Imagine a school where tea flows from the faucets. That’s \u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 for you.
Welcome to \u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821. It is a public elementary school in Uji. It stands as a testament to Uji’s tea culture.
\u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 opened its doors in 1974. It was born from the growing student population at Uji Elementary School. The city established it near the east side of the Ukimaru Bridge. This bridge spans the Uji River.
The first principal was Mr. Mataji Kitamura. He served from 1974 to 1977.
\u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 has seen many changes. In July 1974, they finished the pool and grounds. By November 1974, the gymnasium was complete. An observation pond appeared in March 1976. Then a small birdhouse named Little Bird House was complete in April 1977.
The school even has its own song. It was established in March 1979. School buildings expanded over the years. Classrooms and a library were added in 1980. Three more classrooms arrived in 1982. Three more again in 1984. Earthquake reinforcement work finished in 2009. Air conditioners were installed throughout the school in 2010.
But what truly sets \u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 apart is its tea drinking area. Uji is famous for its tea. So, the school provides tea directly from its water faucets. A large pot boils water constantly. This hot water flows into a tank. The tank contains a cloth bag filled with tea leaves. This system ensures a steady supply of tea.
Imagine red taps dispensing hot tea. Blue taps offer water. Uji is one of Japan’s most famous tea regions. Twenty elementary schools in Uji have this unique system. Children can enjoy tea anytime. This makes \u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 a special place.
\u5b87\u6cbb\u5e02\u7acb\u5ca1\u5c4b\u5c0f\u5b66\u6821 stands as a symbol of local pride. It uniquely blends education with local tradition. The tea faucets embody Uji’s spirit. They offer students a daily taste of their heritage. The school continues to evolve. It enriches the lives of its students. It connects them to the heart of Uji’s tea culture.