Philosopher's Path

哲学の道

The Philosopher's Path is a quiet walking path along a narrow canal at the foot of Kyoto's eastern mountains. It takes its name from the philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who liked to walk here, and a low stone along the way shows his words. The walk is in the area of Ginkaku-ji and Honen-in, with small shops and houses along the way. It is best known for its spring cherry blossoms, which hang over the path like a roof.

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Visitor information

Getting there

Nearest city bus stops: Eikan-do-mae or Ginkaku-ji.

South side: about a 15-minute walk from Keage Station on the subway.

North side: take the Karasuma Subway Line to Imadegawa Station, change to a city bus, get off at "Ginkakuji-michi", then walk about 5 minutes.

Time needed

About 30 minutes if you walk slowly.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

The path is about 1.8 km long, from near Nyakuoji Bridge to Ginkaku-ji Temple.
In spring, cherry blossoms hang over the path like a canopy.
The path passes very close to Anraku-ji Temple and Honen-in Temple.
Ginkaku-ji at the north end is busy with tourists in the daytime but quiet in the early morning.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Walking the whole path at a steady pace takes about 30 minutes.
The path is crowded in the cherry blossom season, but it becomes quiet by sunset.
Plan your visit around prayer times, and carry a travel prayer mat and a qibla app.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Kyoto and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.