Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka-Tokyo

Hi Guys,

Would need some help for my first trip to Japan.
30Dec - Tokyo to Kyoto
31Dec - Kyoto to Osaka
1Jan - Osaka (Day trip to Kobe or Nara) - any advice which has more shops open during the new year?
2Jan - Osaka to Tokyo

Any advice between Kobe and Nara, which has more shops open during the new year?
Is it possible to go both Kobe and Nara in one day?
Is there any shops and restaurant open in Osaka on 31st Jan evening?

If I am getting the 7days JR Pass, how do i go about the book the tickets? Will the shinkansen be fully book? I will be in Tokyo on 27Dec so can I book my shinkansen ticket for my Kyoto and Osaka trip first?

Thanks in advance!

JR Pass. You buy a voucher in your home country. When you arrive at the airport, you exchange it for the actual pass. You can get Shinkansen tickets at the same time.
As I recall, almost all things are closed on Jan. 1 except big hotels. You can eat at their restaurants.
Shops? People go to Nara to visit temples, not to shop.

Is there any shops and restaurant open in Osaka on 31st Jan evening?

31st Jan: Yes
31st Dec: Most no
1st Jan: all no
2nd Jan-3rd Jan: New year sale

You can make train seat reservation through a local travel agent. You can buy the JR Pass through them too.