Ujigami-jinja Shrine is a remnant of the distant past, the oldest extant shrine in Japan. It is a quiet place, located across the Uji-gawa River from Byodo-in Temple (another UNESCO World-Heritage site), and next to the more elaborate Uji-jinja Shrine. A visit to Uji can comfortably include all three sites.

 

On entering the shrine grounds you will see a basin, which is fed by a famous freshwater spring. This water is used in tea ceremonies and is held to have special properties, being among the "Seven best waters of Uji."

 

The shrine is dedicated to an Imperial Prince who committed suicide to solve a dispute over succession to the throne. This prince, his brother (who later became Emperor), and their father are interred here in the main hall within a series of three inner shrine buildings covered by a common roof. The style of the shrine buildings is simple, and the structures are ancient, making Ujigami-jinja Shrine a perfect place to relax and reflect.