Located in the heart of Japan, Matsumoto is a popular destination in its own right and convenient transport hub for travelers heading to nearby destinations including the North Alps. Travelling from Nagano to Matsumoto is quick and easy using the Limited Express ‘Shinano’ or a local train, with travel times range from 1 to 1.5 hours from Nagano Station.
The Limited Express ‘Shinano’ or the local train are taking 1 to 1.5 hours from Nagano Station
Step-by-step Journey from Nagano to Matsumoto
Nagano is a mid-sized transport hub serving multiple railway lines, including the Shinkansen route from Tokyo to Kanazawa. Given its size, it is best to know your route to the train in advance. Typically, one Shinano express train and one local train depart every hour. The express train takes about 1 hour, while the local train takes approximatley 1.5 hours.
The following instructions will take you to the correct platform
– Enter Nagano Station via either the North or South Entrance, then head up the stairs.
Enter Nagano Station via either the North or South Entrance
– Continue straight ahead until you reach the ticket gates for the “Shinano Railway” JR line, which will be on your right or left depending on which entrance you used.
Continue straight ahead until you reach the ticket gates for the “Shinano Railway” JR line
– You can purchase tickets in advance online, at the Japan Rail (JR) ticketoffice or at the ticket machines located on the right of the ticket gates. Please note, if you would like to book a reserved seat you will need to do so prior to your intended day of travel as they will likely sell out.
You can purchase tickets at the ticket machines 
Or at the JR Line ticket office located on the right of the ticket gates
– Go back to the ticket gates and you will see an information board above with the platform number and departure time.
Go back to the ticket gates 
You will see an information board above with the platform number and departure time
– Limited Express ‘Shinano’ departs from Platform No.6 and local trains depart from Platform No. 7. Simply follow the signs to your designated platform.
Limited Express ‘Shinano’ departs from Platform No.6 and local trains depart from Platform No. 7
– Board the train and enjoy your journey. As you travel to Matsumoto, take in the stunning mountainous landscapes of Nagano Prefecture – a perfect introduction to the region’s natural beauty.
Board the train and enjoy your journey
– Prior to each stop, there is are announcements in Japanese followed by English. Important reminder: Matsumoto is not the final stop for the Limited Express ‘Shinano’ and local trains, so be sure not to miss your stop!
Matsumoto is not the final stop for the Limited Express ‘Shinano’ and local trains
– After disembarking, go up the stairs. You will see the central exit ahead of you. Unlike Nagano, Matsumoto Station is small and it is easy to find where to go.
After disembarking, go up the stairs 
The exit to go to Matsumoto Castle is to your right
– Immediately outside the ticket gates, you will see the tourist information office, JR office and a Starbucks.
The JR Line ticket office
– The Castle Exit is to your right while the Alps Exit is to your left. The Castle Exit provides access to most of the city’s accommodation, restaurants and sightseeing including Matsumoto Castle – a 20-minute walk from the station.
Meetup Point for Our Tours
For guests joining one of the ‘Tours & Activities’ operated by Matsumoto Experience, your guide will wait for you inside the station in front of the JR office and Starbucks Coffee.
Meet your guide in front of the JR Line ticket office / Starbucks Coffee inside the station (2F)
For more information about how to meet up with your guide, please see this article. We hope you enjoy your time in Matsumoto!