Ever the optomist, I have decided decided to try and book a Japan trip and take advantage of the current lack of reservations. However, I cannot decide whether I should stay in Kyoto or Osaka when I am in the area. My itinerary is as follows:

Day 1 - arrive late Kyoto
Day 2 - Nara - evening in Osaka
Day 3 - Eastern Kyoto
Day 4 - Arashiyama
Day 5 - Himeya - Northern Kyoto
Day 6 - Leave early

At the moment, I do have CP Kyoto booked but I have heard it is actually not in a great position for what I want to do and when I look at Osaka it looks like a better hotel as ideally I would have more evenings in Osaka.

Is there anyone here that has been to both hotels and maybe knows the area a little able to give any advice about the pros and cons of each and what kind of commute times I could expect? Should I stick with Kyoto or should I go for Osaka?

TIA for any replies.