Resources & References: Matsumoto

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

Google Maps
Excellent for walking directions, public transport routes, and locating points of interest.
Japan Transit Planner
Indispensable for navigating Japan's complex train and bus networks.
Google Translate / DeepL
Download Japanese language packs for offline use for real-time translation.
HappyCow
Locate suitable restaurants if you have specific dietary needs.
Weather App
Important for daily forecasts, especially for outdoor activities.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
Offers comprehensive and reliable tourism information for all of Japan.
Matsumoto City Tourism Portal
The official website for Matsumoto tourism, providing event schedules and local advice.
Japan Guide
An independent travel guide with detailed information on various destinations across Japan.
Social Media Accounts
Follow official tourism accounts (JNTO, Matsumoto City) for inspiration and updates.
Podcasts and Digital Content
Search for content on "Japan travel" or "Nagano" for cultural understanding.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

Consider comprehensive guides from reputable publishers for detailed information. Obtain detailed city maps from the Matsumoto Tourist Information Center.

Fodor's Essential Japan

Books About the Destination

For general Japanese history, explore titles like "Japan: A Concise History". An art book on Yayoi Kusama can enrich your museum visit.

Rick Steves Japan Guide

Local Publications

Check the Matsumoto Tourist Information Center for free local pamphlets, event calendars, and dining guides.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

Police: Dial 110.
Fire / Ambulance: Dial 119.
Japan Visitor Hotline: 050-3816-2787 for 24/7 multi-language support.
Your Country's Embassy/Consulate: Keep their contact details accessible.

Hospital and Clinic Locations

Matsumoto features several hospitals and clinics.
Major hospitals include Matsumoto Medical Center and Shinshu University Hospital.
Your hotel front desk can assist in finding the nearest appropriate facility.
Consulate information for lost documents is typically in Tokyo or Osaka.

Lost Document and Natural Disaster Protocols

Lost Document Procedures

Report lost or stolen documents to local police by dialing 110.
Obtain a police report for records.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate for emergency passport arrangements.
Most embassies are in Tokyo or Osaka.

Earthquake Preparedness

Japan is earthquake-prone; learn "Drop, Cover, Hold On."
If outdoors, move to open areas away from structures.
Follow local emergency broadcast information.
Hotels and facilities post emergency information.

Typhoon Protocols

Typhoons mainly occur from August to October.
Stay indoors and away from windows during a typhoon.
Monitor local weather warnings from authorities.
Adhere to any evacuation advisories.

Travel Essentials Checklist

Pre-Trip Planning Timeline

Months Before Departure

Passport Validity: Check it spans 6 months beyond your trip.
Visa Requirements: Determine and apply early if needed.
International Flights: Book early for better prices and availability.
Japan Rail Pass: Purchase your voucher outside Japan.

Month Before Departure

Itinerary: Confirm your day-by-day plans.
Tours/Classes: Book specific activities (e.g., soba making).
Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive coverage (e.g., World Nomads).
Bank Notification: Inform your bank of travel dates.

Week Before Departure

Reconfirm Bookings: Flights, hotels, passes.
Pack: Based on climate and activities.
Documents: Gather passport, IDP, reservations.
Apps: Download and familiarize yourself with essential apps.

Pre-Trip Research and Home Prep

Research Recommendations

Japanese Etiquette: Understand customs for respectful interactions.
Basic Japanese Phrases: Learn greetings, "thank you," and "excuse me."
Public Transportation: Understand train and bus systems.

Home Preparation

Notify family/friends of your itinerary and contacts.
Arrange pet care or house-sitting.
Secure your home, pay bills, and stop mail delivery.

Arrival and Departure Steps

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear immigration and customs with passport and return ticket.
Pick up Wi-Fi or purchase SIM card.
Exchange currency or withdraw from an ATM.

Departure Preparation

Purchase souvenirs and consider shipping items.
Process VAT refunds for eligible purchases.
Allow ample time for airport transfer and check-in procedures.

Orientation and Getting Around

Orientation Strategies

Visit the Matsumoto Tourist Information Center at Matsumoto Station for maps and advice.
Locate your accommodation using Google Maps or a local map.
Find the nearest convenience store or ATM (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart).
Identify useful local landmarks.
Familiarize yourself with nearby transport stops.

Currency and Transportation from Entry Point

Withdraw cash from a 7-Eleven ATM near Matsumoto Station.
Purchase an IC card or a Town Sneaker Bus pass for local travel.
From Matsumoto Station, most accommodations are a short walk or quick taxi ride.
Confirm the best transport option based on your hotel's location.
Consider luggage amount for chosen transport.

Important Considerations

Dining Reservations

For fine dining or popular establishments, a reservation beforehand proves useful.

International Driving Permit

If driving, obtain your IDP in your home country before departure.

Embassy and Consulate Information

Note down contact information for your country's embassy or nearest consulate in Japan.

Alert for Airport Transit

The journey from Matsumoto to Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) in Tokyo typically takes 4-5 hours. Plan accordingly to avert any last-minute rush.

Additional Considerations

Cultural Immersion

IC Cards
These prepaid cards (e.g., Suica, Pasmo) are widely useful for trains and buses in urban areas.
Ticketing
Learn how to purchase individual tickets at station vending machines.
Platform Numbers
Pay close attention to platform numbers and train types for your journey.

Navigating Local Currency and Payments

Japanese Yen (JPY)
The local currency, typically cash-favored for many smaller shops and eateries.
Credit Card Acceptance
Larger stores, department stores, and hotels widely accept credit cards.
ATMs
7-Eleven ATMs often accept international cards for cash withdrawals.

Responsible Travel Overview

Support Local Businesses

Prioritize local restaurants, shops, and tour operators to directly benefit the community.

Purchase Authentic Crafts

Buying souvenirs from local artisans in Nakamachi-dori upholds traditional crafts and livelihoods.

Share Positive Experiences

Post positive reviews and recommend Matsumoto to others, fostering sustainable tourism.

Sustainable Practices

Waste Management

Practice Japan's strict waste separation rules.
Minimize waste generation whenever possible.
Be prepared to carry your trash until appropriate bins are found.
Bins are often at convenience stores or train stations.

Resource Conservation

Be mindful of your water consumption.
Conserve energy by turning off lights and electronics.
Stick to designated trails when exploring natural areas.
Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to diminish plastic use.

Cultural Respect

Maintaining Etiquette

Continue observing customs like bowing and shoe etiquette.
Maintain quiet behavior in public spaces.
Always ask permission before photographing people.
Continue learning about Japanese culture and history.

Responsible Interactions

Engage with locals respectfully and courteously.
Acknowledge their customs and traditions.
Seek to understand, rather than merely observe.
Contribute positively to the local environment and economy.

Ethical Travel Reminder

Adopting responsible travel practices leaves a positive footprint on the places you visit.

Resources & References