Rail pass requirements and logistic advice

Hi there,

I am helping my friend plan their trip to Japan in two weeks time. They have yet to purchase their passes.

Their itinerary is:

1) Arrive in Tokyo - stay for four nights
2) Travel to Takayama - stay for two nights
3) Travel to Hiroshima - stay for one night
4) Travel to Miyajima Island, stay for one night
5) Travel to Kyoto - stay for four nights
6) Travel back to Tokyo - stay for 3 nights and fly home

Some questions regarding the above:

• How long would it take from purchasing the JR railpass to arrive? Is there time between now and two weeks to allow for this?
• Is the JR railpass the most effective method for this route, and is everything above achievable using it?
• Would a two week or three week pass be more worthwhile? The trip is 2.5 weeks. 2 weeks would cover everything in between the beginning and end in Tokyo and we could activate as they leave for Takayama. Or is a three week pass more effective to allow and include for travel within Tokyo?

Any advice much appreciated!