Reader’s Question: I will take my grandmother to Kyoto for sightseeing from Osaka. This time, we plan to visit Uji City, slightly deviating from famous tourist spots like Arashiyama and Kiyomizu Temple. We have plans to see Byodoin and the
Genji Monogatari Museum, and have lunch there. If we were to visit one more sightseeing spot, where would you recommend?
Exploring Uji City: A Hidden Gem Near Kyoto
Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! So, let me tell you about this recent adventure I went on with my grandmother—what a fantastic trip it was! We decided to take a little day trip from Osaka to Kyoto, but instead of hitting the usual spots like Arashiyama and Kiyomizu Temple, we opted for something a bit different: Uji City. Now, if you haven’t heard about Uji yet, buckle up, because this place is brimming with history, culture, and, of course, some amazing matcha!
Our first stop was the stunning Byodoin Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The moment we arrived, my grandmother and I were greeted by this impressive Phoenix Hall, which looks like something straight out of a postcard. Seriously, it almost felt surreal being there! We wandered around the temple grounds, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and snapping about a million photos. The intricate details of the temple’s carvings had us both gushing about how much artistry went into creating such a masterpiece.
Strolling Through the Genji Monogatari Museum
After we marveled at Byodoin, we headed over to the Genji Monogatari Museum, dedicated to Japan’s oldest novel, “The Tale of Genji.” Now, I wasn’t sure what to expect here; I mean, how exciting can a museum about a book be? But trust me, this place was a pleasant surprise! The exhibitions were so well laid out, and they showcased beautiful art and artifacts that brought the story to life. My grandmother, who is quite the literature buff, was in her element, explaining the characters and plot points to me while I feigned understanding (I kid!).
What really got me was how they incorporated technology into the exhibits—there were interactive displays that made the story feel almost alive. We even got to experience a virtual reality segment where we could step into the scenes of the novel. It felt surreal to “walk” through the Heian period, and I must say, it really deepened my appreciation for Japan’s literary history.
Lunch and Matcha Delights
Next up was lunch! We were starving after our explorations, and Uji is famous for its matcha, so we knew we had to try some local cuisine. We stumbled upon a quaint little restaurant called “Kagizen Yoshifusa,” and let me tell you, the matcha soba was out of this world! My grandmother went for the yudofu (tofu hot pot) because she’s a tofu lover—seriously, she could eat tofu every day and still be happy. I opted for a matcha parfait, which was like a dreamy explosion of flavors. It had matcha ice cream, sweet red beans, and mochi—wow, if heaven had a flavor, this would be it!
Over lunch, we chatted about everything under the sun. I love these moments spent with her—she has a way of making the mundane feel magical. We talked about our hopes for the future, her childhood stories, and how much she loves exploring new places, even at her age. I could see the sparkle in her eyes as we enjoyed our meal together. It was, without a doubt, one of those perfect dining experiences that I’ll cherish forever.
Choosing Our Final Stop—A Hidden Gem
Now, as we wrapped up our meal, we had to decide on one more spot to visit in Uji. After a bit of back-and-forth and some deliberation, we settled on the Ujigami Shrine. I had heard about it, but to be honest, I didn’t know much. Just a quick tip: if you’re searching for peace and quiet away from bustling tourist spots, this shrine is absolutely perfect. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site, like Byodoin, but a lot less crowded, which was a big plus for us.
When we arrived, I was taken aback by the sheer beauty of the shrine’s architecture—it had this elegant simplicity that felt calming. The grounds were surrounded by lush greenery, and the air was fresh and crisp. We took a leisurely stroll through the shrine, admiring the wooden structures and the peaceful atmosphere. I loved how it felt like we had stepped back in time, away from the noise of modern life.
We even participated in a little purification ritual at the temizuya (water basin). My grandmother was so enthusiastic about it! It was such a beautiful moment when she showed me how to wash our hands properly before entering. Little things like this bring a deeper meaning to the experience, you know? It’s a great reminder of the importance of mindfulness and respect in Japanese culture.
Reflections on Our Uji Adventure
Looking back, this trip to Uji was filled with unexpected surprises, delightful food, and, most importantly, quality time with my grandmother. We often get so caught up in the big tourist attractions that we forget to explore the hidden gems that lie off the beaten path. Uji felt like a breath of fresh air, and it left us both yearning to dive deeper into the culture and history of Japan.
As we made our way back to the train station, we chatted about what we’d experienced that day. My grandmother reminisced about her own adventures in Japan when she was younger, and I couldn’t help but think how lucky I was to create these memories with her. Traveling is not just about the sights; it’s about the stories, connections, and moments we share with our loved ones.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Kyoto and seeking something a little less touristy, I wholeheartedly recommend Uji City. You won’t just discover breathtaking temples and delicious matcha—you’ll uncover a slice of Japan that feels intimate and authentic. Plus, who doesn’t love a good matcha parfait after a day of exploration? Until next time, happy travels!
