Path of Philosophy

The Philosopher’s Path is an approximately 2 km promenade along the Lake Biwa Canal, running from Wakaoji Bridge in front of Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine to Ginkakuji Bridge. It is said to have been named because philosophers such as Kitaro Nishida and Hajime Tanabe, who taught at Kyoto University, used to walk here while lost in thought. In spring, cherry blossoms form a tunnel of flowers; May brings fresh greenery; and autumn offers beautiful foliage—making it a place to enjoy seasonal scenery year-round. The cherry trees along the path are collectively called “Kansetsu-zakura,” originating from a donation of 300 cherry trees to Kyoto City by the Japanese-style painter Kansetsu Hashimoto and his wife Yone, who lived nearby. The route is also known as a quiet walkway connecting Nanzen-ji and Eikan-do to Ginkaku-ji, ideal for exploring the Higashiyama area on foot. Along the way are many highlights, including Nanzen-ji (famous for autumn leaves), Eikan-do (known for the “Mikaeri Amida,” the ‘Looking-Back’ Amida Buddha), Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine, Otoyo Shrine (noted for hydrangeas), Hakusa-sonso—Hashimoto Kansetsu Memorial Museum (with its garden of stone Buddhas), and Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion).