Where to stay Osaka or Kyoto?

I am planning a trip to Japan on Easter. I would basically like to see Kyoto. Should I stay (with kids) in Osaka and from there do day trips to Kyoto, Nara Kobe or stay in Kyoto and do the trips from there. Any advice will be great since never been to Japan. Also what are good places to stay?

I have stayed in Kyoto twice and have not regretted it. Much more pleasant. I highly, highly recommend the Hotel Mume, even with kids. Fabulous boutique hotel located in Gion district. Close to all the sites and close to Kyoto Station. Only 7 rooms so book far in advance. #1Hotel in Japan by tripadvisor.

There are a few things to consider whether you wanna stay in Osaka or Kyoto : 1. have u been to Osaka/ Kyoto before 2. how old are your kids 3. how many of you are travelling. I agree totally with Philly Cheese that a stay in Kyoto is enjoyable (I spent 5 days all in Kyoto last May). Kyoto is scenic with lots of old historic Japanese stuff to explore (Shrines, Temples, Geisha stree...) and April is the cherry blossom season. However, there isn't much 'kid stuff' - i mean for young kids, as mainly sight-seeing. It is best to explore the city by public transport, bike or foot. Quite a lot of walking. If your kids are too young, they may not be able to appreciate the beauty of it and could be impatient. Osaka will be a better choice with kids - there are quite a no. of places for them: Kaiyukan (one of the world's largest aquarium & zoo), Hep Five, Jopolis (Sega amusement park)....

You may wanna stay in Osaka - take 1 day trip to Kyoto (visit Gion area, Kiyomizu-dera temple and Golden Pavillion), 1 day to Kobe (the famous Kobe steak), and Nara (0.5 days) for its famous deer garden. It all depends how many days you wanna stay. In Osaka alone, you could easily spend 3 days with kids around... hope it helps.

I think you should really stop thinking go to Japan this Easter!

What about two days in Tokyo and three days in Kyoto? Is it feasible bearing in mind the distance, or can it be accessed quickly by bullet train? Am I expecting to do too much in a five days visit to Japan? Advice would be appreciated.