1st timer needs advice

[Dan0512]

Ok, I'm getting my itinerary together, but before I can make any final decisions, I need to know a little about some costs that will rise during the stay.

Say I plan on going to Yokohama and Hakone during my stay in Tokyo, then transfering to Osaka, where I would most likely visit Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and maybe Kobe. Then include subway transport for around ~10 days in Tokyo and Osaka. What would be the smartest way to pay for the costs? Would I be better off purchasing a JR rail pass, paying for each trip separately, or maybe a compination of both?

And how much should I expect to pay for food daily? I don't plan on visiting any fancy restaurants or such. I can live perfectly with fast food or stuff from the super market.

Thanks a lot for your help