Helpful Links

Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO): http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/
Kyoto Convention Bureau: http://web.kyoto-inet.or.jp/org/hellokcb/eng/index-e.htm
Kyoto City Tourism and Cultural Information: http://raku.city.kyoto.jp/sight_e.phtml
Kyoto Travel Guide: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html
Kansai Area Travel Guide: http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1105.html
Kansai International Airport (KIX): http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/english/index.htm

Weather

Visitors to Kyoto in February should expect temperatures in the range of approximately 13C (high) to -2C (low) . Snowfall is not uncommon in February in Kyoto.

Power

The Kyoto area uses 100V AC/60Hz.
Devices that take 110V AC will work fine.
The shape of power outlets http://kropla.com/!ab.htm is identical

those used in the United States (two blades in parallel) except most outlets do not have third hole for a ground pin.

Shopping/Dining/Currency

Most small shops, taxicabs and train stations do not accept credit cards.
It is advised to carry some JPY cash.
There is no tipping habit in Japan.
VAT of 5% will be added to every purchase you make.
1USD = 115JPY ; 1EUR = 130JPY (roughly)
Most bank ATMs do not take Cirrus/Plus bank cards for withdrawal.
Exceptions are Citibank ATMs and ATMs at post offices.
Citibank ATMs are located in Kansai International Airport (KIX). Open 24 hrs.
List of Citibank branches in Kyoto area. http://www.citibank.com/locations/ap/jp/jp/kyoto/kyoto_br.htm

Cellphones

The Japanese cellphone network is not compatible with GSM.
CDMA is in service, however, if you need a cellphone,
(1) rent it at the airport or (2) buy prepaid-card phones at a convenience store.