KYOTO – YOTRIPP TRAVEL https://yotripp.com Travel and Travel Marketing Mon, 19 May 2025 18:20:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 5 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE THE HIDDEN CHARMS OF KYOTO https://yotripp.com/5-ways-to-experience-the-hidden-charms-of-kyoto/ https://yotripp.com/5-ways-to-experience-the-hidden-charms-of-kyoto/#respond Sun, 23 Jul 2023 13:02:50 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=1982

5 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE THE HIDDEN CHARMS OF KYOTO

Kyoto is a proud imperial city. Experiencing Kyoto is like taking a stroll through eleven centuries worth of ancient Japanese history concentrated at one location. So rich is Kyoto’s history and heritage; that even to this day, it houses over 20 percent of Japan’s national treasures.

Yet, Kyoto comes off as quite elusive to the inexperienced, unguided traveller. Just like any other place in Japan maybe. Underrated definitely, but not overpoweringly ‘wow’.

But that’s just something from the sloppy visitor, which of course, you are not. Kyoto’s beauty can need a little ‘finding’. But it is like magic unfolding before your eyes once you transition to becoming a thoughtful traveller who knows what Kyoto is all about.

Kyoto was once the home of Japan’s imperial court and although that’s something that makes up all Kyoto guide books, it is certainly not all that Kyoto was known for. The city was once the centre of traditional Japanese arts, crafts and religion. And the city’s aesthetics even today point to this history of music, dance and theatre, if only you know where to look.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

So if you’re on a vacation in Japan, here are 5 ways to experience the hidden charms of Kyoto.

Hidden Gems in Kyoto

01.

Temples & Shrines

Because the city was spared of Allied bombings during World War II, most of its monuments, temples and shrines still stand today. And that is quite something! Because there are more than 300 Shinto shrines and over 1700 Buddhist temples just in Kyoto. Many are hidden amid the modernity of its cityscapes. But spend some time here, go hunting and you’ll know that each one is possibly more beautiful than the last.

Kyoto’s temples are a little different from the temples you may have seen around the world. Through them, you get a glimpse of the Japan of the past, almost as soon as you enter one. Each temple here is not one structure but a series of buildings within a closed compound that inevitably houses a garden too. These elusive temples are worth hunting for, especially true if you want Kyoto to show you its own unique beauty, unseen by so many others.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

02.

Path of Philosophy

The Path of Philosophy or Philosopher’s Path is a mile-long sakura-lined pathway just begging for visitor footfall. Not only are its experiences and sights totally worth the hike, but the path is dotted with Kyoto’s top attractions along the way.

Important cultural sites such as the Gingkakuji Temple (Temple of the Silver Pavilion), the Ryoanji Temple and multiple other temples and shrines can be visited via slight deviations along the marked path. What’s more, there even a Manga museum for Manga lovers!

The Gingkakuji Temple is a must-visit purely for the pleasure of strolling through the surrounding ‘minimalist’ gardens, which were designed for meditative strolling by Kyoto’s famous landscape architect Sōami.

Want to know more about the Path of Philosophy? Find out more about the attractions along the path, their timings, their fees and all other relevant information in this ‘Path of Philosophy‘ article.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

03.

Backstreet Crafts

Kyoto has a rich history of arts and crafts. So much so, that long back, when the city was building itself, entire neighbourhoods were built upon around specific crafts where the country’s finest craftsmen for that trade could be found. Today, these neighbourhoods have dispersed, but their legacy still remains.

Though you may have to go on something quite like a treasure hunt, you can still find hidden gems if you know where to look. These hidden gems, namely workshops, are still found in the quiet, unglamorous backstreets of these historic neighbourhoods. Go hunting for anything and everything ranging from textile and silk goods, Japanese dolls, paper goods, woodblock prints, lacquerware and more.

It is quite an adventure meeting and talking to the descendants of craftsmen who have chosen to stay true to their family’s traditional crafts. Their work is the modern-day testimony to their legendary fame for artistry even today. They still maintain the refinement, tradition and elegance of the old.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

04.

