Travel from Takayama to Kamikochi

Hi all,
We will be leaving from Takayama early morning to go to Kamikochi. The plan is to spend the entire day in Kamikochi, come back to Takayama and then take the 6:40pm train heading to Kyoto and halt there at night.
Is this practical? By bus its 1.5 hrs to Kamikochi. Which bus can I take? What are the bus schedules? We are assuming 3-4 hours in Kamikochi is enough. Please help!

Thanks in advance.

I think it is possible. The bus journey between Takayama and Kamikochi requires a transfer at Hirayu Onsen. 3-4 hours might be enough for the fast paced travelers, but it is towards the minimum if you want to do some hiking and relaxation.

Thanks a lot Uji San. Do you happen to have the Nohi bus schedule from Takayama so we can plan better?

Also, can we reach Kamikochi via the Shin-Hodaka ropeway? Is this en-route to Kamikochi? How far is Shin-hodaka ropeway from Kamikochi?

Thanks a lot for your help.

bus between Takayama and Hirayu Onsen
http://www.nouhibus.co.jp/english/matsumoto.html

bus between Hirayu Onsen and Kamikochi
http://www.nouhibus.co.jp/english/kamikochi.html

can we reach Kamikochi via the Shin-Hodaka ropeway?

It is about a 4-5 hour hike from the upper station of the Shin-Hodaka Ropeway to Kamikochi. It is only possible when there is no snow. Proper hiking shoes are required. It is not an easy walk. Only recommended if you have prior hiking experience.

Other than hiking, there is no direct connection. YOu have to take the bus via Hirayu Onsen.