Kyoto Prefecture

Philosopher’s Path: Kyoto’s Iconic Sakura Road

Kyoto offers many places to view the cherry blossoms, but the Philosopher’s Path is one of the city’s most iconic. This pedestrian path has long been a popular springtime spot for locals and tourists. In addition to the beautiful soft pink canopy of flowers, this little path runs near many famous shrines and temples. Without question, a sojourn down the Philosopher’s Path is a great way to enjoy cherry blossoms in Kyoto. 

 

About The Philosopher’s Path

Philosopher’s Path is 1.8km long, stretching from Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine near Nanzenji Temple to Ginkakuji Temple. It was originally built as a maintenance route for an irrigation channel from the Lake Biwa Canal. It earned its name however because two famous philosophy professors from Kyoto University, Nishida Kitaro, and Hajime Tanabe, would often walk here and deliberate various theories. 

However, after Nishida passed away, the wife of a famous Japanese artist, Hashimoto Kansetsu, planted these beautiful sakura trees.  

Roughly 500 cherry blossom trees line the Path, making it one of Kyoto’s most famous places for hanami.   

The start of the Philosopher's Path
The path starts at Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine
Blooming cherry blossoms along the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto
It is so relaxing to walk here during the calm of the day.
Blooming cherry blossoms by the Philosopher's Path
sakura

A Pioneer of Japanese Philosophy: Nishida Kitaro

You might be wondering who this Nishida Kitaro is. A pioneer in his time, his book “An Inquiry into the Good” (Zen no Kenkyu) is still a popular research topic, and his philosophy, “Nishida Philosophy” made a profound impact on Japanese philosophy. 

The Philosopher's Path in Kyoto during spring
In spring, many people take a walk here.

 

Walking the Path

Along the Philosopher’s Path are famous shrines and temples like Eikando and Otoyo Shrine, whose familiar is the mouse. Of course, there are also several interesting cafes you may want to drop by!

Koma-nezumi of Otoyo Shrine in Kyoto
Instead of “komainu” Otoyo Shrine has “koma-nezumi”. Cute!
Philosopher's Path, Kyoto
I love the elegance of the flowers over the water.

The Philosopher's Path, Kyoto, Japan

Ginkaku-ji Temple Entrance for the Philosopher's Path
Ginkaku-ji Temple’s Entrance for the Philosopher’s Path.

The Philosopher’s Path is a nice 30-minute walk! It can be crowded during peak season, but even still, it is well worth a visit!

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