Ideas for things to do while in Japan over New Years (already have a general itinerary)?

Question

I was just looking for general input/ideas on what to do (eat, sightsee, shop, culture etc.) on my upcoming trip to Japan. Keep in mind that it's over the New Year's time period so a lot of normal attractions will likely be closed. We will be in Tokyo from 12/28-1/1, and staying in Osaka from 1/1-1/5 and then back in Tokyo for one night before coming back to the U.S. While in Osaka we plan to take day trips to probably 2 of the 3 of Kyoto, Kobe and Nara as I've read they're all less than a couple hours train ride away.
We're both young and active, like shopping, eating, and some nightlife, though we're no party animals, interested in "normal" sightseeing activities as well as things more unusual, though again I suspect a lot of the normal tourist attractions will be closed. We plan on going to a temple New Years. We don't have tight financial constraints, don't want to nec. eat $200 meals or shop at Chanel, but we've got a fairly liberal budget.
Thanks for the help

Answer 1

New Years or New Years Eve? Asakusa's Senso-ji is a great place to go New Year's Eve. There are tons of food stalls and lots of people. Very festive.

It seems like your itinerary is already fairly set. Temples and Shrines will be your best bet for sightseeing. So in Tokyo head to:

Senso-ji in Asakusa.
Meiji Shrine in Harajuku
Zojo-ji in Hammatscho
Sengaku-ji in Shinagawa which has the graves of the 47 Ronin

You might go to Kamakura for a daytrip like #1 suggested.

Answer 2

Go to hatsumode at Kamakura. Nara is well, interesting at New Year's because the garbage collectors aren't working so the deer enjoy foraging in the garbage cans. Himeji castle is definitely worth a visit.

Answer 3

No, you will be considered 19 until you turn 20 in June.

Answer 4

Goto Tokyo The MADDEST PLACE EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!