Places to visit in Kyoto – Philosopher’s path

by Japanfokus · Published 29 May, 2015 · Updated 29 May, 2015

There are many beautiful places to visit in Kyoto. One of my favorite strolls is along Philosopher’s Path (also called Philosopher’s Walk by some), especially during spring when white and pink cherry blossoms are filling the entire scene! The path is about two kilometers long and runs on the eastern hillside (Higashiyama) between Ginkakuji temple (Silver Pavilion) and Nanzenji temple. The path itself is flat and easy to walk but you need to ascend a slope to get up there. Along Philosopher’s Path there are some stops along the walk where you will get a nice view over Kyoto.

Here is a map showing where the Philosopher’s Path is starting (or ending, depending on your direction). It’s the small road next to the stream going north.

Japan Experience (where I have rented houses twice) have produced a short video of the Philosopher’s Path area. Check it out above (if you haven’t already) to get a glimpse of what it is all about. Below are some of my own photos. We had some bad luck with the weather last time (it was unusually cold) but otherwise it is a lovely walk along the small stream!