Uji Day Trip: Byodo-in & Matcha Tasting

A half-day trip to Uji, Japan's most famous matcha-producing region: Byodo-in Temple's Phoenix Hall (the building depicted on the ¥10 coin), riverside walks along the Uji River, and matcha tastings and sweets at the town's historic tea houses.

Uji is about 15–20 minutes from Kyoto Station by JR Nara Line rapid train. Byodo-in's Phoenix Hall interior requires a separate timed ticket beyond general temple admission. Many tea houses along the main street offer matcha tasting sets without a reservation.