If you can't afford to stay at the Westin while traveling to Kyoto, which not everyone can, but you still want an exceptionally good hotel with comfortable beds, English-speaking staff, and great food, I recommend the Kyoto Brighton Hotel. They also have a free shuttle that runs to the subway, which is a bonus. I stayed here both times when visiting Kyoto, and I don't regret it. If you can get a deal in the off-season, take it! If you have to visit Kyoto during Golden Week, be prepared to shell out the bucks for this place, though! (via Kyoto Brighton Hotel)