All Reviews of Uji Bridge (Kyoto)

After leaving the ticket gates at Keihan Uji Station, the first thing that comes into view is Uji's most iconic landmark—Uji Bridge. Spanning the Uji River, Uji Bridge is considered one of Japan's three ancient bridges, along with Seta no Karahashi Bridge and Yamazaki Bridge. The current bridge was rebuilt in 1996, retaining a traditional style with cypress railings and bronze decorations. Walking across it, the historic atmosphere blends with the river scenery, really giving you the feeling that you've arrived in Uji!

Near the center of the bridge, slightly toward the west side, a small section projects upstream. Known as San-no-ma, it is said to be the former site of a shrine dedicated to Hashihime, the guardian deity of Uji Bridge, adding a mythical quality to the bridge. Standing on the bridge and watching the Uji River flow gently by, with greenery along both banks and mountains in the distance, it's no wonder Uji always has such a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.

Standing on the bridge and watching the Uji River flow slowly by, with the mountains and riverbank scenery on both sides, feels really pleasant. Compared with the bustling streets of central Kyoto, this area has a more leisurely and peaceful atmosphere. Strolling slowly across the bridge with the river breeze blowing, I felt completely relaxed.

Uji Bridge is also an important route to Byodoin Temple and Uji Shrine. After crossing the bridge, you can browse matcha shops and old streets along the way, which really gives you a taste of Uji.

From the station, you can see one of Japan's famous ancient bridges, Uji Bridge, spanning the wide, clear Uji River. The elegant old bridge seems to transport you back a thousand years to the Heian period.

Visiting in early spring, both banks of the Uji River are bursting with signs of the season. Snow-white Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms and deep pink weeping cherry blossoms complement each other, gently decorating the city of Uji like a painting. A light breeze sends dreamy petals fluttering through the air, while the water shimmers beautifully enough to take your breath away.

Besides Uji Bridge, a walk along the river also takes you past two other bridges connecting to Nakanoshima in Uji Park. I highly recommend setting aside an afternoon, avoiding a rushed photo-stop pace, and wandering among the three bridges. Enjoy the breeze and a quiet stroll amid the fragrance of tea and the sound of water, fully immersing yourself in this historic riverside city rich in culture and romantic cherry blossom scenery.

As soon as you exit Uji Station, you can see Uji Bridge spanning the Uji River. As one of Uji's most iconic sights, strolling along the riverbank in the summer breeze is especially relaxing.

When I visited Uji in the summer, I unexpectedly came across the summer-only “Nighttime Cormorant Fishing Sightseeing Boat” on my way back. Cormorant fishing is a traditional Japanese fishing technique in which a fisherman steers a small boat and uses cormorants to catch fish under the glow of lights in the darkness. Uji's nighttime cormorant fishing is usually held from July to September. Riding a boat along the Uji River while watching this traditional skill is a very unique experience.

There were so many people, it was just a sea of crowds. It was hard to really enjoy or appreciate the place.

As soon as you step out of Keihan Uji Station, you can see it right away. The views from Uji Bridge are truly moving and peaceful.