Kyoto Japan | Path of Philosophy

The Tetsugaku No Michi 'Philosopher's Path'

The term tetsugaku-no-michi translates to "Philosophers Walk" or "Philosopher's Path," designates a 1 kilometer scenic walkway that was built along the foothills in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The path connects the Ginkakuji Temple "Temple of the Silver Pavilion" at the north end, to the Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine and Eikan-do Hall at the southern end.

When Kyoto was designated as Japan's capital in the 700s, one of the negative aspects of this location was its geographic location and topography. During the summer months, ocean humidity traveling from the south backs up into the Kyoto valley, which is surrounded by mountains on the west, north, and east.

To mitigate the high temperature and humidity during the summer season, a system of canals called 'yari-mizu' or "fashioned streams," were constructed to bring water closer to dwelling in order to provide irrigation and a sense of coolness.

The canals helped to create an atmosphere of coolness and calm, through the look and sound of running water. The canal that runs along the is fed by the Shirakawa River originating from the Higashiyama's Nyoigatake Peak.

The Philosopher Nishida Kitarô

The "Philosopher's Path," was named for famous philosopher Nishida Kitarô's (1870 to 1945) favorite path to stroll while viewing the spring cherry blossoms, or watching the fireflies during a summer evening.

The walk along the Tetsugaku-No-Michi path takes around 30 minutes to complete, and is very popular with the locals during the cherry blossom season and when the autumn leaves turn.

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