The Philosopher's Walk, Kyoto

by ClareyD
Send Photo to a Friend

Philosopher's path

If you only have a few days in Kyoto, I really recommend you shouldn't miss out on the philosopher's path in Easterm Kyoto which runs from Nanzen-ji to Ginkaku-ji (Silver pavillion). Whilst it's especially beautiful during the sakura season and during fall, there is no doubt that this is a pleasant walk all year round if conditions co-operate. Whilst the obvious attractions are the Silver Pavillion and Nanzen-ji you can also find some gems if you wander off the beaten path to some of the smaller temples along the way. We found these to be very quiet and pretty in their own ways. The walk took us about 2 hours including visiting the gardens of the silver pavillion and the grounds of the Nazen-ji although this depends on what you decide to look at on the way. Whilst not essential, during busy seasons it may be better to get an early start to beat the tourists.

Address: East Kyoto


	The Philosopher's Walk: Path of Philosophy	Tip Rating:

By Ines28

on July 17, 2005

by Ines28
Send Photo to a Friend

Path of Philosophy

Between Ginkakuji Temple to the north and Nanzenji Temple to the south is the 1 km Path of Philosophy (Tetsugakuno-michi). The path was named after the famous philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who liked to walk along this route and meditate on philosophical matters. It's a pleasant stroll alongside a canal, past numerous temples and old wooden houses. This was the first thing we did in Kyoto as it is not far from the hotel where we stayed. It was already late afternoon, so many of the temples on the way were already closed (around 5 pm), but this was okay as most of the crowds had already vanished and the afternoon sun on the cherry trees in full bloom was quite romantic! There are many small cafés along the path, but they are very expensive, so if you are looking for a snack or something you should leave the tourist route (which is always advisable!), you'll find cheaper restaurants only a few meters away.

Address: Eastern Kyoto


	The Philosopher's Walk: The Philosopher's walk	Tip Rating:

By elcbw

on July 20, 2004

by elcbw
Send Photo to a Friend

Ginkakuji

The Walk of Philosophy (Tetsugaku no michi) is a pleasant path besides a canal that connects Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) with the vicinity of Nanzenji. Cherry trees are planted along most of the over one kilometer long path, making it one of Kyoto's most popular spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring. The trees are usually in bloom in the beginning to mid April. In addition, several smaller temples and a few restaurants can be found along the way. It is quite a lengthy walk. Proper shoes are highly recommended.

by Restless-in-kl, 2 more photos
Send Photo to a Friend

Address: Eastern part of Kyoto.

Directions: Start the walk at either Ginkakuji or Nanzenji. Note that the path starts/ends a 5-10 minute walk north of Nanzenji.


	The Philosopher's Walk: Feeling philosophical? Take the Philosopher's Walk	Tip Rating:

on December 28, 2005

Philosopher's Walk

If you're in the mood for a pleasant afternoon stroll, come and take the Philosopher's Walk. It's a 1km path beside the canal, lined with lovely shady trees. Go at 3pm and stop for a cup of coffee at one of the quaint cafes or browse the interesting lovely shops here. We met some lovely children who entertained us along the way and nice old couple rekindling a bit of romance (see pictures)

Directions: From Kinkakuji, walk back to bus stop and cross the street. Take bus 204 to Ginkakuji (make sure bus is not going to main station). Stop and start walking beside the canal.


	The Philosopher's Walk: Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto	Tip Rating:

Updated By SLLiew

on August 27, 2007

by SLLiew
Send Photo to a Friend

It is a nice popular trail to walk and ponder like a philospher. There is zen in the air. The trail connects many temples and follows along a canal. You can see herons and willow trees and many cherry blossom trees. Unfortunately it was a few days from cherry flower blooming when I was there. So I have to go back again.


	The Philosopher's Walk: Philosopher's walk.	Tip Rating:

Updated By A2002

on September 28, 2002

by A2002
Send Photo to a Friend

Philopher's Walk.

The Philosopher's walk is a 2-kilometer path running along a canal from some where near the Silver Pavilion(Ginkakuji) south toward Nyakuzutsuji Shrine. It is known as the Philosopher's Walk because a well-known Japanese philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, used to stroll along the route for meditation. The walk has long been a favourite among contemplative strollers. It is a peaceful place to walk.

Directions: From Ginkakuji to Nanznji along the canal.


	The Philosopher's Walk: Path of Philosophy	Tip Rating:

By aukahkay

on April 10, 2007

by aukahkay, 4 more photos
Send Photo to a Friend

Path of Philosophy

The Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku no michi) is a pleasant path besides a canal that connects Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) with the vicinity of Nanzenji. Cherry blossom trees are planted along most of the two kilometer long path, making it one of Kyoto's most popular spots for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring. In addition, several smaller temples and a few restaurants and cafes can be found along the way.

Directions: Take bus 100 from Kyoto Station and get off at Ginkakuji. Follow the signs leading to the Path of Philosophy and walk southwards towards Nanzenji.


	The Philosopher's Walk: Amble along the way of the thinkers...	Tip Rating:

By worldkiwi

on May 8, 2004

by worldkiwi
Send Photo to a Friend

Scene on the Philosopher's
Path, Kyoto.

The Philosopher's Path is in the eastern hills of Kyoto. It passes many small and some large temples and is a popular spot in the evening. You can end or begin it at Nanzen-ji Temple, just off Sanjo-dori.


	The Philosopher's Walk: The Philosopher's Walk	Tip Rating:

By wathy

on December 11, 2004

by wathy
Send Photo to a Friend

You will find this philosopher's walk when you are going to Ginkakuji. By the way, i didn't know this "walk" when my first time to Ginkakuji. This picture was taken in my second visit, so see clearly the sign ^^;


	The Philosopher's Walk: Philosopher's Walk	Tip Rating:

By akikonomu

on December 27, 2003

by akikonomu
Send Photo to a Friend

House perched at hill along
the walk

A stone's throw away from the silver pavillion. Along the philosopher's walk, there're several less well-known shrines. These are less visited and hence more serene and enjoyable. There're also several cafes along the walk where you can rest a while and see the wrold pass by. Also look out for interesting houses in the nearby estates and explore the residential areas if you enjoy looking at houses and local architecture.