As early as now, I'm planning for my Hanami(cherry blossom viewing) trip to Japan, particularly , Osaka and Kyoto.

Any hotels and places to recommend? Aside from cherry picked places , I'm an avid fan of uniquely designed buildings whether ancient or modern.
Appreciating your great responses in advance.

I have read that the park where Osaka castle sits is fabulous for hanami. You may also enjoy visiting the castle.

Ok, i searched a japanguide website. Its been very helpful with my research.

I will do a :
2 day trip to cover Kyoto,Nara and Himajima.
1 day trip to cover Hiroshima
1 day trip to Okayama
an overnite trip to Osaka


Kyoto:
Nijo-jo
Golden Pavilion
Gion- for geisha photos.

Nara:
Nara Deer Park
and Todaiji Temple

Himajima:
HImajima or White Heron Castle

Hiroshima:
Miyajima and peace museum

Okayama:
Black heron castle

Osaka:
Umeda Sky Building and Universal Studios
Find a hotel nearby Osaka Castle
Japan Mint Beareau(if available)

I hope my itinerary sounds okay.

The gardens around Himeji castle are spectacular with cherry blossoms.

What it sounds like is that you will be spending a lot of time on the train.

I don't know what/where Himajima is. I think you mean Himeji.

Oh yeah, its Himeji. Thanks mrwunrfl.

Yup its a train adventure for me. Ive done it in Tokyo. I want to do it one more time.

is this statement true?

"The city of Kyoto itself is ugly. It's just too compact, too much traffic, dirty and not that great, but the temples, as you can see, are great."

And that its better to stay overnite in Nara than in Kyoto.