I had no problem getting around on trains and subways. Traveling by bus was a different story. First you had to make sure you got on the right bus. Then you had to have a clear idea where you were going because in order for the bus to stop, you had to press a button by your seat. On this trip to the Gion district I had no problem figuring out which bus to board at Kyoto station, but since I was unfamiliar with the city, I had no idea how far I had to ride. After a number of anxious minutes, the bus driver made an announcement that seemed to contain the word 'Gion', so I got off the bus.
On the way back to Kyoto Station the bus was quite crowded. And it got even more crowded at each stop (after this picture was taken).