Discover Uji: UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour
Discover Uji: UNESCO Heritage & Tea Ceremony Walking Tour
Small Group Tour in English
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Private Tour in English
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Highlights
Embark on a captivating 3-hour walking tour through the historical heart of Uji, a city famed for its world-class green tea and rich cultural heritage. This experience weaves together sacred sites, scenic views, and traditional tea culture, offering a deeply immersive look at one of Japan’s most treasured towns.
Byodoin Temple & Phoenix Hall
Your journey begins at Uji Station, where your expert local guide will escort you to Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over a thousand years. The highlight here is the majestic Phoenix Hall, a symbol of eternal peace and beauty. As you walk the temple grounds, learn about its Heian-era origins and admire the artistry that has inspired centuries of reverence.
Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony at Taihoan
Next, step into the tranquil Taihoan Tea House for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in the birthplace of green tea. Discover the rituals of matcha preparation, guided by a tea master, and take a moment to slow down and embrace the stillness that defines Japanese hospitality and Zen culture.
Suspension Bridges, Shrines & Scenic Walks
Stroll along the Tachibana and Asagiri suspension bridges, offering picturesque views of the Uji River’s gentle flow and forested banks. Continue on to Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine—two sacred sites known for their ancient lineage and peaceful atmosphere. These quiet sanctuaries provide a spiritual retreat, echoing centuries of devotion and community life.
Matcha Tasting at Uji Bridge
Your tour ends at Uji Bridge, one of Japan’s oldest, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of locally crafted green teas and light snacks. Take time to browse quaint shops, enjoy the lively riverside atmosphere, and snap photos of this memorable journey through one of Kyoto’s hidden cultural gems.
Whether you're a history lover, tea enthusiast, or curious explorer, this Uji walking tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of cultural depth and natural beauty, leaving you with a genuine connection to Japan’s timeless traditions.
- Explore Byodoin Temple: Discover the UNESCO-listed Phoenix Hall and over 1,000 years of architectural beauty.
- Authentic Tea Ceremony at Taihoan: Learn Japan’s cherished green tea traditions in a peaceful setting.
- Scenic Riverside Walk: Stroll across Tachibana and Asagiri Bridges with panoramic views of the Uji River.
- Visit Historic Shrines: Experience the spiritual calm of Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine.
- Taste Local Delights: End your journey at Uji Bridge with green tea tastings and regional treats.
Itinerary
Duration: 3 hours (approx.)
Meeting Point: JR Uji Station – 9:45 AM
Meeting PointMeet your TripGuru guide at JR Uji Station (South Exit). The guide will be wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign.Byodoin Temple – 10:00 AM
1 hourAdmission Ticket IncludedVisit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byodoin Temple, known for its iconic Phoenix Hall and more than 1,000 years of history. Learn about its cultural and architectural significance.Tea Ceremony at Taihoan – 11:00 AM
40 minsAdmission Ticket IncludedTake part in a serene traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Taihoan. Learn about the ritual of tea-making in the city famous for green tea.Scenic Walk – 11:40 AM
10 minsGreat Photo OpportunityEnjoy a picturesque stroll across the Tachibana and Asagiri suspension bridges, offering sweeping views of the Uji River and surrounding greenery.Uji Shrine & Ujigami Shrine – 11:50 AM
15 minsAdmission Ticket FreeVisit these sacred shrines, both steeped in history. Appreciate their tranquil surroundings and significance in Japan’s spiritual culture.Uji Bridge & Local Flavors – 12:05 PM
40 minsEnd PointConclude the tour at Uji Bridge. Stroll through the area and sample Uji’s local specialties like green tea treats and sweets.End of Tour – 12:45 PM(Pass by)
Drop-off Not IncludedThe guided portion ends at Uji Bridge. Guests are free to explore the area further at their leisure.
What's included
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Customer reviews
Additional information
Meeting Point:
- JR Uji Station (South Exit)
- Look for your guide at the meeting point wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign.
Meeting Time:
- The tour starts at 9:45 AM.
- Be at your meeting point at least 10 minutes before the stated meeting time.
- Heavy traffic in the morning is expected, and can vary greatly when compared to the travel time stated in navigation apps (e.g. Google Maps, Waze, etc.).
- Consider leaving early with enough time to reach your destination.
- Small Group Tour in English: Tuesday and Sunday
- Private Tour in English: Monday - Sunday
- Children aged 0-1 can join for free, while participants aged 2 and above are charged at the adult rate.
- Camera
- Comfortable shoes
- Cash (for personal expenses)
- Photo and video recording is prohibited during tea ceremony
- Tea ceremony is conducted in Japanese only and your guide will translate for you.
Your booking will be confirmed by the provider instantly.
A full refund will be processed if cancelled at least 1 day before the date of selection. No refund will be processed if cancelled less than 1 day before the date of selection.
Show mobile or printed voucher to the staff before commencing the activity.
Upon booking confirmation, this ticket is valid on the date of selection only.
Location
Your guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign.
Provider
Uji Station
NZD 134
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Our guide Yuko was very accommodating to our requests and she provided a lot of significant information about the places we visited as well as the traditions to be observed. It was worthwhile the time and money.