The Philosopher’s walk, also known as Tetsugaku no Michi, is a pedestrian route located in the Northern Higashiyama district of Kyoto that stretches for around 2 kilometers along the Lake Biwa Canal among stunning natural scenery.
The path was named for Kyoto University professor and influential 20th-century Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have used the route for a daily meditative walk, and nowadays is well-known as a popular cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing location.

Philosopher?s walk also passes by some of the most impressive shrines and temples in Japan, many of which are just a short stroll from the canal and easy to visit, as well as a number of charming restaurants and cafés perfect for a light lunch. Philosopher’s Walk during Hanami
The amount of time it takes to complete the walk is usually around 30 minutes, but it can take longer during the Hanami season due to the crowds of both locals and tourists who flock to the tree-lined canal. Furthermore, most visitors take the time to visit the many attractions just off the route.
Best time to visit
To avoid the crowds during Hanami, visitors are advised to consider walking the path after the sun has gone down and revelers have largely gone home.
Although a walk in the dark may not sound too appealing, the Philosopher?s Path is illuminated at night and appears positively magical after sunset.
Another solution for beating the crowds is to visit the Philosopher?s Walk during June...