Sippin’ Serenity: A Matcha-Lover’s Day Out in Uji, Japan 🍵🌿

If Kyoto is Japan’s elegant old soul, then Uji is its calm, green heart—gently pulsing with culture, matcha magic, and riverside serenity. Just a short train ride from Kyoto, this peaceful town stole my heart in the dreamiest way possible. Let me take you along on my day in Uji! ✨ ⸻ Morning: Matcha, Here I Come! 🍵💚 First stop: Nakamura Tokichi Honten, a historic tea shop dating back to 1854. I had their famous matcha soba set (yes—green noodles!) and a creamy matcha parfait for dessert. So aesthetic, so tasty… I was in HEAVEN! Then I wandered into a nearby teahouse for a Japanese tea ceremony experience. The gentle motions, the soft whisking sounds, and the earthy aroma of fresh matcha… It felt like time paused just for a moment. ⏳✨ ⸻ Midday: Byōdō-in Temple Bliss 🏯🌸 A short walk brought me to Byōdō-in Temple, home of the elegant Phoenix Hall (yep, the one on the 10-yen coin!). Surrounded by a pond and lush greenery, it’s absolutely magical. I spotted koi swimming lazily and tiny blossoms floating on the water—so peaceful. 🐟🌸 Tip: The temple museum nearby showcases intricate Buddhist statues and temple history. Great for culture lovers! ⸻ Afternoon: Strolling by the Uji River 🚶♀️🌉 The Uji River is pure serenity. I strolled along its banks, crossed the iconic Uji Bridge, and even spotted a few local vendors selling handmade tea goods and wagashi (Japanese sweets). I bought a tiny matcha candle and a cute tea cup as souvenirs! 🕯️🍬 If you visit in summer, don’t miss Ukai (cormorant fishing)—a traditional fishing method that dates back over 1,000 years. Such a rare glimpse into the past! ⸻ Evening Vibes: Golden Hour Tea Fields 🌄🍃 Before heading back, I visited the Uji tea fields, where rows of vibrant green stretched into the horizon. The golden sunlight over the leaves made everything glow. I sipped iced matcha one last time, watching the sky fade to soft pink. Perfect end to a dreamy day. ✨ Why You’ll Love Uji: • Peaceful vibes without the Kyoto crowds • Perfect for matcha fans and nature lovers • Rich in history, art, and culture • Incredibly Instagrammable moments everywhere! Uji, you’ll always be my cup of tea. Until next time… itadakimasu & arigatou! 🍃🍵 #cherryblossom25