The Philosopher's Path, Temples and Shrines Kyoto, Japan

The approximately 2 kilometer/1.2 mile long path in the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district begins around Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and ends in the neighborhood of Nanzenji. A nasty rain ruined the last visit even though it was cherry blossom time, the best time to stroll this path making it a pleasure to revisit.

The path gets its name from one of Japan's most famous philosophers, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute.Temples, shrines, shops and restaurants line this beautiful walk, partially along a canal and it is almost always included in tours.