Public Transport
Google maps works great in Japan for public transport, if you have data just ask for directions to Hakuba station and it will sort you out.

There's two routes from Osaka/Kyoto to Hakuba, the standard route via Nagoya, and the scenic route along the north-western coast. Both take about 5-6 hours and cost a similar amount (¥13,000-¥18,000), but we like to recommend people take the scenic route as it's the road less travelled and lets you see a bit more of the Japanese countryside.

The Scenic Route: Take the 'Thunderbird' express train from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto Station to Tsuruga Station. If possible, get seats on the right hand side to enjoy great views of the beautiful Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. At Tsuruga, transfer to the bullet train and ride that to Nagano Station. If it's your first time on a bullet train, be sure to enjoy the views and comfort as you ride at speeds of up to 260km/h (160mph).

At Nagano station, head to the East Exit and down the stairs to the bus interchange, and queue up at platform 26, which should have signs for the Alpico Bus service to Hakuba. The timetable is available here, the ride takes about an hour. Sometimes in the winter there's a desk with Alpico staff selling tickets for the bus, but if not you can purchase a ticket when you board. Get off the bus at Happo Bus Terminal. And if you haven't already, let us know by email or phone what time you'll be arriving in Hakuba, so one of the crew can pick you up at the station and drive you up to Starfall!
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Via Nagoya: Take the bullet train from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto Station to Nagoya. In Nagoya, transfer to the Shinano express train and ride that until you reach Matsumoto. Finally, transfer to the local Oito line train in Matsumoto, and enjoy a slow, rural train experience through the Japanese countryside through to Hakuba.
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PRivate taxi
The last option for direct transport from Osaka or Kyoto to Hakuba is a private taxi with Sakura Transfer. This option is the most convenient, as you can schedule it for whatever time best suits you. But it's the most expensive option, usually costing at least ¥20,000 per person. And you might be surprised to know that it usually takes longer than taking the trains, due to how impressively fast the bullet trains are in Japan. Most trips by car will take 6-7 hours depending on traffic and where you're starting your journey.

Sakura Transfer has a variety of different sized vehicles to suit your group. Be sure to consider your luggage when booking your transfer, if you're all coming with luggage and board bags a larger vehicle may be required.

Reservations are essential for this service, you can make a reservation via their website: SakuraTransfer.com