Beautiful design. Everything is spotless and clean. The staff is super friendly and the food is great. By far my favourite place to stay in Kyoto.

This is a local liquor store that has been here since before I was born, offering not only alcohol but also rice, tobacco, and other daily necessities. The owner, who is always there in the mornings and afternoons, is a very friendly and wonderful person. You can buy and drink inside the store, and smoking is allowed as well. I often see people gathering to enjoy a drink, smoke, and have casual conversations with the owner. This kind of super-local, cozy atmosphere is one of my favorite things about the place.

Kyoto's summers are famously hot, but if you take the Eizan Railway and get off at Yase-Hieizanguchi Station, you'll find a spot along the Takano river where you can cool off, enjoy a barbecue, or relax by the water with a drink and read. This spot is particularly recommended for those staying in Kyoto long-term rather than for short-term tourists.

Small yakitori restaurant. Mika is the chef and she knows how to get your stomach full in style.  Really really good cuisine, cool ambiance, unexpected reggae playlist. 

Koto In zen temple. Peaceful, luxurious, out of time.