There are no dedicated opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the tour. However, visitors can explore the local shops and markets after the tour at their own pace to find Uji-related souvenirs and keepsakes.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Local Snacks?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the local snacks. However, it’s best to notify the tour provider of any dietary needs in advance so they can accommodate you accordingly.

The Sum Up

This UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour in Uji offers a captivating blend of culture and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the iconic Byodoin Temple, partake in a traditional tea ceremony, and discover Uji’s renowned tea culture, all while enjoying guided visits to shrines and scenic bridges. With a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and enriching experience of Uji’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: