Ujigami Shrine

Ujigami Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary in Uji featuring three inner structures built side by side, with the central one being larger than the others. These wooden buildings are arranged in close proximity to form the main shrine complex.

The shrine was built around 1060 and is Japan's oldest standing shrine building, confirmed through wood analysis studies. This medieval wooden structure has survived for nearly one thousand years without major reconstruction.

Visitors come to pay respects to the deities honored here and often leave small offerings as a form of gratitude and prayer.

The shrine is located along the north side of the Uji River within a ten-minute walk from Keihan Uji Station. The walk from JR Uji Station takes about fifteen minutes, making the site accessible from either train station.

Inside the shrine grounds flows a natural spring called Kiriharasui that still supplies fresh water for traditional purification rituals performed with wooden ladles. This water source remains an active part of daily sacred practices.

Location: Uji

Part of: Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto

Address: 京都府宇治市宇治山田59

Website: https://ujikamijinja.amebaownd.com

GPS coordinates: 34.89207,135.81144

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:59