I agree that Tokyo & Osaka are better for camera window shopping, especially for used cameras. Bic Camera opened a megastore near JR Kyoto Station last summer, which should have everything new under the sun, and might have a small used section.
As for non-camera things to see, there is much. It may be helpful to read some before you go to get a feel of the layout of the city and what you might want to see. Kyoto is rich in temples and shrines, though some visitors get bored after the 3rd or 4th one. If you're travelling with children, especially, you might want to find some less-ancient sights to see.
The JTB (Japan Travel Bureau) pocket guides are very good. "Must-See In Kyoto" gives you a nice historical/cultural overview and enough info about the premier sights, both modern and old, without burying you in detail. And it will fit in a pocket.
The eastern side of town has a large concentration of top-draw sights. Most are popular for good reason, and are well worth the crowds. My must-see list is all in the east, Higashiyama, and goes like this:
1. Kiyomizudera: if you only see one temple, it should be this: one of the oldest temples standing, breathtaking architecture and views; approach or leave through Sennenzaka, a narrow cobblestone street lined with traditional shops
2. Ginkakuji (Silver Pavillion): ancient, unlike the Golden Pavillion, and a very poignant, inward-looking response to raging civil wars and destruction in medieval Kyoto; located at the head of Tetsugaku-no-michi (Philosopher's Path)
3. Honen-In: further south on Tetsugaku-no-michi, my favorite temple, not so well known and relatively quiet; the head priest loves photography and hosted a Dennis Hopper photo exhibition some years back
4. Nanzenji: south of the end of Tetsugaku-no-michi; epic gate, romanesque acqueduct way back in the complex
5. Gion: narrow alleys, curtained entrances, geisha's wooden geta clacking on cobblestones
One day in Higashiyama is hectic. If you can spend 2 days there, you'll see much and not feel too rushed.
Day 1: Walk through Gion, take Shijidori St across the Kamo River into Maruyama Park, then head south for a longish walk or taxi to Kiyomizudera. Take Sennenzaka when leaving Kiyomizudera and stroll amongst the shops.
Day 2: Testsugaku-no-michi: start at Ginkakuji, then stroll south along the path to Honen-in. The path has lots of shops and crafts atelier. Nanzenji is a very long walk south from Honen-in, so a short taxi ride might help.
There's much, much more, if you have more time and maybe patience. The famous rock garden at Ryoanji, the cool anti-ninja devices at Nijo Castle, the 1001 Kannon statues at Sanjusangendo. Ginkakuji, the Golden Pavillion, has a gold-covered roof. The Imperial Palace is vast and stark, luxurious only in relative terms. Daitokuji in the north is a wonderful temple complex. And if the old stuff starts to bore you, there's plenty of modernity and shopping around Kyoto Station and midtown (Shijo-Kawaramachi).
Public transportation, taxis and your feet are all you need. If you're adventurous and want to cycle, the Kyoto Cycling Tour Project, near Kyoto Station, rents decent bicycles by the day.
Let us know how your trip goes!
PB
