File:Haiden or Kiriharaden, Uji shrine - Mar 1, 2008.jpg

English: The city of Uji is located to the south of Kyoto and is centrally located around the beautiful Uji River. Uji is graced with many temples and shrines which is indicative of the city's long history and rich culture. Uji has two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Ujigami shrine and Byodoin temple both registered in December 1994. Between the 15th and 16th centuries, this area was the location of many battles as various shoguns fought for control of Japan. When you read Japanese classics such as Nihon-Shoki and Manyoshu, you can find the Uji name, which is also the main setting for the “Uji Chapters” in The Tale of Genji, the oldest and one of the most famous love stories in the world. Since that time, Uji has enjoyed many peaceful years and has become a cultural center of Japan, growing in size and beauty each year. Uji city has many historical sights and famous cultural specialties. What is the best and most famous Japanese Tea? Uji Green Tea! Please enjoy it in the traditional tea houses and ceremonies. Experiencing the traditional green tea service is the essence of Japanese culture and history.

Uji and Green Tea Tea, introduced into Japan by the Chinese priest Eisai at the end of the 12th century, became closely associated with Japanese life, thus forming a unique culture. It was first planted in Uji at the beginning of the 13th century. Afterwards, Uji began to develop as Japan's representative tea-producting district under the patronage of the shogunate and men of influence. Today, Uji green tea represents both Uji's culture and industry. The municipal tea house, Taihoan consists of a main tea-ceremony room, another tea-ceremony room using tables and chairs plus a tea ceremony hall which is a wooden house built tastefully in Japan's traditional “Sukiya-Zukuri” style.
Uji Shrine is located next to Ujigami Shrine.

The time difference between Japan and California state, where the photographer lives, is 17 hours.