Kyoto: Journey to Manpuku-ji, Uji's Best-Kept Secret

Discover Manpuku-ji, a serene Zen temple in the heart of Uji, just a short ride from Kyoto. While Uji is best known for its matcha tea and the famed Byodoin Temple, few visitors realize that just minutes away stands this hidden gem—a temple unlike any other in Japan.

Step through the gates of Manpuku-ji, and you're immediately transported—not just in space, but in time and culture. Founded in 1661 by the Chinese monk Ingen Ryuki, Manpuku-ji is the head temple of the Obaku school of Zen Buddhism. Ingen brought with him not only a new style of Zen, but a wave of Chinese influence that still permeates the temple's architecture, layout, and spiritual atmosphere.

What makes Manpuku-ji so unique is its unmistakably Chinese Ming dynasty style—a rarity in Japan. From its symmetrical temple grounds and vividly colored vermilion gates to its curved rooftops and lattice windows, everything feels just a little different… and deeply intriguing. It's a chance to experience a slice of Chinese-Japanese fusion from the Edo period, in a quiet and contemplative setting that most tourists overlook.

Stroll through the spacious courtyards and admire the central Tenno-den Hall, where a striking statue of Shakyamuni Buddha is flanked by 18 expressive arhats. Listen to the soft rustling of the trees, the chanting of monks echoing faintly in the distance, and the crunch of gravel underfoot. This isn't just a visit—it's a mood, a moment, a breath of stillness.

Manpuku-ji is easily accessible—just a few minutes' walk from Obaku Station—and yet it feels like a world apart. If you're already in Uji for tea, culture, or riverside walks, don't miss this quiet masterpiece. For those craving an authentic, peaceful, and deeply historical experience in Japan, Manpuku-ji is the temple you didn't know you were looking for.