The cherry-lined lane about 2 km long, along the canal from Lake Biwa.It runs between Ginkakuji-michi and Nyakuoji Bridge, passing by Ho-nen-in Temple.
You can enjoy walking here through the year.
Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green and pretty dances of fireflies in early summer, red leaves in autumn, and wabi (the beauty to be found in poverty and simplicity) in winter... they are all waiting for you.
Famous Philosopher Dr. Kitaro Nishida used to walk here contemplatingly, or discussing with his friends and students. That's why people came to call it Philosohers' Lane.
It must be an influence of Dr. Nishida, I think, that doves and dogs playing along the lane look very thoughtful.
As is often the case with popular tourist spots, some old men long for the much more elegant times before the lane got famous. But standing in the great enough elegance of today, it's nearly impossible to imagine the greater elegance of the past.
More than 100 hours walk (plus adequate recess) from Tokyo.
Rough Map