Tetsugaku-no-michi(Philosopher’s Path) in Kyoto – Highlights & Personal photos.

2024-07-152024-08-31

One of the sightseeing spots you can’t miss when you come to Kyoto is Tetsugaku-no-michi (Philosopher’s Path). Tetsugaku-no-michi is a 1.5 km long walking path along the Lake Biwa Canal line in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

This article will share the highlights of Tetsugaku-no-michi, along with some personal photographs.

Getting to Tetsugaku-no-michi from Kyoto Station

The most convenient way to reach Tetsugaku-no-michi from Kyoto Station is by bus, as there is no nearby train station. From Kyoto Station, it takes about 45 minutes by bus and walk.

STEP

Board bus 17 from the bus stop A2, or bus 5 from the bus stop A1 at Kyoto Station Bus Terminal.

The terminal is located right next to the central exit of Kyoto Station on the north side. Follow the “Bus” signs located throughout Kyoto Station to the bus terminal. The photo above is the bus terminal.

Look for the pillar marked A1 or A2 and the bus number is number 5 or 17. Be careful not to board a bus with a different number.

STEP

Disembark at Ginkakuji-michi bus stop.

It takes about 35 minutes to get here from Kyoto Station.

STEP

From the bus stop, walk about 500 meters, which takes about 7 minutes.

The photo above is the entrance to Tetsugaku-no-michi.

Highlights of Tetsugaku-no-michi

The canal that runs along the side is a canal drawn from Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake. It is famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot, and in spring you can see cherry blossoms in full bloom lining the road. I was impressed by the atmosphere of walking through the cherry blossom tunnel.

It’s fun to walk leisurely and look around.

The best time to see cherry blossoms is usually from early to mid-April.

There are also cafes and souvenir shops along the way, so you can enjoy taking a break and shopping. It is crowded during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, so if you visit early in the morning or on weekdays, it will be relatively empty.

There is no fence between the paving stone path and the stream, which makes for a nice scenic view, but there is a high step to the stream’s surface and the water level is low, so it can be dangerous if you fall. Please be careful not to leave small children unattended.