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    After leaving JR Uji Station, I strolled through this city filled with the enchanting aroma of tea. The streets were lined with many long-established tea shops I had dreamed of visiting, such as Itoh Kyuemon and Nakamura Tokichi. Each one gave off an inviting tea fragrance that made me want to go inside and try something.

    Along Byodoin Omotesando, there were all kinds of distinctive little shops on both sides. It was lively yet filled with a strong sense of local warmth. For some reason, the relaxed atmosphere of strolling along the street felt as familiar and welcoming as the approach to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine I had visited before.

    On the way back, I unexpectedly came across a roadside takoyaki stand with a long line. Curiosity got the better of me, so I couldn't resist joining the line. In the chilly weather, biting into freshly made, piping-hot takoyaki, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made me incredibly happy. This street, filled with the aroma of tea and a strong sense of local life, is definitely an unforgettable memory from my trip to Uji that made me want to linger.

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    The entire street is filled with Uji character, with lots of matcha desserts, tea shops, and unique souvenirs on both sides. Even the air seems to carry a faint aroma of tea. As you browse the street, it's really easy to be tempted by all the different matcha treats. I wanted to try everything, from matcha ice cream to matcha desserts!

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    Before visiting Byodoin Temple, you'll pass through a shopping street full of Kyoto charm. Both sides are lined with many long-established matcha shops, and the faint aroma of tea in the air reminds travelers that they've arrived in Uji. Besides enjoying rich matcha, some shops also offer elegant matcha and wagashi sets where you can experience the pleasure of the tea ceremony yourself.

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    Both sides of the approach to Byodoin are lined with many long-established matcha shops with a lot of history. If you visit closer to the evening, after the crowds have thinned out, you can better appreciate the street’s original quiet charm.

    On the day of my visit, I chose a shop near the Uji River. Sitting in its elegant second-floor seating area, I enjoyed matcha while taking in the view of the river. The peaceful atmosphere made me fall in love with Uji instantly.

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    If you love matcha, don’t miss the matcha dango, matcha cookies, matcha ice cream, matcha noodles, and more. There are so many famous shops to choose from.

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    The Byodoin on the 10-yen coin is beautiful.

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    I definitely recommend the matcha shops along Byodoin Omotesando!

Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa