Uji Shrine is a historic shrine located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture. It stands across the Uji River from Byodoin Temple. It also forms a pair with Ujikami Shrine, another World Heritage Site, and is revered as the guardian deity of the area.
The shrine enshrines Ujinowakiiratsuko, known as the god of learning, and is particularly popular among those wishing for academic success.
There is nothing special about this shrine that attracts tourists. It is a good place to stop by on your way to Byodoin Temple or Ujikami Shrine.
History
The exact founding date of Uji Shrine is not clearly recorded, but it has long been considered a central place of worship in the region. During the Heian and Kamakura periods, it was reportedly visited by many nobles and samurai. Additionally, Uji Shrine holds the status of a “Shikinaisha,” a shrine listed in ancient records, and was classified as a “Fusha” in the old shrine ranking system.
Features
Architecture and Natural Environment
Uji Shrine is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, attracting many visitors especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The precincts feature traditional structures such as the Chumon (middle gate) and Haiden (worship hall), each possessing historical value.
The main building (honden) is an Important Cultural Property. This building was constructed in the early Kamakura period.
Cultural Events
The shrine hosts traditional events such as Shichi-Go-San, attracting not only local residents but also tourists. These events contribute to the preservation and development of local culture.
Access
The shrine is easily accessible from Kyoto City, being within walking distance from Keihan Electric Railway’s Uji Station or JR Uji Station. It is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors stopping by while exploring Byo.
Nearby places
Another World Heritage site, Ujikami Jinja Shrine was founded in the late Heian period. This shrine with about 1,000 years of history boasts the oldest existing main hall (honden) in Japanese shrine architecture.
After all, Uji Byodoin Temple, another World Heritage Site, 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.
Koshoji Temple belongs to the Sodo School of Zen Buddhism. This temple is a precious place where one can experience Japanese Zen culture, architecture, garden art, and history all at once.
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[…] Uji Jinja Shrine forms a pair with Ujikami Shrine, and is revered as the guardian deity of the area. […]