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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Central Honshu, Japan

Air Travel

Major Airports & Connections

Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) are Japan's main international gateways. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) near Nagoya provides convenient access to Matsumoto by train.

Airport Connectivity

  • Matsumoto Airport (MMJ): A small regional airport with limited domestic flights. Not suitable for international arrivals directly from overseas.
  • No direct international flights operate to MMJ. Travelers must fly into NRT, HND, or NGO, then connect to Matsumoto by train or bus.
  • Flight prices fluctuate significantly with the season. Peak prices are during cherry blossom season, Golden Week, summer holidays, and New Year's.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

NRT, HND, and NGO are modern international airports with comprehensive facilities: currency exchange, shops, restaurants, baggage services, and tourist information centers. Free Wi-Fi access is available.

Transfer Options to Matsumoto

  • From Tokyo (NRT/HND): Take Narita Express (N'EX) or Keikyu Line/Tokyo Monorail to Shinjuku Station, then the Limited Express Azusa train directly to Matsumoto Station. The Japan Rail Pass covers this route.
  • From Tokyo: Direct highway buses from Shinjuku Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku) to Matsumoto Bus Terminal. Generally cheaper than the train.
  • From Nagoya (NGO): Take the Meitetsu Line from NGO to Nagoya Station, then the Limited Express Shinano train directly to Matsumoto Station.

Booking Flights

Booking flights several months in advance is recommended for peak travel periods to secure better rates.

Price Seasons

Off-peak seasons generally offer lower fares: late January-February, late May-early June, late September. Consider using Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for good deals.

Airport Arrival

For international flights, arrive at major airports (NRT, HND, NGO) at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. For domestic flights, 1-2 hours is usually sufficient.

Transit Links

Train Services

  • JR Limited Express Azusa: Connects Matsumoto directly to Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. Frequent and comfortable.
  • JR Limited Express Shinano: Connects Matsumoto to Nagoya and Nagano City. Best for travel from Nagoya/Kyoto/Osaka or Nagano.
  • JR Oito Line: Local line connecting Matsumoto northward to Hakuba and Omachi Onsen, offers scenic rural routes.
  • Japan Rail Pass: A cost-effective option for extensive train travel across Japan, covering most JR lines to Matsumoto. Purchase outside Japan.

Bus and Car Travel

  • Highway Buses: Extensive network connecting Matsumoto to major cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nagano). Alpico Kotsu is a main operator. Economical alternative to trains.
  • Self-Driving: International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid domestic license needed. Drive on the left. Toll roads can be expensive. Parking can be limited/costly in city centers. Toyota Rent a Car or Nissan Rent a Car are reputable companies.
  • Road Conditions: Excellent throughout Japan. Well-maintained and clearly signposted. Watch for cyclists and pedestrians. Winter conditions (snow/ice) need careful preparation and appropriate tires/chains.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable for landlocked Matsumoto. No sea or river ports for passenger arrivals.

Rental Car & Driving Tips

IDP Always

An International Driving Permit is needed before you arrive in Japan. Without it, legal driving is not possible.

Winter Tires

If driving in winter (Dec-Mar), ensure your rental car has snow tires or chains, as these are often mandatory in snowy regions.

Parking

Paid parking lots exist in the city center, which can be costly. Confirm parking with your accommodation.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

For international flights, arrive at major airports (NRT, HND, NGO) at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. For domestic flights, 1-2 hours is sufficient. For train or bus departures from Matsumoto Station, arrive at least 15-30 minutes before departure.

Exit Fees & Taxes

  • Japan implemented an International Tourist Tax (Sayonara Tax) of ¥1,000 per person since January 7, 2019.
  • This tax typically appears included in the price of your flight or ferry ticket.
  • You generally will not pay it separately at the airport or port.

Airport/Station Facilities

Matsumoto Station is a modern hub with various shops, restaurants, and waiting areas. Coin lockers are available for luggage storage. Major international airports (NRT, HND, NGO) offer extensive facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shopping, lounges, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi.

Departure Amenities

  • Duty-free shopping for souvenirs and gifts.
  • Wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
  • Access to airport Wi-Fi.

Planning Resources

Useful Travel Sites

These sites help with various aspects of your trip planning to Japan.

Online Tools

Health & Safety Resources

Information important for well-being during your travels.

Medical & Security

Specialty Gear & Connectivity

Water Filtration

LifeStraw: Consumer site for water filtration products.

Anti-Theft

Pacsafe: Anti-theft bags and travel security products.

ESIMs

Airalo: eSIMs for global data.

Final Advice: Smooth Departure

Always check your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station. Factor in potential delays during peak travel periods or adverse weather.