I was wondering the difference between the two words since both mean to walk.
When to use verb 歩きます and when to use 散歩します。
Japanese Language Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for students, teachers, and linguists wanting to discuss the finer points of the Japanese language. It only takes a minute to sign up.
Sign up to join this communityThe verb 散歩する is equivalent to the English term "take a walk". That is, 散歩 is more of a recreational activity, as opposed to it simply being a means to get from one place to another. 歩く is a general term for walking.
From dictionary.goo.co.jp:
気晴らしや健康などのために、ぶらぶら歩くこと。散策。「公園を―する」
To leisurely walk for recreation or for health. A stroll. "_ through the park"
The 散 of 散歩 is also a clue as to how it's different:
散る・散らす
散らかる・散らかす
⇒ ばらばらになる・する ⇒ ぶらぶら(と)歩く ≒ 当てもなく歩く