Uber in Kyoto interfaces with MK Taxis, so this is an alternative for anyone worried about taxi drivers not knowing the location of PH Kyoto. Just be aware that it is not a pre-quoted service (the taxi will still run the meter, then the rider can either pay the driver directly or have the driver charge via Uber). This does have the bonus of being eligible for Uber Rewards now. However, one disadvantage from Kyoto Station is that the Uber-directed pickup point is across the street on the south side of the station, on Karasuma Dori opposite the Kyoto Avanti building. Here's a google maps pin of the approximate location: https://www.google.com/maps/place/34°59'00.4"N+135°45'35.0"E/ Also, expect to wait 5+ minutes for pickup.

Initial impression of PH Kyoto - hard product is stunning. I particularly like the use of a lot of natural wood which makes the decor feel more Japanese to me than, say, the FS. Unquestionably a better redemption than the HR, but we knew that already. Criticisms about the lack of public guest space on the property are valid, however.

Also, IMO the western breakfast in the bistro is just fine. While there isn't much variety and all hot food is order-only, the quality is very high (pastries are made in-house and were all very good - there's a pear tartlet in particular that is decadent) and guests are allowed to order multiple items off the hot food menu.

Location could be the determining factor for some. I'd walked nearby the hotel area on past visits to Kyoto but I didn't realize exactly how touristy the area around Hokan-ji is (to put it in perspective, there is a Donguri Republic maybe 100 feet from the hotel entrance). It was tough enough to navigate the street on a weekday afternoon - assume it will just be a zoo on weekends. That said, I think the location is pretty convenient; Yasaka Shrine is less than a 10-minute walk away so everything in that area is easy to access.