I stayed in a small hostel called Bola Bola just outside of the main part of Kyoto. It was easily accessible via the train system (Uzimasa stop) they have there.
It was nice and cosy and the owners were really friendly. They have their own information leaflets that they have made up of the local attractions/sights and they are written in English. They also have a board of upcoming events, for example, when we were there, they told us about a local flea market at a temple which we visited.
They have a small lounge area with books and things and a small kitchen area to cook your own food if you want. We spent a week in Kyoto and did things off our own back without going with any tour guides.
Here is a link for the Guest House Bola Bola for you to check out:
Guest House Bola Bola
