Tetsugaku no michi in cherry blossom glory (Photo: Kimon Berlin)

(Writer: Alena Eckelmann)

Autumn in particular is a popular season to visiting this area. The grounds of Eikan-do and the area near the impressive gate of Honen-in are prime spots for admiring the colorful leaves of maple trees. The autumn foliage of the path’s cherry trees is also splendid and makes for a nice and relaxing autumn walk.

While this path makes for a nice stroll during all seasons, it offers the most spectacular views in spring when the hundreds of cherry trees that line the path are in full bloom. The neighborhood becomes a sea of pink, and people in spring mood love nothing more than to wander along under the precious and frail-looking blossoms that lightly sway back and forth in the cool March and April air. This is one of the Kyotoites most popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots.

If you start your walk from Ginkakuji, then take Kyoto City bus no. 5, 203 and 204 from Kyoto Station to Kyoto City Bus to Ginkakuji-michi or else find your way from Nanzen-ji at the southern end of the path. Coming from Kyoto Station, make sure to pick up a Philosopher’s Path walking map from the Kyoto Tourist Office on the 9th floor of the Kyoto Station building.