The standard luxury ryokan recommended for foreigners in Kyoto are Hiiragiya and Tarawaya. I have never stayed in either. It is worthwhile to stay in a ryokan but for me, one night is enough. Certainly no more than two. At least one of those offers the ability to book a room without dinner, I believe.

Kyoto is very possibly the most expensive place in Japan to experience a ryokan, but if that is all your itinerary permits, you might go for it. If you have more time consider adding a night in Hakone to stay at the ryokan discussed in this thread:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showt...ferrerid=14479