I like the Tennoji area in Osaka for the more residential selection of stores like Ito Yokado and easy access to KIX. It probably wouldn't be great for a first time visitor who is going sightseeing around Osaka but could be good for those going towards Kyoto and Yoshino.

Haven't stayed in Kyoto in some time but last I visited, I stayed near Sanjo Keihan stop. I prefer staying in the lower buildings and less office building neighborhoods of Kyoto as I like the charm and makes me feel like I'm actually in Kyoto. If I'm paying for Kyoto prices then I want to enjoy the architecture.