How long does the train journey from Kyoto to Matsumoto take?

For the train journey from Kyoto to Matsumoto, the most efficient route involves a Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya, followed by a Limited Express Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto. The total travel time, including transfer time in Nagoya, typically ranges from 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes.

What time is the first morning train for this journey?

The first morning departure for this efficient route is typically a Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya around 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM, with a connection in Nagoya for the Limited Express Shinano departing around 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM. This allows for an arrival in Matsumoto between approximately 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM.

Ticket - Train - Matsumoto - Kyoto

Q: What is the price of the train journey?

The cost of a train ticket between Kyoto and Matsumoto, via Nagoya, is approximately between 11,000 and 12,500 yen for a reserved ordinary class seat. This fare includes the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya and the Limited Express Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto. Japan Rail Pass holders can use their pass for the entire journey, with the exception of the Nozomi Shinkansen, which is not covered (the Hikari Shinkansen is a covered alternative).

Q: Is it better to travel via Nagoya (Shinkansen + Limited Express Shinano) or via Kanazawa/Nagano for this itinerary?

We observe that the route via Nagoya (Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya, then Limited Express Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto) is the fastest and most direct option for traveling from Kyoto to Matsumoto. It minimizes the number of transfers and the total travel time. Traveling via Kanazawa or Nagano would involve a significantly longer route and several additional transfers (for example, Kyoto - Kanazawa, then Kanazawa - Toyama, Toyama - Nagano, and finally Nagano - Matsumoto), making this option impractical for a direct journey. The route via Kanazawa/Nagano is preferable if travelers intend to visit these cities along the way.

Adults (+12yo)

Children* (< 12yo)

*the price displayed is for dedicated seats; children under 6 and babies can be seated on adults'lap free of charge.

Add a back

Official train tickets seller

Book your (bullet) train tickets online through an official partnership with JR, Japan’s national railway group.

Choose your preferred seat

Pick your perfect seat: aisle seat for more comfort, or window seat for breathtaking panoramas. The choice is yours!

7/7 Assistance

Our team of Japan experts, based in Europe and in Japan, is available 7/7 to help you, on all channels.

Our next departures

Itinerary Matsumoto › Kyoto

Lowest price

Fastest option

First/last departure

Distance

999.00 km

See all schedules

The Limited Express Shinano, which connects Nagoya to Matsumoto, traverses a portion of the Japanese Alps. During part of the journey, particularly after Gifu and approaching Nagano Prefecture, travelers can catch glimpses of mountainous landscapes. This train is also notable for its history, having been one of the first non-Shinkansen high-speed express trains to connect Nagoya to the Shinshu region (the old name for Nagano Prefecture), contributing to the tourism development of these alpine regions.

Frequently asked questions

The cost of a train ticket between Kyoto and Matsumoto, via Nagoya, is approximately between 11,000 and 12,500 yen for a reserved ordinary class seat. This fare includes the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya and the Limited Express Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto. Japan Rail Pass holders can use their pass for the entire journey, with the exception of the Nozomi Shinkansen, which is not covered (the Hikari Shinkansen is a covered alternative).

We observe that the route via Nagoya (Shinkansen from Kyoto to Nagoya, then Limited Express Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto) is the fastest and most direct option for traveling from Kyoto to Matsumoto. It minimizes the number of transfers and the total travel time. Traveling via Kanazawa or Nagano would involve a significantly longer route and several additional transfers (for example, Kyoto - Kanazawa, then Kanazawa - Toyama, Toyama - Nagano, and finally Nagano - Matsumoto), making this option impractical for a direct journey. The route via Kanazawa/Nagano is preferable if travelers intend to visit these cities along the way.