Philosopher's Path

4.6 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Hiking Area・Park・Point Of Interest・Establishment

The Philosopher's Path in Kyoto is a charming and tranquil walkway that offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This path, stretching about two kilometers, follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees, creating a stunning tunnel of blossoms in spring. It's named after Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan's most famous philosophers, who is said to have used this route for daily meditation.

Walking along the Philosopher's Path, you'll be enveloped in a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection or a leisurely stroll. The path meanders through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district, connecting the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) with the neighborhood of Nanzen-ji. This area is not just about natural beauty; it's dotted with cafes, boutiques, and small temples, offering plenty of stops to explore and relax.

Philosopher's Path is particularly popular during cherry blossom season, when the overhanging branches form a spectacular canopy of pink. However, it's equally enchanting in other seasons, with lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and a quiet, introspective beauty in winter.

Hours:

Open 24 hours daily

Closed:

Open year-round, no closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages welcome

Fees:

No entry fee

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Phone

+81 75-343-0548

Website

tetsugakunomichi.jp

The area

Address

Tetsugaku No Michi, 浄土寺石橋町左京区京都市京都府 606-8426, Japan

Top ways to experience Philosopher's Path

10hrs

Private Guided English Tour with Hotel Pickup in Kyoto

From $687 /person

8hrs

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kyoto City

From $214 /person

9hrs

Hire a Private Local Guide for a Day in Kyoto

From $394 /person

What other travelers are saying about Philosopher's Path

I had a peaceful and scenic walk along Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道). The cherry trees that line the canal create a stunning atmosphere, especially in spring when the blossoms are in full bloom. Even outside of sakura season, the path is tranquil and offers beautiful views of nature. It’s an excellent spot for a quiet stroll, reflection, or even photography. There are also some lovely temples and shrines along the way, which adds to the cultural experience. Definitely a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a peaceful, introspective walk in Kyoto.

Elias Chelala (Chewy)

Oct 12, 2024

Excellent place to walk in nature, when cherries 🍒 blossom that is extra bonus. Path is famous as walking place for university philosophers. There are many temples and historical place along the route. No problem having coffee or cake, it is very popular for locals and foreigners. Right shoes, water and snack is great, it is light exercise even for older people

m “Sokolik” o

Oct 13, 2024

I can imagine that during cherry blossom season it must be phenomenal. Now it's just pretty and serene. A quiet place to go, along with the other tourists..

Avi Kessler

Oct 22, 2024

Walked the southern end of the path during cherry blossom season. It was quieter than the keage incline (where we started from) and very peaceful. The canals are super cute. The cherry trees aren't as dense here, but placed throughout the path (at least on the southern end). I would have liked to walk farther up, but we had other stops planned and left the path early. The exit we found was convenient to continue our walking loop around Kyoto.

Alison Kiraly

Aug 9, 2024

Cherry blossom lined walk Walk along the canal to view beautiful cherry blossoms in a loverly setting. The walk leads to the Silver Temple, there are cafes and tea houses along the path. Allow a full day to soak it all up and really enjoy it. Near the temple there is a market like couple of streets good shopping. Accessible by train and bathrooms in cafes. Places to picnic too but be aware it’s a long walk so you wouldn’t want to be carrying g too much A highlight of Kyoto. Love your local guide-❤️ Please follow me your support is needed.