From Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo
By Train
Take the super express “Shinkansen” from Shin-Osaka to Nagoya. Then transfer to the “Shinano” limited express to Matsumoto where you can get on the “Azusa” or local “Oito line” to Hakuba. (about 5 hours)
*Click here to see “From Nagoya” section for more details.
**to calculate exact train times, fares and alternate routes check out; http://www.jorudan.co.jp/english/norikae/e-norikeyin.html
By Bus
Take the “Alpico” bus from Osaka to Matsumoto where you can transfer to train or another bus to Hakuba.
Check out the following sight for details; http://www.alpico.co.jp/access/express/matsumoto_osaka/index_e.html
Or, “Sunshine Tours” and “Travex Tours” offer direct buses from Kansai to Hakuba station and the Happo bus terminal. These depart from Shin-Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe and have various pick up points along the way. With reasonable fairs, starting from 4300yen (one-way), 8500yen (return) these are well-worth looking into!!
Check out their websites for details;
http://www.sunshinetour.co.jp/ski-bus/kansai-hakuba/
http://www.travex.co.jp/
or call them at;
Sunshine Tours: 06-6344-3077
Travex Tours: 03-6233-1720