← Kyoto journeys
Discover More Kyoto · Jul 28, 2026
Uji Tea and River Loop
宇治茶と宇治川の散歩
Tea, temple architecture, and a quieter river walk south of Kyoto.
Plan your visit
Last verified: 2026-07-28
- Opening hours
- Byodo-in and tea shops keep separate hours.
- Admission
- Byodo-in admission applies; river walks are free.
- Best time
- 09:00-15:00 on a weekday
- Duration
- 5-6 hours
- Nearest station
- JR Uji or Keihan Uji Station
- Getting there
- Use JR for speed or Keihan when coming from Gion.
What to know
Uji is one of the easiest ways to slow a Kyoto trip down. It combines a major World Heritage site, serious tea culture, and a riverside walk without requiring a car.
A half-day route
- Arrive at JR Uji or Keihan Uji Station in the morning.
- Visit Byodo-in and allow time for the museum inside the grounds.
- Cross the river and walk toward Ujigami Shrine.
- Return through Byodo-in Omotesando for matcha, gyokuro, or seasonal sweets.
Add Nintendo only with a ticket
The Nintendo Museum is in nearby Ogura. Admission is timed and sold in advance, so do not travel there hoping for a walk-in ticket. Pair it with Uji only after your museum time is confirmed.
Choose one proper tea stop instead of collecting several matcha desserts. Ask how the tea should be brewed and notice the difference between matcha, sencha, and gyokuro.