Travel for Life

The Philosopher's Path is beautiful in every season, but it’s especially known for two moments of magic: Late November 🍁 — when the maples around Eikandō (永観堂)  and Ginkaku‑ji (銀閣寺)  glow in autumn colors Early April 🌸— when hundreds of cherry trees lining the canal burst into bloom, creating one of Kyoto’s most beloved hanami strolls Whether wrapped in fall’s fading reds or spring’s soft pink canopy, the path offers a quiet, timeless beauty—perfect for slow walks and lingering photos. The Philosopher's Path (哲学の道)  On November 28, 2016 , I set out for the Philosopher’s Path, a quiet walkway tucked into Kyoto’s northern Higashiyama district. The trail follows a gentle canal, where the water mirrors the calm that settles in as soon as you leave the city behind. My walk began near Ginkaku‑ji , the Silver Pavilion (銀閣寺), its silhouette soft against the late‑autumn sky. Further along, Eikandō (永観堂) revealed its famous gardens—flashes of crimson and gold lingering ...

Autumnal Radiance at Ginkakuji (銀閣寺;  YouTube link )   Situated at the terminus of the Philosopher’s Path , also known as “Along the Old Canal,” the Ginkakuji Temple , marks the end of the trail that originates from Nanzenji Temple . The pavilion’s name, which translates to Silver Pavilion (銀閣寺⭐⭐), sets it apart from the Kinkakuji or Golden Pavilion (金閣寺), despite the Silver Pavilion’s design being a homage to the latter. Ginkakuji  unfolds as you walk a circular path around its grounds. First, you'll encounter the Silver Pavilion itself, followed by several other temple buildings. As you continue, a beautiful moss garden will greet you, and finally, a unique dry sand garden will come into view. Throughout this calming journey, you'll be rewarded with captivating views of the gardens, the temple structures, and even a glimpse of Kyoto City itself. Ginkakuji Temple  Instead of taking the Philosopher's Path, I explored a different route to Ginkakuji Temple on Novembe...

The North-East Area of Kyoto includes the following famous temples: Ginkakuji Temple Eikando Temple Nanzenji Temple The whole area (click the map to enlarge) can be visited by walk along the canal in about 50 mins. [1] This is a pleasant city stroll following the old canal, lined with cherry trees, between Ginkakuji Temple and Nanzenji Temple . Local scholars call the little alley flanking the canal " The Path of Philosophy ". Temples Ginkakuji Temple (銀閣寺 Silver Pavilion)  Is a Zen temple along Kyoto 's eastern mountains (Higashiyama). Consists of the Silver Pavilion, half a dozen other temple buildings, a beautiful moss garden and a unique dry sand garden. Can be enjoyed by walking along a circular route around its grounds, from which the gardens and buildings can be viewed. Admission: 500 yen Hours: 8:30 to 17:00 (03/01 to 11/30) 9:00 to 16:30 (12/01 to 02/29) Eikando Temple (永観堂)  Is very famous for its autumn colors and...