Annual Matsuri

One of the best times to visit Kyoto is during their annual festivals, locally known as matsuri. Out of the many festivals of Kyoto, three are worth checking out. The Jidai, the Aoi and the Gion. Don’t miss these three Kyoto festivals if you are in Japan, even if it means juggling around your planned Kyoto itinerary just to fit them in.

Planning your itinerary for Kyoto to include experiencing these festivals is highly recommended since booking hotels for these times is expensive and is best done well in advance.

The Jidai festival is only about a century old. It is celebrated by thousands of Kyotoites who descend on the city in hordes to participate in it on October 22nd each year. The festival is a delight to visitors who have never experienced anything quite like it before. On the day of the festival, a theatrical procession snakes through the streets of Kyoto. Exotic local costumes from as far back as the 8th century (and as recent as the 19th century) are put on brilliant display here. If you love photography or you are an Instagrammer looking to build a travel-related audience, be sure to attend this festival. It can give you epic pics!

The Aoi Festival is a spring festival that makes its way to town on the 15th of May. And though it is still spring and the surrounds are still lovely and fresh, Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are unfortunately long gone by this time. During Aoi, the fun is truly on the streets. Hundreds of festival participants dress up in imperial courtier costumes and make their way to Shimogamo Shrine to pray for the city’s growth and prosperity. The Aoi is said to be one of the oldest surviving festivals in the world. It is believed to have started in the 6th century.

And then in July, on the 16th and 17th of July to be exact, Kyoto celebrates the Gion festival. Some thirty plus floats proceed through the streets of Kyoto to the entertainment of onlookers. The objective of the festival is also to pray for Kyoto’s wellbeing and prosperity. The festival was birthed during the 9th century when the city was gripped by a massive plague.

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05.

Cherry Blossoms or Sakura

Unfortunately, none of Kyoto’s best festivals coincides with its cherry blossoms. The best times to see Kyoto’s cherry blossoms in their full glory is actually April. And one of the best places to see and experience Kyoto’s cherry blossoms is the Philosopher’s Path or Path of Philosophy that we talked about earlier.

Cherry blossoms or sakura usually bloom in the last week of March and are best viewed between the 20th of March and the 14th of April. The first week of April is your best bet to catch the best of these blooms. If you wonder where you could admire these cherry blossoms? Below are our answers to the popular ‘where to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto’ question.

Cherry blossoms are best seen (apart from the Philosopher’s Path, which is the top recommendation) at Arashiyama, Keage Incline, Kodai-Ji Temple, Ninenzaka Street, Sannenzaka Street, Maruyama Park and Shirakawa Canal. That said, these are the more popular places for hanami (sakura viewing) and consequently are often crowded. If you prefer good sakura views minus the crowds, go for Takenaka Inari Shrine, Takase River, Yoshida-jinja Shrine, Shinyodo Temple, or Kokai-Komyoji Temple instead.

If you find yourself in Kyoto during spring, do not miss the Geisha spring dances (Geiko) and Temple Night illuminations.

Picture Courtesy:YOTRIPP via Canva Pro

Some Common Questions About Visiting Kyoto:

How to get to Kyoto from Tokyo?

The easiest way to get to Kyoto is to take the bullet train from Tokyo. It is a 3-hour journey. If you are looking to hit multiple locations across Japan, getting a Japan Rail Pass for the required duration works out easier and cheaper.

Where to shop in Kyoto?

Apart from the backstreet shops by heritage craftsmen (mentioned earlier), there are several places to shop in Kyoto. Kyoto is a well-known shopping district. The largest concentration of Japanese speciality stores is in the Gion district. But if you’re pressed for time, the Kyoto Handicraft Center offers the perfect one-stop-shop solution. (Heian Jingu Kita, Sakyo-Ku)

What are the best times to visit Kyoto?

If you wish to see cherry blossoms, the best time to visit Kyoto is in early April. If you want to experience Kyoto’s numerous festivals, you have to time your journey to the festival dates.

When is the Jidai Festival in Kyoto?

October 22 , each year.

When is the Aoi Festival in Kyoto?

May 15, each year.

When is the Gion Festival in Kyoto?

July 16 & 17, each year.

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]]> https://yotripp.com/5-ways-to-experience-the-hidden-charms-of-kyoto/feed/ 0 PHILOSOPHER’S PATH, KYOTO https://yotripp.com/philosophers-path-kyoto/ https://yotripp.com/philosophers-path-kyoto/#respond Sat, 22 Jul 2023 21:52:09 +0000 https://yotripp.com/?p=1743

PHILOSOPHER’S PATH, KYOTO

Once the seat of the imperial court, Kyoto is today a major tourist destination of Japan and its cultural capital. Many sites of Kyoto are collectively listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites as ‘The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto’.


Kyoto has stood witness to wars, fires, earthquakes and a lot of destruction throughout the years. But it has strongly built itself up and become a beautiful town whose gardens, temples, museums, palaces and people take you on a soulful journey of the country. In fact, it is said that the city escaped being a target for bombs during World War II owing to its exceptional historic value.

01.

Delight in Sakura or Cherry Blossoms

When you say ‘Japan’, the first thing that comes to mind is mostly ‘Cherry Blossoms’, and for good reason. The Cherry Blossom or ‘Sakura’ as it is known here holds a special place in Japanese culture and is unofficially considered as the country’s national flower. 

The cherry trees in Japan bloom only for a few days in spring and are one of the rare, must-see natural wonders of the world. Locals and tourists can enjoy cherry blossom viewing or ‘Hanami’ parties under the beautiful trees from the end of March to mid-April. The wonderful weather coupled with the perfect pink or white hues of more than 100 cherry tree varieties will make you fall in love with the outdoors.


The most popular spot for Hanami parties in Kyoto is Maruyama-koen Park and the Kyoto Gosho (Imperial Palace Park). There also exists a walkway known as the Philosopher’s Path. The Japanese philosopher and founder of the Kyoto School of Philosophy, Kitaro Nishida used this path as a meditation spot during his commute to Kyoto University. 


The popular cherry tree variety cultivated in Japan is the Somei Yoshino and most common varieties have 5 petal blossoms. You will also come across what are called Weeping Cherry Trees or ‘Shidarezakura’, thus named because of their flexible branches which bend and almost touch the ground.


The Sakura symbolize the fleeting nature of life and a visit to the cherry gardens of Japan certainly gets you pondering over the fragility and beauty of life.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by P. on Unsplash

02.

Find Peace at Zen Temples

On the south end of the Philosopher’s Path lies the famous Nanzenji temple, one of the most important Zen temples of the country. It is located at the base of the Higashiyama mountains and is the head temple of one school of the Rinzai sect, under Japanese Zen Buddhism. The area where the temple is built spreads across 800 metres in length and 500 metres in width. There are many sub-temples around the main Nanzenji temple.


Before gaining the status of a Zen temple, this building was used as a retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama. The palace was said to be haunted and witnessed spooky happenings. It was a Zen priest, Priest Fumon who was finally able to get rid of the ghostly spirit through meditation. This was how the Emperor himself turned to Zen Buddhism and converted his villa into a temple. 


The temple showcases Japan’s great civil engineering in the brick aqueduct or Suirokaku, built in Roman style, which was used to transport water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture. The iconic grand Sanmon entrance gate and the Hojo Gardens are famous spots within the temple land that offer great photo opportunities.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Rémi Bertogliati on Unsplash

03.

Get a Taste of Japanese Comics (Manga)

Discovering Japan is incomplete without including the famous comics that are a part and parcel of local culture. Known as ‘Manga’, these are quite a rage in the country as well as abroad. A testament to Manga popularity is the Kyoto International Manga Museum, which houses a collection of 300,000 items that include Japanese manga, foreign or translated manga and works of various Manga artists. 

The museum opened its doors in 2006 and regularly holds Manga related events to promote the development of Manga internationally. With multiple sections for children and adults, visitors can peruse as many books as they like.


The museum also holds items of important historic value like Japan’s first Manga or the country’s first Manga for children.

Japan has been blessed with abundant natural beauty. That, coupled with a rich, old culture makes a visit to this Asian country a treat for your eyes and stomach as well as for your soul.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Aleksandra Kurobe on Unsplash

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Kenshi Kingami on Unsplash

04.

What’s the History Behind the Name ‘Philosopher’s Path’ or ‘Path of Philosophy’?

Visit the Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto – FAQs & All You Need to Know

Philospher’s Path (哲学の道, Tetsugaku no michi) is a very famous walking trail in Kyoto, Japan. The path that runs along a canal, was the daily walking route of one of Japan’s most prolific philosophers Nishida Kitaro. He is said to have practiced medication along this beautiful cherry-tree lines path while on his way to Kyoto University. Today, the path offers some of the best cherry blossom viewing spots (hanami) in Japan, especially during the flowering season in April.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by David Emrich on Unsplash

05.

How Long is the Philosopher’s Path Kyoto? How Long Does it Take to Walk the Philosopher’s Path?

The Path of Philosophy or Tetsugaku no Michi is a 1.5km walking path that runs between Ginkaku-ji Temple in the north to Eikan-do Temple in the south. Though a brisk walk along the stone pathway should take you no more than 30 minutes, there are a number of hidden treasure that can distract you along the way, making you spend an easy couple of hours here. Medium-paced travellers who prefer guided tours, can take this 6-hour long half-day tour along the Philosopher’s Path.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Hyungman Jeon on Unsplash

06.

How to Get to Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto?

The Philosopher’s Path lies on the bus routes for the 204 and 93 numbered buses from Marutamachi Station, which is the closest train station here. If you come by bus, you must disembark at Kinrinshakomae Bus Stop and then walk for about 5 minutes to reach the path. If you are coming in from further away, the Karasuma Line runs from Kyoto Station to Marutamachi Station, making it the easiest and fastest way to get here.

You can start the walk from either of its two starting points, either walking southward from the Ginkakuji temple in the north or walking northward from the Nanzenji temple in the south. Bus lines 5,17 and 100 can get you close to Ginkaguji temple, while the Tozai subway line can get you to Keage Station, which is nearest to temple Nanzenji.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by David Klein on Unsplash

07.

What All Can I See Along the Philosopher’s Path?

There are a host of little detours along the Philosopher’s Path that take you to exciting new places worthy of your travel blogs and Instagram photos. Here’s a detailed list of places to see along the path. As seen here, there are several other tourist attractions within walking distance of the Philisopher’s Path as well.

Below are some of interesting points of interest along the Philiopher’s Path.

Map Courtesy: Japan-Guide.com

Picture Courtesy:Japan-Guide Original Photo

01a.

Hakusason-so Villa

Hakusason-so Villa or Hakusasonso Hashimoto Kansetsu Garden and Museumis a beautiful and peaceful green space very close to the Gingkakuji Temple in the north, where you would be expected to enter the philosopher’s path. This former home and studio of famous Japanese painter Hashimoto Kansetsu is now a museum that displays his Japanese-style paintings (Nihonga). 

Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00PM

Entry Fee: 1000 Yen

Picture Courtesy:WIKIMEDIA COMMONS: 663highland

02B.

Gingkakuji Temple

As you head out of the relative quiet of Hakusasonso Villa, you will notice the rush of people making their way to Gingkakuji Temple. The stretch of path that leads up to the temple is a bit of an uphill climb, but definitely well worth the time and effort. Gingkakuji Temple or the Silver Pavillion was built by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa (1436 –1490) as a complement to his grandfather’s Kinkaku-ji Temple or the famous Golden Temple. 

Timings: 8:30AM to 5:00PM (March to November and 9AM to 4:30PM (December to February)
Entry Fee: 500 Yen

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Jmhullot

03c.

Honen-In Temple

Follow the signs into the woods to find the hidden gem Honen-in Temple. As you enter the gates and pass between two mounds of white sand (known to purify the mind), you feel as if you’ve entered a magical, secret garden that few know about. The temple, founded in 1680, is named after the priest Honen, who devoted his whole life to seeking salvation.

Timing: 6AM to 4PM

Entry Fee: None

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Cun Cun

04d.

