non-language references

Enroll your self at https://step.state.gov/step/ for emergency situatiions in Japan.

Map from hotel in Kyoto to shopping mall " イオン”　and  Toji temple.

Map from Nishiki Market to Gion Corner

http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/en.html  Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/  They provide information and maps for free.  E-mail them to get some maps, lodging information, etc.

http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/regional/kyoto/kyotoekishuhen.html  Around Kyoto Station area where our hotel is.

http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/timelines/japan_timeline.htm   At-a-glace time line for a quick reference

http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/special/japan_1000ce_samurai.htm  Overview of Samurai feudal governments

http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/timelines/japan_modern_timeline.htm  a quick survey of Japanese history from about 1600 to the near present

http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/main_pop/ps/ps_japan.htm   Representative Japanese primary sources in English translation

http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/buddhism.shtml  Your reference on Japanese Buddhist and Shinto iconography. You will see many of them in Japan.
Key words: Kannon Bosatsu,  Jizo Bosatsu,  Hachi Bushū (Eight Deva Guardians of Buddhism),  Inari (fox),   Komainu (Shishi Lions),

 http://www.hyperdia.com/en/  If you are planning to travel on your own, here is the train search site: