The Uji area, featured in the 2024 NHK Taiga drama Hikaru Kimi e, has become a hotspot.
Among the many shops, we visited the exceptionally popular Nakamura Tokichi Main Store!
But, it was really crowded! 😅
If you don’t plan ahead, you might miss out on what you want to try. Let me share some tips to help you navigate this experience.
Our Situation
- Group: 3 adults + 1 baby (total: 4)
- Relationship: Family
- Day: Weekday
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Reservation: None
Access
The store is a 3-minute walk from JR Uji Station.
Exit the station, head straight past the rotary, and you’ll spot the shop’s traditional noren curtains in no time.
From Kyoto City to Uji:
There are two main train routes: JR and Keihan.
Here’s my personal recommendation:
- Take JR to Uji.
- On the way back, opt for Kintetsu.
The JR and Keihan stations are about a 15-minute walk apart—not too far, but after a long day, it can feel quite exhausting, especially with luggage or a baby in tow.
Our Itinerary:
- Arrive by JR.
- Visit Nakamura Tokichi Main Store to get a waiting ticket.
- Explore Byodoin Temple.
- Stroll around the shopping street.
- Return to Nakamura Tokichi for dining and souvenirs.
- Walk along Uji River.
- Visit the Tale of Genji Museum.
- Return to Kyoto via Keihan.
If you’re driving, parking is available too.
About the Store
Nakamura Tokichi Main Store has become incredibly popular due to the recent Uji tourism boom and the influx of visitors.
Reservations are not accepted, so you’ll need to get a waiting ticket on the day of your visit.
When we arrived on a weekday at 11:00 AM, there were 83 groups already waiting!
Is this Tokyo Disneyland? 😅
If you don’t know about the waiting system, you might find yourself saying:
“I thought I could eat right away, but I’m starving!”
If it’s a must-visit for you, get your ticket early! You can also check the waiting status on the official website.
Important Notes:
- Lunch service ends at 3:00 PM.
- For their tea soba, aim to get a ticket before 12:00 PM on weekdays or 11:00 AM on weekends.
Our Day:
- Ticket issued at 11:30 AM.
- Called at 2:00 PM.
- Total wait time: 2.5 hours!
Menu
Seasonal specials like green tea soba with white miso were available. It looked delicious!
The must-try: Maruto Parfait.
The gyokuro parfait is a main-store and limited-time offering—absolutely divine!
Ordering is done via mobile, so you place your order from your smartphone.
What We Ordered
- Uji Tencha Kitsune Tea Soba (à la carte) - ¥1,600
２、White Miso Chicken Tea Soba (set) - ¥2,250
- Includes tea leaf rice and matcha jelly.
３、Maruto Parfait (à la carte) - ¥1,850
We skipped the drink set (+¥700) since the complimentary tea was so good!
A Life-Saver for Latecomers
Can’t make it to the main store? Don’t worry!
1. Nakamura Tokichi Byodoin Store
Located along the path to Byodoin Temple, this self-service branch offers a more casual experience.
Here, you can enjoy Maruto Drink (a drinkable parfait) or even a Byodoin version of the Maruto Parfait.
2. Nakamura Tokichi Shijo Store
Situated on the 3rd floor of Takashimaya S.C. near Kawaramachi intersection. It offers a similar menu, including the Maruto Parfait.
3. Nakamura Tokichi Kyoto Station Store
Located on the 3rd floor of Isetan at Kyoto Station, this branch also serves the Maruto Parfait, just like the Shijo store.
Final Thoughts
Uji is filled with incredible matcha spots, but Nakamura Tokichi stands out as a must-visit destination.
It’s super busy, so be sure to get your ticket in the morning to avoid missing out.
Thanks for the meal! 🍵