Coming to Kyoto for the first time? Perhaps a way to begin is by checking general information sites before moving on to accommodation and transportation. Most sites will have both Japanese and English pages. Start here:
http://www.pref.kyoto.jp/visitkyoto/en/info_required/travel_info/info_offices/
http://www.city.kyoto.jp/koho/eng/
http://www.kyotoguide.com/ver2/useful/useful-tourist.htm
http://www.tripadvisor.in/AllReviews-g298564-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html