The Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto

Overview: The Philosopher's walk is a classic walk in Kyoto that connects several ancient temples via a meandering, paved trail. This attraction is highly recommended on any visit to Kyoto, as it combines visits to three magnificent temples, including typical Japanese gardens, with an opportunity to stretch your legs while taking in the typical serene Japanese atmosphere.

The route got its name from a Kyoto University philosophy professor, Nishida Kitaro, who used it for his daily meditation.

Tips: * The Philosopher's Walk can be walked any time of the year, but the cherry blossom season (roughly the month of April) is the best time of year to visit.
* The walk is flat and easy. It is about 2 miles / 3 kilometers.
* The Philosopher's walk is great for families with young children, and the paved trail is stroller friendly.
* The start of the Philosopher's walk at the Ginkaku-Ji temple is easily reachable from Kyoto's city center. A cab ride from the Central Railway station takes about 20 minutes. Ask your cab driver to drop you off at the Ginkaku-Ji temple, and mostly likely he will understand and know where to go.
* It's easy to find a taxi at the end of the walk, in front of the Nanzen-Ji Temple.
* Allow for enough time at all three temples to take in the serene atmosphere and observe the noteworthy details.