This article concludes the exploration of Uji on May 11, 2008, with a reflective walk through its “Townscape.” Returning from Byodo-in Temple along the bustling omotesando (approach) to Uji Bridge, the author passes historical landmarks like the Kanbayashi Memorial Museum, a former tea master’s residence that exemplifies Uji’s enduring tea culture. The narrative delves into the dual nature of Uji: its role as a scenic retreat for ancient emperors and Heian aristocrats, and its strategic importance as a transportation hub that made it a recurring battlefield in Japanese history. By listing pivotal conflicts—from the Bridge Battle of 1180 to the fall of the Ashikaga Shogunate at Makishima Castle—the report captures how Uji’s geographical location between Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka has shaped its profound and turbulent historical identity.

本稿は2008年05月11日に、宇治の史跡巡りを締めくくる形で「宇治の町並み」を散策した際の記録です。平等院表参道の賑わいから、宇治茶の歴史を今に伝える上林記念館の長屋門、そして京阪宇治駅へと至る道すがら、宇治という土地が持つ重層的な性格を考察しています。古代の離宮や貴族の別業として愛された「風光明媚な景勝地」としての側面と、京・奈良・大坂を結ぶ「交通の要衝」ゆえに幾多の戦乱の舞台となった軍事的な側面。歴史の転換点となった数々の宇治川の合戦を振り返りながら、穏やかな現在の町並みの背後に潜む、ダイナミックな歴史のうねりを格調高く記述しております。