How long does it take to walk the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto?

The walk itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes if you don't stop. However, if you explore the temples and shrines along the way, such as Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji, you should allow between 2 and 3 hours for the full experience.

Is the Philosopher's Path walk difficult?

The difficulty is moderate. The canal path is mostly flat stone paving, but visiting the temples often involves walking on gravel or climbing some stairs, especially at Ginkaku-ji and Eikandō.

Is Ginkaku-ji actually made of silver?

No, despite its name meaning 'Silver Pavilion,' it was never covered in silver. It was intended to be, but the Shogun's finances or the onset of war prevented it, leading to the beautiful 'wabi-sabi' wooden appearance seen today.

When is the best time to visit the Philosopher's Path?

The best time is early morning, before 9:00 AM, to enjoy the peace. Seasonally, early April for cherry blossoms and late November for autumn colors are the most popular and visually stunning times.

Can I do this walking route in reverse?

Yes, you can start at Ginkaku-ji and walk south toward Keage. However, starting at Keage allows you to end at Ginkaku-ji, which is near many bus lines and small shops for souvenirs and snacks.

Are there places to eat along the Philosopher's Path?

Yes, there are several charming independent cafes and tea houses along the canal. Most serve matcha, traditional Japanese sweets, or light lunches like udon and soba.

Is there an entry fee for the Philosopher's Path?

The path itself is a public walkway and is free to access. However, the major temples along the route, such as Nanzen-ji, Eikandō, and Ginkaku-ji, require individual paid tickets for entry.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 30 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step into a world where time slows down and nature speaks through the rustle of maple leaves and the gentle flow of water. This self-guided walking route in Kyoto’s eastern Higashiyama district follows the historic Philosopher’s Path, a stone walkway that winds alongside a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Named after Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan’s most famous philosophers who used this route for daily meditation, the path offers a profound sense of tranquility. This journey is more than just a walk; it is an exploration of Japan’s spiritual and architectural heritage, connecting grand Zen complexes with hidden hillside shrines. Begin your self-guided adventure at the Keage Incline, a relic of Meiji-era engineering that has transformed into one of the city’s most picturesque walkways. From there, you will transition from industrial history to spiritual grandeur at Nanzen-ji, home to a massive wooden gate and a surprising red-brick aqueduct. As you continue north, the route introduces you to the 'Looking-back Buddha' at Eikandō and the quirky guardian mice of Ōtoyo Shrine. Each stop provides a unique perspective on Kyoto’s ability to blend the natural world with human devotion. The final stretch of this neighborhood stroll leads you through the moss-covered gates of Hōnenin before concluding at the iconic Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion. While the pavilion was never actually covered in silver, its sophisticated sand gardens and reflection ponds represent the pinnacle of Higashiyama culture. This walking route Kyoto offers is perfect for those seeking to escape the city’s hustle and immerse themselves in the 'wabi-sabi' aesthetic—finding beauty in imperfection and transience. Whether you are visiting during the pink haze of spring or the fiery reds of autumn, this walking route provides a meditative space to reflect on the history and beauty of Japan’s ancient capital.

Highlights

Walk the historic Keage Incline railway tracks
Marvel at the massive Sanmon gate at Nanzen-ji
See the unique red-brick Suirokaku Aqueduct
Discover the rare guardian mice at Ōtoyo Shrine
Explore the zen sand gardens of the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji)
Stroll the peaceful canal-side Philosopher's Path

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Keage Incline

Start exploring with Zigway at the Keage Incline, a slope of abandoned railway tracks that once served as a vital transportation link. In the late 19th century, this was part of the Biwako Canal system, used to transport boats between the canal and the river. Today, the industrial machinery is gone, replaced by a stunning corridor of cherry trees. As you walk along the tracks, imagine the flatbed cars that once carried boats up this hill. It is a rare example of Meiji-era industrial heritage blending seamlessly into Kyoto's natural landscape. This spot is particularly famous for its 'tunnel' of blossoms in early April, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts.

2

Nanzen-ji

A short walk from the incline brings you to Nanzen-ji, one of the most important Zen temples in Japan. The first thing you will notice is the Sanmon, an enormous wooden gate that represents the 'gate of liberation.' Beyond the gate lies a sprawling complex of sub-temples and gardens. One of the most striking features here is the Suirokaku, a large red-brick aqueduct built in 1890. While its Western, Roman-style architecture might seem out of place in a Zen temple, it has become a beloved part of the scenery, often appearing in Japanese television dramas. The contrast between the ancient wooden structures and the weathered brickwork creates a unique atmosphere found nowhere else in Kyoto.

3

Eikandō

Continuing north, you reach Eikandō, also known as Zenrin-ji. This temple is world-renowned for its autumn colors, but its spiritual history is even more compelling. Inside the Amida-do hall is the famous 'Mikaeri Amida' statue. Unlike most Buddha statues that look straight ahead, this one is turned to look over its shoulder. Legend says the statue came to life to encourage a priest named Eikan, telling him he was moving too slowly. The temple grounds also feature a stunning pond and a pagoda perched high on the hillside, offering a peaceful vantage point over the temple roofs and the city beyond.

4

Ōtoyo Shrine

As you begin your stroll along the actual Philosopher's Path canal, look for the entrance to Ōtoyo Shrine. This is a quiet, local favorite known for its unusual guardian animals. While most Japanese shrines are guarded by stone lions or foxes, Ōtoyo is protected by stone mice. One mouse holds a scroll representing wisdom, while the other holds a sake gourd representing fertility and health. These mice are linked to a myth where a mouse saved the deity Okuninushi from a fire. This hidden gem offers a whimsical and intimate break from the larger temple complexes nearby.

5

Hōnenin Temple

Tucked away behind a rustic thatched gate is Hōnenin, a temple that feels like a secret garden. After passing through the gate, you will walk between two large mounds of sand known as Byakusandan. These represent water, and walking between them is said to purify the visitor's mind and body. The designs raked into the sand change with the seasons, often featuring maple leaves or flower motifs. Hōnenin is particularly famous for its lush green moss and the quiet, contemplative atmosphere that inspired many Japanese writers. It is a perfect spot to pause and practice the same meditation that philosopher Nishida Kitaro once did on these very grounds.

6

Ginkaku-ji

Your journey concludes at Ginkaku-ji, the 'Temple of the Silver Pavilion.' Built by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement villa, it was intended to rival the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) built by his grandfather. Interestingly, the silver foil was never applied, leaving the beautiful dark wood exposed—a perfect embodiment of 'wabi-sabi' aesthetics. The grounds are a masterpiece of Zen landscape design, featuring a massive cone of sand called the 'Moon Viewing Platform' and a meticulously raked sand garden meant to resemble the sea. Follow the path up the hill for a final, breathtaking view of the temple complex set against the backdrop of Kyoto’s urban sprawl.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Philosopher's Path is widely considered the best walking route in Higashiyama for nature. It follows a scenic canal for approximately 2 kilometers, lined with cherry trees and maples, connecting major temples like Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji.