Osaka to Philosopher's Path and Kiyomizu-dera: Day trip

A timeless Kyoto walk celebrated for cherry blossoms, slow wandering, and understated beauty. Start your exploration with a gentle walk along the Philosopher’s Path, one of Kyoto’s most beloved cherry blossom routes. The flat, canal-side path is ideal for slow wandering, with blossoms forming a soft canopy overhead in spring. Budget around an hour to enjoy the scenery before continuing to nearby Ginkaku-ji. Known in English as the ‘Silver Pavilion’, this temple’s moss gardens and raked sand courtyard provide a striking contrast to the blossoms, showcasing Kyoto’s refined aesthetic. This pairing balances natural beauty with cultural depth, setting the tone for the rest of your day.

A dramatic hillside temple offering sweeping views across Kyoto and layers of seasonal color. Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera via the gently sloping streets of Higashiyama, where traditional townhouses and souvenir shops create a classic Kyoto atmosphere. Inside the UNESCO-listed temple complex, head straight to the famous wooden veranda for expansive city views, especially striking during cherry blossom season. Afterward, explore the Otowa Waterfall and smaller halls scattered across the grounds. This two hours two allows for plenty of time to explore comfortably and enjoy the scenery without rushing. Visitors should note that tickets to the temple complex will need to be purchased separately.