1. Kyoto is a beautiful but very spread out city. I would suggest staying near Gion because it is close to both the modern and old Kyoto. I've stayed at APA Gion and although it is small, it is good for the price and location. 2. The Sodoh is an Italian restaurant inside a beautiful Japanese garden and building. Only 1500 yen for a full course menu. Would definitely suggest if you are taking a break from Japanese food. 3. My favorite walk is the route up to 清水寺 Kiyomizu-dera. One of our favorite dessert stores is 普門庵 and also a Japanese styled Starbucks at 二条板 with tatami. 4. Yasui Konpiragu - a temple where you make a wish by going through a giant rock and sticking your blessings onto the rock 5. Gion Shirakawa - a beautiful street with a small river running through it and stores on the side. A famous one is Pass the Baton and the ice store next to it.