Osaka is a great location because it’s right in the center of Kyoto and Nara and you can easily get to both by train. On top of that Osaka is know for it’s amazing food. I might be partial because I lived there, but I think it’s a great option for someone on a short trip. Osaka has a great nightlife and really is a great second best to Tokyo. If you are into historical, you must see Daibutsu in Nara and then spend several days in Kyoto. You can actually see quite a bit in one day. I recommend Kiyomizudera and Ginkakuji.

I really would spend my time in the Kansai (Osaka) area for history.

Before you go, look into getting a Japan Rail pass. You can then take the Bullet train all over Japan. That makes Kyoto only ten minutes from Osaka and Tokyo only three hours. You could also go to Himeji in only one hour and it has one of the most beautifully preserved castles in Japan.

Okay, I could go on and on. I had a lot of friends visit when I lived there so feel free to ask me any questions if you like.