Table of Contents
Cherry Blossoms on Philosopher’s Path
Basic Information
| Cherry blossom spot | Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi) |
| Best time to see the cherry blossoms | Late March – early April |
| Number of cherry trees | About 400 (Someiyoshino, etc.) |
| Total length | Approx. 1.5km |
| Hours of operation | 24 hours |
| Admission fee | Free of charge |
| Light up | No lights |
| Parking lot | No parking lot |
| Location | Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture |
| Tel. | 075-761-1944（Philosopher’s Path Preservation Association) |
| Official website | https://tetsugakunomichi.jp/ |
Features and Highlights
- Cherry blossom tunnel with about 500 cherry trees
- Sekisetsu Cherry Blossoms” donated by Japanese painter Hashimoto Sekisetsu
- A path of contemplation surrounded by silence
During the best season, about 500 cherry trees, mainly Someiyoshino, bloom and form a magnificent cherry blossom tunnel. Visitors can enjoy the quiet environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city and contemplate while admiring the cherry blossoms.
The “Sekisetsu Cherry Blossoms” are 300 cherry trees donated by the artist Hashimoto Sekisetsu as a token of his gratitude to Kyoto, and are in bloom along the Philosophical Path.
Every year from early to mid-April, the Philosopher’s Path is at its best when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, pink cherry petals dance in the air, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
How to get there
- From Kyoto Station: Take city bus No. 100 (bound for Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, or Ginkaku-dera), about 37 minutes, and get off at Ginkaku-dera-mae bus stop.
- From the south: From Karasuma Oike Station on the Subway Karasuma Line, transfer to the Tozai Line and get off at Keage Station. 20-minute walk from Keage Station.
Popular nearby spots
Ginkakuji Temple
A World Heritage Site located at the northern end of the Philosophical Path. Tougudo Hall, known as the Silver Pavilion, is famous.
Nanzenji Temple
A Zen temple located at the southern end of the Philosophical Path. It is one of the three major Zen temples in Japan and famous for its autumn foliage.
Eikando Hall
This temple is known for its beautiful bright red autumn leaves. It is located along the Philosophical Path.
Let’s walk and enjoy the spring in Kyoto!
Philosopher’s Path is a springtime tradition in Kyoto, where the beauty of cherry blossoms and the historical background are in harmony. Why not visit for a tour of cherry blossom viewing spots or a contemplative stroll?
