About
Murasaki Shikibu Statue
The Murasaki Shikibu Statue is located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, at the coordinates 34.8922726 latitude and 135.8058579 longitude. This statue honors Murasaki Shikibu, the esteemed author of "The Tale of Genji," a classic of Japanese literature. The statue is situated at the western end of the Uji Bridge, in an area known as "Yume no Ukihashi Square" (Dream Floating Bridge Square). (tabi-mag.jp)
Uji holds significant historical importance as the setting for the final ten chapters of "The Tale of Genji," collectively referred to as the "Uji Jujo" (Uji Ten Chapters). These chapters depict the lives and romances of the descendants of the novel's protagonist, Prince Genji, with Uji's picturesque landscapes serving as a backdrop. (tabi-mag.jp)
The statue was erected in 2003 by the Uji Lions Club to commemorate their 40th anniversary. It portrays Murasaki Shikibu seated, holding a scroll, symbolizing her literary contributions. The adjacent "Yume no Ukihashi Square" was established in 2006, featuring a monument inscribed with "Yume no Ukihashi no Koseki" (Dream Floating Bridge Historic Site), further emphasizing the area's connection to the novel. (tabi-mag.jp)
Visitors can access the statue by taking the Keihan Uji Line to Uji Station, followed by a 10-minute walk. (tabi-mag.jp) The site offers a serene environment where one can reflect on the rich literary heritage of the region and appreciate the enduring legacy of Murasaki Shikibu.