Uji City is located in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture, with the Uji River flowing through the city. It is the birthplace of matcha and a city of World Heritage. Byōdō-in's Phoenix Hall is an architectural gem of the Heian period and the prototype for the design on the 10-yen coin. Ujigami Shrine is the oldest Shinto shrine building in Japan. The wisteria and autumn leaves at Mimuroto-ji Temple are stunning. Tea shops such as Ito Kyuemon and Tsujiri are clustered here. Uji matcha is the soul of the local cuisine; matcha desserts (ice cream, mille-feuille, nama yatsuhashi), matcha soba, and matcha ramen are popular; Uji sushi, unagi rice, and matcha yōkan are exceptionally delicious.