Uji, The Japanese Capital Of Green Tea

Uji is considered the world capital of matcha. This little town south of Kyoto is notably reputed for its hidden plantations and the quality of its green tea, famous across the globe. It is here that the green gold entertains tourists as well as locals. The first arrivals to the town developed knowledge of the plants, traditional tea ceremonies and elaborate creation processes. The second share in their savoir-faire and developed their heritage. Throughout the small streets there are numerous vendors selling tea-related products, from matcha ice cream, to home tea-making kits.

However it’s not just the tea that makes for the detour. Uji is home to a little gem that is famous across the country, the Byōdō-in temple that you might recognise from the 10 yen coin. An active monastery, and far less busy than the Koshoji temple, it is open to the public year-round.