投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Jizozen-in Temple

Standing on a hill and to the south of Tamatsuoka Shrine, Jizozen-in Temple offers a sweeping view over the plains of the town of Ide. The glorious clouds of weeping cherry blossoms that bloom here are designated a natural monument by Kyoto Prefecture, and they are also relations of the weeping cherry trees in Maruyama Park, Kyoto City. The cherry trees are reputed to be some 280 years old.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Tsuen-chaya Teahouse

Uji-bashi Bridge has been a vital point in Uji throughout its long history. This long-established teahouse, located on the east bank of the river, was built in 1160. It has served as not only a teahouse, but also a guardian of the bridge, wishing for the safety of travelers passing by. It is the oldest existing teahouse in Japan.
The current building was constructed in 1672, showcasing the architectural style of machiya (traditional townhouses) in the Edo Period (around 1603-1868). It is registered as a part of the Japan Heritage (Japanese Tea: Eight Centuries of Tradition).
Inside the teahouse, you can find chatsubo (traditional tea jars) made centuries ago, the wooden statue of the first-generation Tsuen created and presented by Ikkyu Sojun enshrined within, and a wooden bucket that is said to have been made by Sen no Rikyu and used by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to draw the clear water of the Uji River. Renowned historical figures, including Ashikaga Yoshimasa, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, have visited this teahouse.
At the storefront, you can purchase matcha (powdered green tea), sencha (one of the most common Japanese teas), hojicha (roasted tea), and more. Inside, you can enjoy matcha sweets like parfaits and zenzai (dessert soup made with red beans) made with plenty of freshly ground matcha, a combo of matcha and cha-dango (skewered rice dumplings made with matcha), cha-soba (buckwheat noodles made with matcha) and so on, while gazing out at the Uji-bashi Bridge and Uji River.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Keihanna Commemorative Park

Keihanna Commemorative Park is 24.1 hectares in size, and commemorates the establishment of Keihanna Science City (Kansai Culture and Science Research City) in 1995. The park includes both freely accessible and paid areas. The free areas include the 'Hiroba' a wide open plaza, which has cascading grounds shaped like rice-paddy terraces with large lawns for playing freely, and a childrens' playground. Also free of charge is the 'Tani-ai' valley, made to look like a typical Japanese landscape with a small stream, bamboo grove, and plum garden. The paid area includes the Suikei-en, a Japanese-style garden with a path that brings you around scenery including a magnificent rock cluster, cascading water ponds, colourful seasonal flora and an area to feed carp, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike. Visitors can also enjoy a panoramic view of the garden from Kangetsukyo Bridge, which is 123m long and 4m wide, and 10m above the water. Particularly spectacular is the view of autumn foliage from the Japanese maple tree valley. There, amongst the moss, approximately 80 trees line a small, delicate stream. Inside Suikei-en Garden you can also find Mebuki Forest and Nagatani Pond, which are likewise styled like traditional Japanese landscapes, perfect for a stroll to enjoy nature in all four seasons. Additionally, the park hosts a range of events, from firefly-viewing to star-gazing.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Amagase Dam

This multipurpose dam was constructed in 1964 to prevent floods, generate electricity, and supply drinking water. The majestic Amagaze Dam, standing at a height of 73 meters and a length of 254 meters, is a dome-shaped arch dam. If you're lucky, you might see the spectacular sight of the dam releasing water.
One of the dam’s charms is its location. It’s close to the city center of Uji, making it a relatively convenient stop for those sightseeing or going on a cycling trip. Downstream from the dam, there are World Heritage sites, Byodoin Temple and Ujikami Shrine.
From the dam, you can see the reservoir called Lake Houou (Lake Phoenix). Its shape resembles a bird spreading its wings, and the name represents people's hope to create a paradise on earth. You can enjoy the amazing view of the lake with the seasonal beauty of nature around it.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Joruri-ji Temple

Joruri-ji Temple, located in the "Kyoto Tea Country" region, is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu Buddhism (Nara sect) that holds 4 national treasures and 9 important cultural properties.
According to the records of the temple, the temple was opened in 1047 by Gimei Shonin and enshrines the “Yakushinyourai,” the Buddha who can cure all illness. The name of the temple is said to come from "Joruri," the realm where the Buddha lives.
The main hall of Joruri-ji is particularly long with nine Amida Buddhas enshrined inside. During the Heian period about 30 such nine-body Amida temples were built around Kyoto, but Joruri-ji is the only temple that still exists. Both the main hall and nine-body Amida Buddha are designated as national treasures.

