I would go to the JR Travel Service Center to do the exchange for the JR Pass (on day 0 you would validate it for days 4-10, or whatever) and get the Suica + N'Ex thing.

But also to see if they can help with Kyoto lodging. They should be able to help.

You could also try calling JTB before you leave to see if they can get reservations for you in Kyoto.

Use the Travel Service Center instead of the Ticket Office, I mean. They have both at JR Narita Airport station, according to:
http://www.japanrailpass.net/eng/en009.html

thanks for the info, mara. I think i read that it's better to stay near osaka station (vs. osaka shin stn) since there's more to do there. that japan-guide site is useful. Mrwunrfl, JTB didn't have any Kyoto rooms either; I got the rail voucher from them earlier today and asked. I'm leery of finding something at the last minute since it seems hopeless now.. though I'm sure there are ryokan I don't even know about w/ vacancy. Or maybe not.

There is a tourist info station in Kyoto station that will also help with same day hotel reservations. Others have used them with success before.

You can try this site for ryokans in and around Kyoto. I have used them before with success. Hope its not too late.

http://www.japaneseguesthouses.com/db/kyoto/index.htm


Also good for Kyoto info and hotel names and current Kyoto news.
You may be in time for the Yoko Festival

http://kaiwai.city.kyoto.jp/raku/mod...lish/index.php

Aloha!