[Kyoto] Uji's Romance: Byodo-in, Tea & the Legacy of Genji's Timeless Tales

• Explore the cultural heart of southern Kyoto on a thoughtfully curated full-day tour through historic Uji.
• ,Visit iconic landmarks including the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple and Ujigami Shrine, while learning their rich backstories.
• ,Walk across the scenic Uji Bridge and along the serene riverfront, a setting steeped in centuries of poetry and tradition.
• ,Discover the story of Japan’s most famous novel at the Tale of Genji Museum, set in the city that inspired it.
• ,Learn about Uji’s world-renowned tea culture at a local tea museum, and take part in a hands-on matcha-making experience guided by tea experts.
• ,Gain deep insights into the history, art, and spiritual traditions of Uji with engaging, easy-to-understand commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

Discover the charm of Uji, a riverside town just outside Kyoto, known as the birthplace of Japanese green tea. This tour begins with a visit to the stunning Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring the temple grounds, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. We’ll then stroll across the Uji Bridge, taking in views of the river and surrounding tea fields. Next, we visit a hands-on tea museum to deepen our understanding of Uji’s centuries-old tea culture. From there, we walk to Ujigami Shrine, Japan’s oldest existing Shinto shrine, before participating in an authentic matcha tea-making experience. e step into the world of classical literature at the Tale of Genji Museum, where interactive exhibits bring Japan’s first novel to life.