Ujibashi (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Ujibashi?
What makes it 86% Couple-Friendly: Couples can walk hand in hand over the scenic bridge, watch sunset on the water, then duck into tea houses within minutes, creating a low-cost, romantic outing; rain shelter is limited, so nearly ideal.
Positives:
- Historic Legacy: Dating from AD 646, the bridge connects you to Japan’s oldest surviving architecture.
- Riverside Setting: River views and green hills create a tranquil backdrop for conversations.
Challenges:
- Peak-time Crowds: Late mornings and early afternoons can be busy, limiting quiet moments.
- No Shelter: The bridge has no cover; bring an umbrella or sun protection as needed.
What is Ujibashi?
- A pure Japanese-style bridge that spans the Uji River in Kyoto’s Uji district, measuring 153 meters in length
- The oldest extant bridge in Japan, dating back to its original construction in AD 646
- A timber structure anchored at its western end by the Ujibashi Hime Shrine, dedicated to the bridge’s guardian deity
What is so special about Ujibashi for couple trip?
- Walk hand-in-hand across Japan’s oldest bridge.
- Make wishes together at Ujibashi Hime Shrine.
- Share matcha and wagashi by the river.
- Experience a torchlit cormorant fishing cruise (Jul–Sep).
Recommended visit duration: 1-1.5 hours
Why 1-1.5 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for a bridge walk, shrine visit, and a matcha break without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Ujibashi
Stroll Ujibashi Bridge:
Walk hand-in-hand across the 153 m span dating from AD 646.
Tip: Stand at the center during sunset for pink skies over the river.
Visit Ujibashi Hime Shrine:
Explore the guardian shrine at the bridge’s west end.
Tip: Toss a coin at the torii gate and share a wish for your next journey together.
Matcha Date at Tsuen-chaya:
Sip frothy matcha and seasonal wagashi on the riverside terrace.
Tip: Arrive before noon to secure river-view seating.
Evening Cormorant Fishing Cruise:
Watch torchlit fishing by trained cormorants on a 40-minute boat ride.
Tip: Book at least one week ahead for July–September tours and carry insect repellent.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ujibashi
- Beat the Crowds: Visit before 10 AM or after 4 PM to enjoy the bridge with fewer people.
- Sunset Photo Spot: Position at the bridge center at dusk for framed river and hill vistas.
- Combine with Tea Houses: Pair your walk with matcha at Tsuen-chaya or a ceremony at Taiho-an for deeper tea culture.
When is the best time to visit Ujibashi (Kyoto, Japan)?
In early April, cherry blossoms line the riverbank—ideal for a picnic. From July to September, book an evening fishing cruise for torchlit ambiance.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tea ceremony for two at Taiho-an | JPY 2,000 |
| Matcha date for two at Tsuen-chaya | JPY 1,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Ujibashi
Address: Ujibashi, Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Ujibashi (Kyoto)?
About Ujibashi
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities