We were very late in booking accommodation and, given it was cherry blossom, were very limited in our options. We stayed in a decent hotel for the first two nights and then a Ryokan for the third night.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei - This was a very comfortable hotel. Small rooms but perfectly sufficient. They had a separate baths (Sento) downstairs, which was fun, although please note that it is 'Illegal not to be naked!'

Ryokan Izuyasu - This was a more genuine Japanese experience. Beds on the floor, 11pm curfew, Japanese breakfast, separate showers/baths downstairs. The staff were very friendly and it was really convenient for the station.

If we were to return, we would probably aim to stay in a Ryokan in the Gion district.