Definitely go to Nara....it is a place you should not miss. Kyoto is also wonderful, and there are so many places to see there.

If you speak a littel Japanese or are otherwise a world traveler already, then a ryokan would be good if you can find one that is not too expensive if that matters to you. Many allow you to sleep on a futon on the floor, so the basketball boyfriend might find it comforting too.

have fun