Uji Shrine, dedicated to Uji no Wakira tsuko no Mikoto, the prince of Emperor Ojin, is a component asset of the World Heritage site, "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto". Its location across the Uji River from Byodo-in Temple's Phoenix Hall offers breathtaking scenery and makes it a perfect spot to enjoy both history and nature.
The shrine's founding dates back to the early Heian period, and it was formerly known as "Rikyu-sha" along with Uji-kami Shrine. Uji-kami Shrine was considered the main shrine (Honmiya), while Uji Shrine was the subsidiary shrine (Wakamiya), with both being worshipped as one entity. The present Uji Shrine was rebuilt in the early Kamakura period, and its main hall is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan.
The grounds feature the main hall enshrining Uji no Wakira tsuko no Mikoto, along with a statue of a rabbit looking back and a temizuya (a ritual hand-washing pavilion). The atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil. The statue of the looking-back rabbit refers to the legend that Uji no Wakira tsuko no Mikoto was guided by a rabbit when he was lost on his way to Uji. The temizuya features "Kihara-sui," one of Uji's seven famous waters, and visitors can cleanse their hands with this spring water before worship.
Uji Shrine is a peaceful and tranquil shrine nestled in nature and rich in history. With numerous nearby attractions, including Byodo-in Temple's Phoenix Hall and Uji-kami Shrine, it's a perfect location for a leisurely stroll.
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