Philosopher's Walk, Stone walking path in Sakyō-ku, Japan.
The Philosopher's Walk extends for two kilometers along a canal between Ginkakuji Temple and Nanzenji Temple, bordered by numerous cherry trees.
The path opened in 1890 as part of the Lake Biwa Canal system, which brought water to Kyoto and supported the first hydroelectric plant in Japan.
Philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro established the path's reputation by conducting daily meditation walks between his home and Kyoto University.
Visitors can access the path through bus lines 204 or 93 from Marutamachi Station, with the walk taking approximately 30 minutes without stops.
The pathway forms part of the 100 Best Roads in Japan and features several small temples, including Honen-in with its distinctive entrance gate.
Location: Sakyō-ku
Inception: 1890
Part of: 100 Best Roads in Japan
Address: Tetsugaku No Michi, 浄土寺石橋町 左京区 京都市 京都府 606-8426, Japan 606-8426 京都市
Phone: +81753430548
Website: https://tetsugakunomichi.jp
GPS coordinates: 35.02513,135.79617
Latest update: May 26, 2025 20:55
Explore the monuments of Kyoto, including Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, imperial palaces, feudal castles, traditional gardens, and historic districts. This former imperial capital features UNESCO sites such as the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari Shrine, as well as modern cultural places like the Manga Museum and Kyoto Station.
Ginkaku-ji
261 m
Yoshida Shrine
1.1 km
Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji
1.2 km
Hōnen-in
172 m
Shinshōgokuraku-ji
636 m
Hosshō-ji
1.5 km
Sen-oku Hakuko Kan
889 m
Higashiyama Jisho-ji
281 m
Okazaki Shrine
1.1 km
Mount Yoshida
835 m
Anraku-ji
585 m
Jōdo-in
279 m
Hakusasonsō
300 m
Hachi-jinja
307 m
Shinshū Ōtani-ha Okazaki Betsuin
1.1 km
Saiun-in
830 m
Shin-Hase-dera
718 m
Manganji
1.4 km
Saiō-in
1.1 km
Eiun-in
1 km
Ryōkō-in
1 km
Sen-Oku Hakukokan Museum
897 m
Kezō-ji
801 m
Konkaikōmyō-ji
961 m
Nomura Art Museum
1.4 km
Silver Pavilion
229 m
Tōgu-dō
282 m
Nanzen-ji Hōjō
1.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes