Only 2.5 hours from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, Matsumoto is the second largest city in Nagano Prefecture, most famous for its castle and easy access to the North Alps. Unlike Shinjuku Station and Tokyo in general, Matsumoto is small and easy to navigate. For most of our tours, the meeting point is inside Matsumoto Station. The following information explains how and where to find your guide.

 

Where is the Meeting Point?

Your guide will wait for you inside Matsumoto Station in front of the Japan Rail (JR) office which is next to Starbucks.

 

How to Get There?

There are two entrances / exits at Matsumoto Station – the Castle Exit and Alps Exit.

 

  • From the Castle Entrance

On the ground floor, you will see "Vie de France" bread shop with a staircase and escalator to the right. Go up the stairs / escalator to the second floor.

 

Once there, you will see “New Days” convenience store and the station’s waiting room on your left – next to the JR office.

 

Across from the JR office, on your right, you will see Tourist Information and a Starbucks. Your guide will be waiting there.

 

  • From the Alps Exit

Go up the stairs to the second floor and walk along the thoroughfare into the main area of the station. You will see the ticket gates on your right.

 

Immediately across from the ticket gates, on your left, you will see Tourist Information and a Starbucks. Your guide will be waiting there.

 

What’s on Offer at the Station?

Matsumoto Station offers a small but good range of shops and eateries. On the first floor you will find a bakery and souvenir store.

 

The second floor includes coin lockers, toilets, Tourist Information, “News Day” convenience store, Starbucks and access to multiple stores inside “Midori” shopping center.

 

On the third floor you will find more stores and restaurants inside “Midori”.

 

What’s on Offer Outside the Station?

Matsumoto Station is located in the city’s downtown area and as such, provides easy access to plenty of restaurants, accommodation and the attractions. Exiting via the Castle Exit leads you to a large square lined with restaurants and hotels. Bus stands and Matsumoto Bus Terminal are also located directly outside of this side of the station.