Uji, Kyoto is a city located between the two ancient capitals of Japan: Nara and Heian, today’s Kyoto. A must for Japanese culture lovers. But don’t wait until your next time in Japan to visit it. Never traveled thanks to Anime before? I bet you did. Anime is a great way to know about Japanese culture. And what is better this time than the local Kyoto Animation. KyoAni produced this original Anime short to show us a little of its hometown.
The Anime starts right at the Uji Shrine. This is where the rabbit playfully makes us chase it around. Just to show us part of the magic of the town. Side by side with the Ujigame Shrine. One of the oldest temples in Japan. Ujigami was built as a guardian temple for the legendary Byodo-in. You can see right after the start, reflecting on a pound. Built in 1053, the Amida or Phoenix Hall is where you can spot for the first time the Golden Phoenix Statue came to life in the Anime.
There are Tales in Uji
This is the title of the original Anime short. A reference as well to The Tale of Genji. Maybe the number one classic in Japanese literature. The Tale of Genji has its last chapters set in Uji. Particularly the Battle of Uji. It is an important part of the cultural face of the city. Sound! Euphonium is another Anime series produced by KyoAni and directed by the brilliant Yamada Naoko. The story of Sound! Euphonium is set in Uji. Kyoto. You will recognize the bridge over the Uji River in the short as well.
Uji, Kyoto is synonymous with Green Tea in Japan as well. The anime shows a blend of ancient times around the tea harvest. A special blend of a millennium of history. You can even take a glance at the Tsuen Tea Shop. It is the oldest Tea house in Japan. Founded in 1160 in Uji. And yes not only in the anime short but it is still open these days. A thing you cannot see in the anime but maybe is a must for fans is the 2024 opened Nintendo Museum. Take a look at what to do and how to get tickets here!
