I will be there at the same time, going to the same cities in addition to Hiroshima, the Alps (Nagano), Sado Island, and Aizu Wakamatsu. In my case it would be prohibitive not to go by rail pass. As Dave says, it would is difficult to advise you until to you research an itinerary.

It is very likely that a 7-day JR Pass will save you money if you are flying in/out of Nagoya and plan to visit both Tokyo and Kyoto. Of course, you'd need to fit all your long distance journeys within 7 days. Post an itinerary for further comments.

Rail pass would be a good buy as although the Japanese rail system is awesome it is not cheap.

My advise would be a day trip from Kyoto to Nara (original capital of Japan) great temples and great scenery.

While in Kyoto Kinkakuji temple is a must see!!!!

Have a great trip (please remember rail pass is not valid on underground ect in Tokyo so plan how long your buying your pass for eg if your spending a week in Tokyo dont pay for it while your there)

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