Byodoin Omotesando Street

Byodoin Omotesando is the road from Uji Station to Byodoin Temple. Uji is historically and still is famous for its tea. Both sides of the street are lined with stores selling tea and tea-based sweets. If you like matcha in particular, you can take your time and enjoy it.

Byodoin Omotesando: A Charming Tea-Scented Street in Uji

Nestled in the heart of Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, Byodoin Omotesando is a picturesque street that leads to the famous Byodoin Temple. This charming thoroughfare offers visitors a delightful journey through Japan’s rich tea culture and traditional architecture.

As you stroll down the cobblestone path, the air is filled with the enticing aroma of freshly roasted tea leaves. The street is lined with numerous tea shops, many of which have been in business for generations. These establishments showcase a wide variety of teas, from the renowned Uji matcha to roasted hojicha and classic sencha.

Tasting teas

One of the highlights of Byodoin Omotesando is the opportunity to sample some of the world’s finest teas. Many shops offer tea tastings, allowing visitors to experience the subtle flavors and aromas of different tea varieties. For those with a sweet tooth, matcha-flavored ice cream and other green tea-infused desserts are popular treats.

The street’s ambiance is enhanced by the traditional architecture of the tea houses and shops. Many buildings feature wooden facades, indigo noren curtains, and old-fashioned barrels, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Tsuen tea house is a must. Established in 1160, it claims to be the oldest tea shop in Japan, if not the world. Founded by a retired samurai, this tea house has been serving weary travelers for centuries.

As you reach the end of Byodoin Omotesando, you’ll find yourself at the entrance of the magnificent Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Phoenix Hall.

Byodoin Omotesando offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, from savoring world-class teas to admiring traditional architecture. It’s an essential stop for anyone visiting Uji, providing a taste of Japan’s rich tea heritage and a glimpse into its storied past.

Byodoin Omotesando Shotenkai (Association of Shops) website

Nearby spots

Uji Byodoin Temple is a place not to be missed. It is no exaggeration to say that it is the one and only building that conveys the beauty of the Heian period.

Byodoin Temple (平等院)