All Reviews of Ujigami Shrine

After visiting Uji Shrine, follow the signs into a quiet residential alley and head uphill to reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ujigami Shrine, hidden deep among the trees.

This ancient shrine stands on the east bank of the Uji River. Unlike the bustling Byodoin Temple, there are hardly any noisy tour groups here, and most visitors are local Japanese people who come to worship devoutly. Surrounded by towering old trees, the air carries the fresh scent of earth and greenery. The entire shrine grounds feel solemn and ethereal, with a sacredness that takes your breath away. Away from the crowds, this secluded place lets you experience pure faith and the depth of passing time. It is definitely worth a special visit.

Located along the Uji River, Ujigami Shrine is one of the oldest surviving shrine buildings and sits across the river from Byodoin Temple. During the Heian period, it served as Byodoin Temple's guardian shrine. Its National Treasure main hall and worship hall are simple, tranquil, and historic. Compared with Byodoin Temple, there are fewer visitors here, making it easier to experience Uji's quiet, elegant side. There are also cute rabbit-shaped omikuji fortunes on the grounds that you can draw and take home as a souvenir.

Compared with the lively area around Byodo-in nearby, Ujigami Shrine is just across the bridge, but the whole atmosphere feels completely different.

It feels like a corner of the forest forgotten by time, giving off a quiet, ancient spiritual vibe. Even though it’s not large, it has a unique historical and cultural charm of its own.

This place is surrounded by trees, and some of the buildings are covered in moss. It feels really spiritual and blends beautifully with nature. It's not flashy at all, but somehow it gives off a calming, peaceful vibe. Highly recommend visiting.