Originally Posted by
LapLap
For two?
I cannot think of one Ryokan within Tokyo or Kyoto where you would get a great Ryokan experience for ¥20,000, never mind ¥10,000 (Ryokan prices are generally per person)
The only solid suggestion I have for you is to go to Kurama Onsen on the outskirts of Kyoto. It's just 30 minutes and a ¥410 train trip from Demachiyanagi station in Kyoto - so no need to compromise your itinerary.
Or reduce your hotel budget for other nights within Tokyo and Kyoto and splurge out on one of Kyoto's better establishments - like the the Hiiragiya or Tawaraya.
I agree that $200 is too limited a budget. I'd find it depressing staying in a Ryokan in that category. The point (for me) of staying in a Ryokan is spending time there and enjoying the whole experience, including dinner. I'd rather spend $100 in a business hotel and spend more time outside the hotel.
I will say that there are decent Ryokan in Kyoto that are less expensive (though not as nice) as the Hiiragiya or Tawaraya. You just won't come close for $100/person. You might have a better shot with someplace in Hokkaido since you're going to be there anyway.