Thing to do
Nishiki Market
A narrow covered market street of around 130 food shops between Teramachi and Takakura, known for centuries as Kyoto's kitchen.
Philosopher’s Path
A stone footpath beside a cherry-lined canal at the foot of the eastern hills, linking Ginkaku-ji in the north with the Nanzen-ji area to the south.
At a glance
- Type
- Canal-side walk
- Area
- Sakyo, Kyoto, Japan
Good to know
- Free
- Cherry trees
- Cafés along the route
Why we recommend it
The Philosopher's Path, Tetsugaku-no-michi, is a stone footpath that follows a narrow canal along the foot of the Higashiyama hills between Ginkaku-ji and the Nanzen-ji area. The canal carries water from the Lake Biwa Canal, and the path alongside it was first laid out in 1890 and extended in 1912. It takes its name from the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, a Kyoto University professor who is said to have walked it every day, as did his colleague Hajime Tanabe.
The walk itself takes around 30 minutes, but most people spend much longer, because the path links a string of temples and shrines. Honen-in, a short climb off the route, has a thatched gate and sand mounds raked with seasonal designs. Otoyo Shrine is guarded by statues of mice rather than the usual lion dogs. At the southern end, Eikan-do is famous for its autumn maples, and Nanzen-ji, with its huge Sanmon gate and red-brick aqueduct, is a few minutes further. From the northern section there are views of the Daimonji character on the hillside.
The path is lined with cherry trees, and during hanami in early April it becomes one of the most popular places in Kyoto to see the blossom, with petals drifting onto the water. Autumn brings red and gold leaves to the hills above the canal. In any season, an early morning walk is the quietest. The path is mostly level and paved with stone or gravel, so it suits walkers of all ages, although some side visits involve steps.
Small cafés, gift shops and galleries are spread along the canal, and there are benches for a rest. There are no large restaurants directly on the route, so it is worth planning lunch at one end, for example udon at Omen near Ginkaku-ji or the tofu restaurants around Nanzen-ji. Public toilets are limited, so use the facilities at the temples.
Walking north to south is downhill and ends conveniently near Keage Station on the Tozai subway line. To start at the northern end, take a city bus to Ginkakuji-michi. Combined with Ginkaku-ji at one end and Nanzen-ji at the other, the path fills a relaxed half day, and it continues naturally into the Okazaki area with Heian Shrine and the city's art museums.
Philosopher’s Path FAQs
How long is the walk?
Walking the path without stops takes about 30 minutes, but allow a half day to visit the temples along it.
Where does the Philosopher's Path start and end?
It runs between Ginkaku-ji in the north and the Nanzen-ji area in the south.
Why is it called the Philosopher's Path?
It is named after the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have walked it daily.
When is the best time to visit?
Early April for cherry blossom and November for autumn colours, ideally early in the morning.
Is it free?
Yes. The path is a public walkway, although temples along it may charge admission.
Which direction should you walk?
North to south is gently downhill and ends near Keage Station on the Tozai line.
Is it suitable for children and older visitors?
Yes. The path is mostly level, though detours to some temples involve steps.
What is nearby?
Ginkaku-ji, Honen-in, Eikan-do, Nanzen-ji and Heian Shrine.