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Philosopher's Path

Reset and refresh admist the Kyoto Crowds.

Quick Look

Scenic

Photography

Outdoor

Free

About

One of my favourite short and relaxing walks in Japan. It’s a rare place where Japan’s deep historical soul and its vibrant natural seasons coexist, allowing you to reset and escape away from the crowds in Kyoto.

Must Do's

Visit Keage Incline

Visit Nanzen-ji

Key Info

cost

accessibility

uniqueness

*Learn more about my Key Information methodology here.

Cost

Free! Enjoy Kyoto's great nature and history at no expense.

Accessibility

The South End is easily reachable using the metro. Take the Kyoto subway to Keage Station.

Uniqueness

What I love about Philosopher's path is its combination of activities that you can do. See beautiful nature and sakura during the sakura season, whilst visiting some of Japan's oldest historical landmarks such as Nanzen-Ji. It's a great place to visit to get a wholistic understanding of Japan from a historical and nature perspective.

My Experience

The Philosopher’s Path remains one of my favorite escapes from the bustle of Kyoto. It offers a serene, beautiful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city center. While it's a bit removed from downtown, the trail is well-paved and manageable, winding past some of Kyoto’s most captivating "hidden" gems. My personal highlights include the Keage Incline (a stunning, historical railway which you can walk on), and the grand Nanzen-ji Temple. Having walked this route twice, I can say it’s beautiful in any season, but Sakura season is the peak time to visit. The sight of cherry blossoms arching over the old tracks at the Keage Incline is something you have to see to believe. The Recommended Route: Start: Keage Incline (South End) Mid-point: Nanzen-ji Temple Finish: Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion) at the North End Total Distance: Approximately 2km