To the east of the main hall is a garden containing a three-storied pagoda and Yakushinyourai Buddha statue arranged around a pond. The layout of the grounds is said to be in the shape of the Sandskrit letter "A," expressing paradise.

Surrounded by abundant nature, the temple has also has been designated as a special national scenic spot. You can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the year, and the road connecting Gansen-ji and Joruri-ji is called the "Stone Buddha Road," and there are many stone Buddha statues make it the perfect place for hiking.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Joyo-Shuzo

Joyo-Shuzo, located in Joyo City, is the southernmost sake brewery in Kyoto, and the only sake brewery in the Kyoto Tea Country area. It was founded in 1895. The brewery takes advantage of the region’s nature and land features, including using the pure groundwater, to create its sake.
In the International Wine Challenge 2024 (SAKE division), its Junmai-Daiginjo 40 (Yamadanishiki) “Joyo” was a gold winner, and Junmai Ginjo 55 (Yamadanishiki) “Joyo” was a silver winner.
In addition to sake, the brewery is also known for its umeshu (Japanese plum wine) made with one of Joyo’s specialties, a premium plum variety called Joshuhaku. Their umeshu are aged for over three years, and made without any additives.
Besides, the brewery buildings, which have been there since the founding of Joyo-Shuzo, exude a historical charm.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Koshoji

This Soto Zen temple was a training monastery opened in Fukakusa (Fushimi) by the Buddhist monk Dogen Zenji in 1233. It was rebuilt in Uji in 1645 by Nagai Naomasa, the lord of Yodo Castle at that time. Interestingly, the temple was built using the remains of Fushimi Castle.
In addition to the seven-hall complex, the Kotosaka slope is wonderful as well. It’s the quaint approach from the stone gate to the Sanmon gate, where many visitors enjoy the tunnel of fall foliage or summer greenery. Other highlights include the Sanmon gate built in Ryugu-zukuri (architectural style reminiscent of Dragon Palace Castle that appears in Japanese folklore); the corridor of Uguisu-bari (squeaking hallway floor making a sound like the chirp of a nightingale, which is said to have been made to alert those within earshot to the danger of an intruder) and the Chitenjo (bloody ceiling); the Tenarai Kannon bodhisattva that is believed to have been enshrined at a historical site of the classic literature, The Tale of Genji.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Iwashimizu Hachimangu

Iwashimizu Hachimangu is one of the three major Hachimangu shrines. This majestic shrine, with a nearly 1,200-year history, is considered Japan's second most important shrine after Ise Jingu (Ise Shrine). The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman Okami, believed to be ancestors of the emperors of Japan. Since ancient times, Hachiman Okami have been deeply revered as guardian deities of Kyoto and the nation in this shrine. This profound reverence has been passed down through generations of emperors as well.
It was also a sacred place of worship for some of the most famous samurai warriors in history. The Minamoto clan (Genji), who established the Kamakura shogunate (1185-1333), highly respected Hachiman Okami as their tutelary deities. Even after the fall of the Minamoto clan, Iwashimizu Hachimangu has remained one of Japan's most important shrines to this day.
Moreover, it has National Treasures including the main building of the complex, which is adorned with intricate, colorful carvings. In its long history, the building complex was renovated by Oda Nobunaga, and the cloisters were built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Hideyori. The current complex was rebuilt by Tokugawa Iemitsu and completed in 1634. It is the oldest and one of the largest surviving Hachiman-zukuri (a traditional Japanese architectural style seen at Hachimangu shrines) in Japan.
The shrine holds a special place in Japanese history, and is also a visually stunning place. It offers amazing views of cherry blossoms in spring, and a beautiful contrast of fall foliage and evergreen trees in fall.
At the entrance of the shrine at the foot of the mountain, there is a 9-meter-tall stone gate called Ichi-no-Torii. On the upper part of it, you'll find a tablet with kanji (a Chinese character) of “hachi (八)”, in “Hachimangu (八幡宮)”, written in the shape of two pigeons. Actually, pigeons are considered as messengers of the deities, Hachiman Okami. Pigeons can be found hidden as motifs throughout the shrine. You can even find adorable pigeon-shaped omikuji (small items containing fortune-telling slips) and omamori (Japanese amulets).