Nishida Kitaro’s Poem Stone

As you leave Honen-In temple and rejoin the Philosopher’s Path, just beside the canal lies Nishida Kitaro’s Poem Stone. Etched on the stone is a short poem by Japan’s famous philosopher Nishida Kitaro. Literally translated, the poem reads, “People are people and I will be myself, regardless, the path I follow, I will continue to follow on.”

Picture Courtesy:Pinterest: ClarasCompass.com

05e.

Emperor Reizei’s Tomb

You can easily miss this grey stone gate on your left as you walk along the Philosopher’s Path as this tomb is quite a bit further away from the usual route. Though there is not much to see and do if you come here, this is a beautiful, tranquil place to take a few good photos. Emperor Reizei was known to be a mad king who only reigned in name (his uncle being the acting regent) for the short period between 967 and 969. 

Picture Courtesy:SnappyGoat Creative Commons

06f.

Otoyo-jinja Shrine

Next along the path is Otoyo-jinja Shrine, just follow the signposts over a bridge to get there. The shrine is dedicated to the Japanese God Okuninushi and has mice guarding the shrine’s entrance, so you definitely won’t miss it. The shrine gets a lot of footfall during the year of the Rat, due to stories and legends that have been passed down generations, stories that tell of the kindness and intelligence of the rats that saved Okuninushi’s life.


Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: KENPEI

07g.

Koun-ji Temple

As you get back on the Philosopher’s Path and walk a little further, you will see the tall, silver roofs belonging to Kuon-ji Temple. If you get here in November, you will also get to see a beautiful garden that is only open to the public for a few weeks. This is an active temple where you can do chores, learn Zen philosophies and even partake in meditation practices.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Yoshio Kohara

08h.

Eikan-do Temple

Eikan-do Temple is a beautiful temple complex nestled in thick, green woods. If you are keenly interested in Japanese architecture or are fascinated with the peace and calm of these Japanese woods, you can easily spend an hour or more here. The vast temple complex consists of buildings and gardens and even a temple hospital, along with various Buddha statues and more. There are a lot of steps to climb up and down, but the breathtaking views of Kyoto from here are well worth it.

Timings: 9AM to 4PM

Entry Fee: 600 Yen

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Zairon

Are There Any Cafes & Restaurants Along the Philosopher’s Path?

The Philosopher’s Path is not just a walkway taking you towards peace and philosophy. There are several great hangouts along the path where you can take a break and grab a bite. Just opposite Nishida Kitaro’s Poem Stone is the Pomme Café. The small cafe offers a wide range of drinks and snacks, including cookies and cakes. The cafe is open from 12:00PM to 6:00PM and is closed on Wednesdays in addition to two Tuesdays each month (2nd & 3rd).

Kisaki Tofu Restaurant is a great traditional-food lunch place along the Philosopher’s Path. Famous for its tofu and yuba, Kisaki, with its several vegetarian options, is a delight for vegetarians. Kisaki is open from 11:00AM to 9:00PM and is generally closed on Wednesdays. If you plan on going there for dinner, get there early, as the last orders of the day are taken at 7:30PM.

Picture Courtesy:Wikimedia Commons: Donatingpictures

What Other Experiences Can I Enjoy Along the Philosopher’s Path?

If you are here just for half a day and would like a quick, expert-guided trip along the Philosopher’s Path, you can approach the Ebisuya rickshaw company, right by the Ginkakuji temple. For a cost of 9000 Yen, you get a 30-minute rickshaw ride that takes you to all the important sites along the Philosopher’s Path.

Alternatively, a leisurely stroll along the path not just takes you to the various historical and spiritual landmarks along the way, but also lets you soak in on Kyoto’s culture. Along the path, you’ll find several galleries and shops selling art, antiques, crafts and even kimonos, all manned by super-friendly people. Make friends as you shop, make friends as you go.

Picture Courtesy:Photo by Svetlana Gumerova on Unsplash

Apart from the Philosopher’s Path, there is lots to see and do in Kyoto. Peek into the historic geisha culture, check out the local palaces, and more while you’re here. For some extraordinary experiences, try experiencing an authentic tea ceremony. Kyoto-style, or even take a walking tour with the last samurai. Do not rush your visit to Kyoto. Take your time, spend a few days here and savour the magic of this beautiful Japanese city.

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