The Tale of Genji Museum

Museum in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture

About

The Tale of Genji Museum

The Tale of Genji Museum (源氏物語ミュージアム) is located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, at latitude 34.893793 and longitude 135.810537. This museum is dedicated to "The Tale of Genji," a classic work of Japanese literature written by Murasaki Shikibu in the early 11th century.

Museum Overview:

  • Address: 45-26 Uji Higashiuchi, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM).
  • Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday) and during the New Year holidays.
  • Admission Fees:
    • Adults: 600 yen (480 yen for groups of 20 or more).
    • Children (elementary and junior high school students): 300 yen (240 yen for groups).
    • Discounts are available for individuals with disability certificates and their caregivers.

Access:

  • By Train:
    • From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Uji Station (approximately 15 minutes), then walk about 15 minutes to the museum.
    • Alternatively, take the Keihan Uji Line to Uji Station, then walk about 8 minutes.
  • By Car:
    • From Osaka: Via the Meishin Expressway, transfer to the Keiji Bypass at Oyamazaki Junction, exit at Uji-Nishi IC, and drive approximately 10 minutes.
    • From Nagoya: Via the Meishin Expressway, transfer to the Keiji Bypass at Seta-Higashi Junction, exit at Uji-Higashi IC, and drive approximately 5 minutes.

Parking:

  • Regular vehicles: 100 yen per 30 minutes (15 spaces available).
  • Buses: 2,500 yen per use (reservation recommended).

Exhibits and Features:

The museum offers a comprehensive exploration of "The Tale of Genji" through various exhibits:

  • Reconstructed Displays: Experience life in the Heian period with full-scale models, including a replica of a nobleman's ox-drawn carriage and a detailed model of the Rokujo-in residence.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engage with hands-on displays that bring scenes from the novel to life.
  • Original Films: Watch exclusive films that delve into the "Uji Jujo" (The Ten Chapters of Uji), the final chapters of the novel set in Uji.

Seasonal Highlights:

The museum's surroundings are adorned with seasonal flora:

  • Autumn: From mid-November to early December, maple trees along the path to the museum entrance create a vibrant tunnel of red and orange hues. The reflection of these colors in the pond and views from within the museum offer picturesque scenes. (koyo.walkerplus.com)

Additional Facilities:

  • Museum Shop "Hanachirusato": Named after a character from the novel, this shop offers a variety of souvenirs and publications related to "The Tale of Genji."
  • Café "Unjo Saryo": Enjoy refreshments inspired by the Heian period, including matcha desserts and seasonal specialties.

For more detailed information, please visit the official website: (city.uji.kyoto.jp)