Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen
A serene onsen retreat offering diverse mineral baths, a unique salt sauna, and a naturalistic outdoor pool, perfect for relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shops open
Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shops open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene onsen retreat offering diverse mineral baths, a unique salt sauna, and a naturalistic outdoor pool, perfect for relaxation.
"Onsen Uji felt like a true local gem, offering a relaxing and enjoyable experience."
🎯 Plan Your Matcha Stops
Research matcha shops beforehand; some close on weekends.
♨️ Enjoy the Onsen Variety
Try the salt sauna and outdoor baths for a unique experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Matcha Delights
Various tea houses
Savor world-class matcha, from traditional whisked tea to innovative ice creams and sweets.
Diverse Onsen Baths
Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen
Experience a variety of mineral baths, saunas, and a unique salt scrub steam room.
Riverside Strolls
Uji River
Enjoy scenic walks along the Uji River, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Uji's Charm
Embrace the Onsen Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Your Matcha Stops
Research matcha shops beforehand; some close on weekends. +1
♨️ Enjoy the Onsen Variety
Try the salt sauna and outdoor baths for a unique experience.
🚶♀️ Explore by Foot
Uji is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes.
💰 Cash for Some Shops
Some traditional tea shops are cash-only.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Your Matcha Stops
Research matcha shops beforehand; some close on weekends. +1
♨️ Enjoy the Onsen Variety
Try the salt sauna and outdoor baths for a unique experience.
🚶♀️ Explore by Foot
Uji is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes.
💰 Cash for Some Shops
Some traditional tea shops are cash-only.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen is a highly recommended local gem, praised for its diverse baths, naturalistic outdoor pool, and unique salt sauna. Visitors appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and the option for massages and dining. While it's a local spot, it's welcoming to foreigners, offering an authentic onsen experience.
"I have never been to a "super" sento. Uji genji exceeded my expectations. The front desk was helpful, and spoke some English. I enjoyed all the baths and the reading area.
They also had a lobby area with seating. It would be nice if there were more comfy chairs, but I guess the focus is on the bath area anyway. I did also notice that while people were kind, this sento did not have a "chatty" atmosphere compared to smaller public baths. This can be good or bad depending on how outgoing you are!
I did not try the restaurant but it looked like it had a lot of yummy options. The chilled beer was nice. If I am in the area, I will definitely go here again."
Laura Mayfield
"Lovely onsen close to Uji. We came here with no expectations and were really blown away! They have a great variety of different pools with varying temperatures, minerals, both indoor and outdoor. The salt sauna was really unique. The outdoor pool was really naturalistic! & the individual tubs were unique too. The onsen ended with a wonderful dinner. We were amazed and will definitely be back!"
Y
"It was one if the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences of mine. I was so tired and stressful but after that enjoying the natural hot spring, I was calm and happy. I used their massage facilities too, super nice and considerate people."
Shahrzad Haghir
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uji is easily accessible from Kyoto by train, typically taking around 40 minutes. The JR Nara Line is a common and convenient option.
While Uji is beautiful, visiting at 5 PM might mean some shops are closed, especially on weekends. It's best to arrive earlier for the full experience.
Yes, Uji is a feasible day trip from Osaka, offering a pleasant stop on your way back to the city.
Uji is a compact town best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander through its charming streets and along the river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen requires a ticket, which can be purchased at the front desk.
Opening hours vary by shop. It's advisable to check individual shop hours, as some, like Marukyu Koyamaen and Horii Shichimeien, may be closed on weekends.
There is no general entrance fee for Uji town. You can freely explore its streets, riverbanks, and many of its attractions.
Yes, Genji-no-Yu offers various pampering upgrades, including massages, and has a restaurant with food and drinks available.
🍽️ 🍵 Matcha & Dining
Uji is famous for its matcha. Highly recommended spots include Marukyu Koyamaen, Yamamasa Koyamaen, Horii Shichimeien, Nakamura Tokichi, and Tsujiri Main Store. +1
Don't miss matcha ice cream, parfaits, and traditional whisked matcha. Itoh Kyuemon is known for its matcha ice cream bars.
Many cafes and restaurants in Uji offer matcha-infused dishes and drinks. Some spots like Wa-Mu-Cha are noted for lunch options.
Absolutely! Uji is the perfect place to buy high-quality matcha powder. Shops like Marukyu Koyamaen and Horii Shichimeien offer a wide selection.
Yes, Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen has a restaurant that looked like it had many yummy options, and they also serve chilled beer.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
The Uji River, the iconic Byodo-In Temple (featured on the 10 yen coin), and the charming streets lined with tea shops are all highly photogenic.
Byodo-In Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see in Uji, famous for its Phoenix Hall.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main attractions like Byodo-In Temple are family-friendly, consider the timing of your visit. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid peak crowds. For a truly unique experience, Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen offers a variety of baths that can be enjoyed by families, though it's important to note the onsen's generally calm and local atmosphere.
🍵 Matcha Enthusiasts
Consider participating in a matcha grinding experience for a hands-on understanding of its production. Remember to carry cash, as some traditional shops are cash-only. Planning your itinerary to hit multiple tea shops will allow you to compare and savor the diverse flavors Uji has to offer.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Beyond the onsen, a leisurely walk along the Uji River offers a serene escape. The town's generally calm atmosphere, especially during weekdays, contributes to a relaxing experience. Enjoying a quiet cup of traditional matcha at a less crowded tea house can also be a peaceful interlude.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Matcha in Uji
Beyond traditional tea, Uji's matcha culture extends to a delightful array of sweets and beverages. You'll find matcha ice cream, parfaits, cakes, and even matcha-flavored noodles. Shops like Itoh Kyuemon are famous for their innovative matcha treats, while Nakamura Tokichi and Tsujiri Main Store offer classic matcha experiences. For a more immersive experience, consider a matcha grinding session at places like Kanbayashi Sannyu.
When exploring Uji's tea scene, remember that some traditional shops may be cash-only, so it's wise to carry some yen. Planning your route to visit multiple tea houses can be rewarding, allowing you to compare flavors and discover your personal favorites.
Relaxation at Genji-no-Yu Uji Onsen
Beyond the baths, the onsen provides additional amenities for ultimate relaxation. Guests can enjoy pampering upgrades such as massages, and there's a reading area and a lobby with seating. The on-site restaurant offers a selection of dishes, and chilled beer is available, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
While the onsen is a local gem, it maintains a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, even for foreign visitors who might be the only tourists present. It's a place where locals gather to socialize and rejuvenate, offering an authentic glimpse into Japanese onsen culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit