Cherry Blossom CREAM PUFF and SAKURA Flowers in JAPAN 🌸 | Philosopher's Path in Kyoto

Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no Michi 哲学の道) is a two-kilometer stone walkway following a narrow canal lined with cherry trees, connecting Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) to Nanzen-ji Temple. Originally part of the Lake Biwa Canal project during the Meiji era, this path played a crucial role in Kyoto’s modernization. It later became known as the Philosopher’s Path after Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan’s most important 20th-century philosophers, who was said to have walked here daily in quiet reflection. Today, it remains a place of contemplation, history, and seasonal beauty.

At the start of the walk near Ginkaku-ji, a must-visit spot is Ginkakuji Matsubaya, a historic confectionery shop known for its seasonal sweets. In spring, they offer a limited-edition sakura cream puff, filled with cherry blossom-infused cream that captures the fleeting essence of Kyoto’s most celebrated season. Light, floral, and perfectly balanced, this treat is a reminder of the ephemerality that makes Kyoto’s cherry blossoms so special.

The journey begins at Ginkaku-ji, a Zen temple built in the late 15th century by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Though intended to be covered in silver leaf, the pavilion was left in its natural state, allowing its simplicity to blend harmoniously with the surrounding gardens. The temple’s meticulously raked sand garden, moss-covered grounds, and walking paths offer a perfect introduction to the aesthetic principles of Zen.

As we continue along the Philosopher’s Path, we pass several historic temples and shrines. Hōnen-in is a hidden retreat known for its thatched-roof gate, serene moss garden, and seasonal sand art, which changes throughout the year. Further along, Anraku-ji provides a glimpse into Kyoto’s deep Buddhist traditions, having served as a sanctuary for followers of the Pure Land sect. A short detour leads to Otoyo Shrine, an unusual Shinto shrine where guardian deities take the form of animals, including a rare mouse statue, an unexpected sight in Kyoto’s shrine culture.

The path continues south, leading to Nanzen-ji, a grand Zen temple complex famous for its massive wooden Sanmon Gate, which visitors can climb for panoramic views of Kyoto. Within the temple grounds, a striking red-brick Meiji-era aqueduct, part of the same Lake Biwa Canal project that gave rise to the Philosopher’s Path, adds an unexpected Western architectural element to the traditional temple setting.

Beyond temples, the Philosopher’s Path is lined with tea houses, traditional cafés, and artisan shops specializing in Kyoto’s famed Kyoto-yaki (Kiyomizu-yaki) ceramics. Several small pottery studios display hand-painted teacups, bowls, and matcha sets, reflecting the centuries-old craft traditions of Kyoto. Many of the cafés along the path serve Uji matcha, sourced from the nearby tea-growing region, often paired with seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) that complement the delicate bitterness of the tea.

Walking the Philosopher’s Path is an experience that changes with the seasons. In spring, the cherry blossoms form a soft pink tunnel over the canal, while in autumn, fiery maple leaves create a vibrant contrast against the temples and shrines. Even in quieter months, the timeless beauty of Kyoto’s landscape, combined with its rich history, makes this one of the most peaceful and rewarding walks in the city. This journey through temples, tea culture, handcrafted ceramics, and seasonal flavors offers a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s enduring traditions.

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🥚Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:26 Cream Puff Shop / Ginkakuji Matsubaya
01:23 Cherry Blossom Cream Puff
02:40 Philosopher's Walk / Cherry Blossom Trees
08:14 Extended Walk

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🥚Locations
⦁ Ginkakuji Matsubaya, Kyoto, Japan
銀閣寺まつばや, 京都市, 日本

⦁ Philosopher's Path, Kyoto, Japan
哲学の道, 京都市, 日本

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🥚Tamago's Gear
⦁ DJI Osmo Pocket 3
⦁ Canon EOS D Mark II
⦁ Sony FDR-AX700

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🥚 Disclaimers
⦁ Prices are calculated on date of publishing.
⦁ Prices can vary based on the seasons.

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#japan #japantravel #japanesefood #food #cherryblossom #sakura #kyoto