Philosopher's Path
Walk · Sakyō, Kyoto

Philosopher's Path

Photo: David Monniaux · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

A stone walkway about 2 km long beside a canal in the northern Higashiyama hills. It is named after philosopher Nishida Kitarō, who walked it daily. Cherry trees line the canal, and small temples and cafes sit along the route between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji.

On day 5 of Kyoto in 5 days

Good to know

Time to spend
30 minutes–1 hour, longer with temple stops
Tickets
Free, open at all hours
Best time
Late March to early April for cherry blossom; autumn
Getting there
Bus to Ginkakuji-michi (north end) or walk from Keage (south)

Itineraries with Philosopher's Path

Day 5 of Kyoto in 5 days

The Philosopher's Path into Gion

How Philosopher's Path fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Ginkaku-jiSakyō
  2. 10:00Philosopher's PathSakyō
  3. 12:00Nanzen-jiSakyō
  4. 17:00Gion and Hanami-koji at duskGion
See all 5 days
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Philosopher's Path questions

How long is the Philosopher's Path?

About 2 km. It takes 30–40 minutes at a steady pace, but most people stop along the way.

Which end should I start the Philosopher's Path?

Either works. Starting at Ginkaku-ji and walking south lets you end at Nanzen-ji and the subway.

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