Philosopher’s Path

In the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, there is a canal that in spring would be dyed pink, by fallen petals from the cherry trees densely lining the paths on either side. These paths, famous for the cherry blossom viewing, are collectively called Tetsugaku no michi or Philosopher’s Path. Its name stemmed from the Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro (1870-1945), who often strolled here to meditate on life. Stretching 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) north-south, the walk takes about 30 minutes to finish.

What to Expect from Philosopher’s Path?

 Wander under cherry blossoms donated by a painter. Although the spring here is not as spectacular as in the southern Maruyama Park which boasts over 680 cherry trees, Philosopher’s Path has a matchless unique background: 300 cherry trees here were donated by the Japanese painter Hashimoto Kansetsu (1883 - 1945), a prominent figure in the art world of Japan. If interested, you can visit Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden & Museum off the path near the north end, where the artist once lived and worked.

 Drop by holy sites. As Philosopher’s Path starts from Kumano Nyakuoji-jinja Shrine and ends before Ginkakuji Temple, visitors can drop by the two sites while hanging around the path. The former often offers traditional cultural performances to watch, while the latter is a UNESCO-listed Zen temple. You can also stop by the Eikando Temple to see its awesome fall colors and Nanzenji Temple or Honen-in Temple to appreciate fascinating carefully-arranged gardens.

 Taste tea at teahouses and Japanese dishes. There are also teahouses, Japanese-style restaurants, and sweets stores densely found around the north end of the path. Drop in one to rest your feet if you plan to walk from south to north.

Best Ways to Get There from Kyoto Station 

By train (7 stops, 15 minutes): 
Take the Karasuma Line to Karasuma-Oike Station, transfer to the Tozai Line, get off at Keage Station, and walk 15 minutes to the south end of the path.

By bus (around 40 minutes):
Take bus No. 17 (18 stops) or No. 5 (21 stops), get off at Ginkakuji-michi Station, walk 7 minutes to the north end of the path.

Nearby Hot Attractions

Ginkaku-ji Temple (at the northern end of Philosopher’s Path): Ginkaku-ji, once the retirement villa of an ancient military ruler of Japan, is a UNESCO-listed Zen temple to immerse in the spiritual Zen world of the ruler, who devoted his life to aesthetic pursuit.