Hello again to all of you helpful people - OP here.

Here's the update:

Staying 12 days as that's what it took to get the kind of award tickets I wanted. Will be happy to change for fewer days, even with a change fee for the flights, but here's what I have:

Air Canada, Newark to Toronto to Narita, Executive First Class

Ritz Carlton Tokyo - 5 nights on Maarriott Rewards and cash upgrade to Club Level

Hyatt Regency Kyoto - 5 nights on Hyatt Points

I did an itinerary search on www.japan-guide.com and in the 12 day itinerary, they recommended finishing Kyoto and going to Hiroshima with a night in Miyajima. Then I assume I would travel back to Tokyo for the last night and travel home the next day.

So first of all, what do you all think about the suggestion? Any other recommendations? Second, if you agree, any idea of places to look into for lodging?

I can't thank you all enough - this is the reason I joined FlyerTalk so many years ago! I am constantly amazed by the generosity of strangers!