The 13-story stone pagoda was originally submerged in the Uji River and was salvaged and re-erected on Tōno-shima in 1908.
Tōno-shima, the central island in the park, was constructed in the 17th century by the feudal lord of Fushimi to prevent flooding.
The park is officially designated as a prefectural park under the management of Kyoto Prefecture.
The area is famous for the 'Uji-bashi' bridge, which has been recorded in Japanese literature as far back as the 7th century.
The park serves as the seasonal venue for Ukai, the traditional art of fishing using trained cormorants.
Uji Park is a prominent riverside green space situated on the islands of the Uji River, connected by the historic Uji Bridge. The park is home to the landmark 13-story stone pagoda, known as the Jūsan-jū Sekitō, which stands on the Tōno-shima islet. It serves as the primary pedestrian link between the Byodo-in Temple on the western bank and the Ujigami Shrine area to the east. The grounds feature expansive lawns, cherry trees, and dedicated seating areas overlooking the river rapids. It is a central hub for Uji’s traditional cormorant fishing demonstrations during warmer months. The park functions as a natural barrier and recreational space that preserves the riparian landscape of the Uji River.
The red Asagiri-bashi bridge looking toward the 13-story stone pagoda.
Cross the red-painted Asagiri-bashi bridge for the best vantage points of the river currents.
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Byodo-in Temple, located just across the river.
Check the local Uji tourism calendar if you intend to witness the evening cormorant fishing sessions.
Attempting to visit the pagoda islets during periods of high river levels or heavy rainfall when access bridges may be cordoned off.
Maintain silence near the pagoda and religious markers; do not enter the river waters.
