12 days in Japan. Where to go?

I am planning a trip to Japan, starting 10th april. Trip will last for 12 days.

Have plans to visit the following cities- Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Himeji, Okayama, Fukuoka/Hakata (not doing Kyoto this time, 'cos spent 1 week there before).

I realised that with 12 days, I can cover all these cities and still have a few days left. Any suggestions- which other nearby cities worth visiting? maybe Nagoya or Nagasaki??

Some basic info- I'm in my late-20s, female, travelling alone. Interested in traditional japanese structures/stuff and (modern city)shopping.. not so interested in onsen, theme parks.

Some suggestions please!! Thanks! :)

And one more question- do the special events for Nara 1300th anniversary only start on the 24th of April?

I recommend Yoshino and Hiroshima/Miyajima.

Kansai Region
http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1105.html

Chugoku Region
http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1106.html

Kyushu Region
http://www.japan-guide.com/list/e1108.html

If you want to be visiting the castle, I will recommend the Himeji Castle to go previously to construct it on April 12 because it cannot visit it on　the top.