The Philosopher's Path

Today I am quietly sitting beside the gentle stream that runs along the centuries old Philosopher’s Path at the base of the mountains surrounding Kyoto. The morning began with a moderately paced bike ride up the base at the bottom of the forested mountains protecting the city.

Gradually making my way upward, I take in temple after temple along the route. The Philosopher’s Path begins at Gingaku-ji Temple and continues along past Honen-in, Otoyo Shrine, and Eikan-do Zenren-ji for approximately 4 km, ending at Nanzen-ji Temple.

The Philospher’s Path, Tetsugaku-no-michi, was so named after 20th-century Japanese philosopher and Kyoto University professor Nishida Kitaro took his daily meditation walks there. It is easy to see why. A gentle stream umbrella’s the route with cherry blossom, Japanese Maples and surrounds the path.

This morning, I am sitting here writing from a centuries old simple bench, listening to running water, surrounded by trees higher than the eye can see.

I churn out a poem about a cricket in my house.

Nishida Kitaro wrote….“If my heart can become pure and simple, like that of a child, I think there can probably be no greater happiness than this.”

It is easy to find zen and contemplate the poetry inspired by such a place of beauty.

I am hearing the songs of birds I’ve never heard before.

Small artisan shops and cafes line the stone paved street along the way.

Zen.