Kyoto trip 2024 from Sept to Nov >w<

I’ll be studying at a Japanese language school for foreigners along with staying in a share house with other students. It was the cheapest option that allowed my tuition and lodging to be covered for the entirety of my trip.

My school counselor recommend I fly into Osaka (KIX) which is fine because more places I get to explore hehe

Background: I will be in school Monday through Friday but want to maximize exploring all the prefectures I can

1) WhatsApp is the most ideal type of traveling card/pass ?

I do plan on going out of Kyoto. There is so much more to Japan I’ve come to discover through social media. So what would be the best travel card for me to get knowing I’ll be exploring four days out of the week.

2) For those who have traveled to Japan, where would you recommend to do a currency exchange?

3) Can someone explain to me the differences between the cities and prefectures? This low key still confuses me o(TヘTo)

4) Has anyone bought souviners and then had them shipped back to their home country whilst still in Japan? If so, how was that process and how long did it take for your package to arrive? I live in the US

5) What style of shoe or brand do you recommend for all the walking that is about to happen haha?

Any other tips and/or advice are greatly appreciated!!!