Are you planning to go to Kyoto? Then don’t miss the walk on the beautiful Philosophers’ Path. During this unique walk in Kyoto you walk along a flowing stream surrounded by centuries-old cherry trees. In the spring, when all the cherry trees are in bloom at the same time, this is certainly an unforgettable sight.
The professor of the Philosophers’ Path
The Philosophers’ Path is named after philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro who walked the path every day as a daily meditation. If you want you can walk the entire path within 30 minutes. However, I recommend that you definitely take the time to view the various temples along the route.
Walking on the Philosophers’ Path
Be enchanted by the rippling water and the singing of birds as you walk along the winding Philosophers’ Path. This route takes you through an authentic Japanese neighborhood and is dotted with cozy restaurants and charming shops. Here you really discover a different side of Kyoto. Since it is likely to be busier with tourists during the day, it is recommended to do your walk early in the morning or near sunset. It can be a bit busier than normal here, especially in autumn, when the leaves are colored, and in spring when the blossoms are blooming. However, because the path is somewhat remote, it will certainly be less crowded here than in central Kyoto.
The Philosophers’ Path and the four seasons
The Philosophers’ Path reveals its enchanting beauty not only in spring or autumn; throughout the year the path has its own charm in different ways.
During the cold winter months you walk along the path while a thin layer of ice covers the water and frost clings to the branches, sometimes even with a flake of snow. In spring, celebrate traditional Hanami parties with locals and visitors under the blooming cherry blossoms. In summer the path is enchanted by thousands of fireflies as night falls, while autumn brings out a beautiful palette of warmly colored leaves.
The sights of the Philosophers’ Path
You will find many interesting sights along this walking path. Take a side path every now and then and be surprised by the beautiful temples and enchanting shrines. The small, moss-covered Honen-in temple is definitely worth a visit. It is a quiet and atmospheric place among the trees, where you can stroll around. Although the Honen-in radiates a bit more tranquility, the Nanzen-Ji temple is a bit more impressive in size. This temple, with its gigantic wooden gate, is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. Take the time to walk through the rock gardens and don’t miss the old bridge.
How do I get to the Philosophers’ Path?
Public transport in Japan is all well organised. You have different options to get there.
From Kyoto Station you can take bus number 5 or 17 and get off at Ginkakuji-michi. This stop is a few minutes’ walk from Ginkaku-ji Temple at the north end of the Philosophers’ Trail. Would you rather take the train or the metro? Then take the Keihan Main Line or the Eizan Main Line and get off at Demachiyanagi Station. From here you can walk to Ginkaku-ji temple in 30 minutes. Another option is to take the Tozai line to Keage Station and from here it is about a 10-minute walk to Nanzen-ji Temple. Of course, the most beautiful way is to just go for a walk. This way you will walk among the locals and discover the most charming streets of Kyoto.
Curious about my personal adventures in Kyoto? Then read more here!
