Manpuku-ji Uji Kyoto
Manpuku-ji, Uji's Obaku Zen temple, captivates with its unique Chinese-inspired architecture and tranquil gardens, offering a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded
Manpuku-ji Uji Kyoto
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Manpuku-ji, Uji's Obaku Zen temple, captivates with its unique Chinese-inspired architecture and tranquil gardens, offering a serene escape.
"Beautiful and huge temple unlike any other we've seen thus far in Japan, with such a rich and fascinating history."
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Visit in the morning to have the temple grounds almost to yourself for a truly peaceful experience.
🍵 Savor Uji's Matcha
Explore local tea shops for authentic matcha treats and souvenirs; it's a Uji specialty!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ming Dynasty Architecture
Main Temple Grounds
Experience a unique Chinese aesthetic in Japan with stunning Ming dynasty-style buildings and intricate details.
Kaipan (Fish Board)
Temple Grounds
See the 'kaipan,' a fish-shaped board symbolizing dedication, used to signal daily temple activities.
Serene Gardens
Temple Grounds
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens offering a peaceful escape and a chance for quiet reflection.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Zen Atmosphere
Matcha Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Visit in the morning to have the temple grounds almost to yourself for a truly peaceful experience.
🍵 Savor Uji's Matcha
Explore local tea shops for authentic matcha treats and souvenirs; it's a Uji specialty!
📸 Capture Unique Architecture
The temple's Chinese-inspired design is a photographer's dream; allow ample time for photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The spacious and well-maintained grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll and quiet contemplation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Serenity
Visit in the morning to have the temple grounds almost to yourself for a truly peaceful experience.
🍵 Savor Uji's Matcha
Explore local tea shops for authentic matcha treats and souvenirs; it's a Uji specialty!
📸 Capture Unique Architecture
The temple's Chinese-inspired design is a photographer's dream; allow ample time for photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The spacious and well-maintained grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll and quiet contemplation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Manpuku-ji for its unique Chinese-influenced architecture and serene, spacious grounds, offering an authentic local experience away from overtourism. The peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for quiet reflection, and the well-maintained gardens are a highlight. Some note limited food options on-site.
"Saw an ad for a lantern festival at Uji Station and decided to make a stop here. An amazing experience from start to end as you will be able to enjoy the various types of lanterns throughout the temple. The feeling of exploring the temple at night with the lanterns lighting the way is truly magical and unforgetable. The temple itself is impressive in its architecture which you can take your time to explore since it is not a tourist hotspot.
Overall, highly recommend pitstop as you will be getting a more authentic local experience without the overtourism!"
Hun Sern Tan
"We visited Manpuku-ji early in the morning, and it felt as if we had the entire temple to ourselves. The grounds are spacious and beautifully maintained, and the quiet atmosphere made it incredibly peaceful and relaxing to wander around. It was a serene start to the day and a lovely place to slow down and take in the surroundings."
Laloena Aacher
"Beautiful and huge temple unlike any other we've seen thus far in Japan, with such a rich and fascinating history. Extremely unique and the gardens are very well maintained. The staff was very kind! Definitely one of my favorite visits yet."
Samson Goodrich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manpuku-ji is easily accessible from Kyoto. Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Uji Station (approx. 20-30 minutes), then it's a short walk. Alternatively, the Keihan Uji Line also serves the area.
Yes, there is a parking lot available. The first 90 minutes are free, with a fee applied thereafter.
Absolutely! Manpuku-ji is a perfect addition to a day trip to Uji from Kyoto, often combined with other local attractions like Byodo-in Temple.
Most attractions in Uji, including Manpuku-ji and Byodo-in, are within walking distance of each other or easily reachable by local buses.
Yes, Manpuku-ji is well-served by public transport. JR Uji Station and Keihan Uji Station are both within walking distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Manpuku-ji is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for any seasonal changes or special events.
Admission fees are generally reasonable, allowing access to the temple grounds and buildings. Specific prices can be found on their official website or at the entrance.
Advance booking is usually not required for general entry to Manpuku-ji. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Manpuku-ji occasionally hosts events, including lantern festivals at night, which offer a unique and magical experience.
Admission typically grants access to the main temple buildings, gardens, and specific exhibition areas within the temple complex.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most outdoor areas and some interior spaces, but always look for signage indicating restricted areas.
The unique Chinese-style architecture, the serene gardens, and the 'kaipan' (fish board) are popular subjects for photographers.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at temples and historical sites to preserve the atmosphere and prevent disturbance. Please check local regulations.
The main hall and the surrounding courtyards offer excellent opportunities to capture the temple's distinctive architectural style.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting on the buildings.
🍽️ 🍵 Food & Dining
Food supply within the temple grounds is limited. It's recommended to explore the nearby Uji town for a wider variety of dining options.
Uji is famous for its green tea, so expect many cafes and restaurants offering matcha-flavored dishes, sweets, and traditional Japanese cuisine.
While Manpuku-ji is a Zen temple, experiencing a traditional tea ceremony is more commonly found in dedicated tea houses in Uji town.
Look for matcha ice cream, parfaits, cakes, and traditional matcha tea. Nakamura Tokichi and Tsuen Tea are popular choices.
Many restaurants in Uji offer traditional Japanese dishes that can be adapted for vegetarians or vegans, but it's best to inquire directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the temple itself is peaceful, consider balancing the visit with more interactive activities in Uji town. The Tale of Genji Museum or simply enjoying matcha ice cream can be big hits with younger visitors. Pack snacks and drinks, as food options directly within the temple are limited.
📸 Photographers
+1For the best light, aim for early mornings to avoid crowds and capture soft, diffused light, or visit in the late afternoon for the warm glow of the golden hour. The temple's spaciousness allows for unhurried composition and a chance to find unique angles.
🍵 Tea Enthusiasts
After visiting Manpuku-ji, dedicate time to exploring Uji's famous tea shops like Nakamura Tokichi or Tsuen Tea. Sample authentic matcha, learn about its cultivation, and perhaps even participate in a tea ceremony. Many visitors find these tea experiences to be a highlight of their Uji trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Obaku Zen School: A Unique Buddhist Tradition
The temple's design is a direct reflection of Ingen's vision, featuring Ming dynasty-style architecture that sets it apart from most Japanese temples. This includes the layout, roof tiles, and intricate carved details, giving the entire complex a distinctly Chinese feel. Visitors often remark on the 'Chinese air' that permeates the temple grounds, creating a unique atmosphere.
This distinctiveness extends to practices and symbolism. For instance, the 'kaipan' (fish board), a fish-shaped board struck to alert monks to mealtimes and lectures, is a symbol of hard training and dedication, as fish do not close their eyes. The ball in the fish's mouth represents 'bonnō' (bad mental states) that monks strive to overcome.
Uji: The Heart of Japanese Matcha
Beyond Manpuku-ji, Uji offers numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of matcha. You can visit historic tea shops that have been operating for centuries, such as Tsuen Tea, which is considered the oldest tea shop in Japan. These establishments offer not only a chance to purchase high-quality matcha powder but also to sample various matcha-flavored treats and beverages.
Many creators highlight the struggle to find matcha during shortages, emphasizing the importance of Uji as a source. Exploring shops like Marukyu Koyamaen and Hori Shichimin is a must for matcha enthusiasts. Even if you're not buying, enjoying a matcha soft serve or a traditional bowl of whisked matcha is a quintessential Uji experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit