Uji is best known as the place where tea was first cultivated in Japan in the Muromachi era (1338–1573). High-quality green tea is still grown on the fertile alluvial fan of the Uji River, and there is cormorant fishing in the river.

What is Uji known for?

Uji is also famous for its green tea. While Kozanji Temple in Kyoto is believed to be the original site of tea cultivation in Japan, Uji's tea became better known for its superior quality in the 1100s.

Why is Uji Matcha famous?

Shonin originally began cultivating tea in Toganoo, but searched for better growing environs and found Uji. News of Uji's legendary tea spread across Japan, and Uji's fame as the best tea-growing region was set in history. Uji Matcha, in particular, became known as the pearl of Japanese green tea.