Originally Posted by
abmj-jr
All those one day/night stays in different locations seem very wearing and an inefficient way to see the country.
Absolutely agree.
If I were the OP, I might spend the first night in Osaka. Second night in Hiroshima (or maybe on Miyajima, since it looks like a Monday, which means better prices and availability on the island). Then all subsequent nights in Kyoto.
As for the Rail pass. I haven't done the sums. It might not be worth it ...
If the OP is spending his whole time in Chugoku and Kansai, the JR West pass would be enough.