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Marukyu Koyamaen (Head Office Plant / Head Office)

Kyujiro Koyama began cultivating tea here in the Genroku era (1688-1704). After four generations, they began selling tea, and by the eighth generation, they expanded their market nationwide. Later, their tea became beloved worldwide. Even now, 300 years after its establishment, they continue to produce tea with a focus on flavor and safety, with their corporate motto "Making Teas with Quality as the Highest Priority." Everything from cultivation to production is done in-house, and in order to continually improve the quality of their teas, they're also very involved in entering tea competitions. As a result, they have repeatedly received the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award. This is a testament to their outstanding work.
Marukyu Koyamaen's wide lineup includes matcha (powdered green tea), sencha (one of the most commonly drunk Japanese teas), and gyokuro (premium green tea), as well as matcha-flavored sweets, beverages, and more.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Kasagi Campground

Kasagi Campground is a popular camping spot along the Kizu River in southern Kyoto. Spanning approximately 30,000 square meters, it offers a spacious and relaxing environment. It's conveniently located, making it easily accessible from Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and so on. You can drive your car directly into the campground. The prices are affordable, and reservations are not required. It's an excellent spot for casual camping, getting away from the city.
The campground provides basic amenities such as kitchen sinks, Western-style toilets (please bring your own toilet paper), and a garbage disposal area. To take a shower, you can visit Kasagi Barbecue Company M5 (300 yen per 5 min.) near the campground entrance.
Enjoy Barbecue, camping, fishing and more, while viewing the beautiful river scenery. The clear night sky is perfect for stargazing, too. In the spring, cherry blossoms are also wonderful. You can spend a relaxing time under the cherry trees.
Beyond camping, the surrounding area offers opportunities for rock climbing, hiking and exploring Mount Kasagi. On the mountaintop, there is Kasagidera Temple that is famous especially for its enormous Magaibutsu (Buddhist figures carved into boulders). The temple is impressive, and the momiji (Japanese maple leaves) are beautiful especially in the fall. Right by the temple, there is Matsumototei where you can savor pheasant dishes (reservation required), too. Moreover, you might see a sea of clouds from the mountain in the cold season, if you’re lucky.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Eshin-in Temple

It is said that the origins of Eshin-in Temple can be traced back to Ryuzen-ji Temple, an ancient temple founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai).
In 1005, it was rebuilt by a Buddhist monk called Genshin (Eshin Sozu). He is renowned as the compiler of Ojoyoshu (The Essentials of Rebirth in the Pure Land). Also, he is said to have been the model for the monk in The Tale of Genji, which is a very famous, long novel written in the Heian period (794-1185).
This temple is known as “The Flower Temple,” too. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a variety of flowers that soothe the heart and bring about a peaceful mind. Immerse yourself in the beauty and the temple’s rich history.

投稿タイプ：sightseeing

Aodani-Bairin Plum Grove

This ume (Japanese plum) grove, sprawling across the gentle hill along the Aodani River, has been a renowned plum blossom viewing spot since olden times. It’s even seen in poetry written by Emperor Godaigo’s son in the 14th century, which tells us that the grove has a very long history.
Covering approximately 20 hectares with many plum trees, it boasts the highest plum fruit production in Kyoto Prefecture.
The plum varieties grown in this grove include Joshuhaku, whose fruit is known as the local specialty of Joyo City. People enjoy the large, thick-fleshed and fragrant fruit as umeboshi (pickled ume fruit that is very sour and salty, often enjoyed with rice), jams, sweets, alcoholic beverages, and more.
This area is rich in nature and has a warm, cozy atmosphere. Near the grove, there is Naka Tenman Shrine, too. You can enjoy leisurely strolls around here.
Every year around late February to mid-March, there is the Plum Blossom Festival around the ume grove, celebrating the blooming of the flowers and the arrival of spring. In this season, you can find pretty white and pink blossoms with a delicate sweet fragrance in the city.