What is the fastest route?

The Limited Express Shinano is the fastest and most direct route connecting Nagoya to Matsumoto. There is no faster alternative by rail. This service is regular, with departures approximately every hour throughout the day, ensuring good flexibility for travelers.

Ticket - Train - Nagoya - Matsumoto

Q: How to get to Matsumoto from Nagoya?

We recommend taking the JR Limited Express Shinano train. This service offers a direct connection between Nagoya Station and Matsumoto Station. The journey duration is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. Shinano trains are comfortable, equipped with reclining seats and dedicated luggage space, including for standard-sized suitcases. Japan Rail Pass holders can use this service without additional fees, by making a seat reservation in advance.

Q: What is the train ticket price?

The cost of a train ticket between Nagoya and Matsumoto consists of a basic fare (乗車券 - jōshaken) and a Limited Express surcharge (特急券 - tokkyūken). For a non-reserved seat (自由席 - jiyūseki), the price is approximately 5,610 yen. For a reserved seat (指定席 - shiteiseki), the price is approximately 6,140 yen. These prices may vary slightly, and we advise checking updated fares at the time of booking. The Japan Rail Pass covers these costs entirely, allowing holders to travel without additional expense.

Q: What to see in Matsumoto when coming from Nagoya?

During the journey from Nagoya, the train passes through varied mountainous landscapes, notably the Kiso Valley, offering views of dense forests and rivers. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, Matsumoto Castle is the main attraction. This historic castle, often called "Crow Castle" due to its distinctive color, is one of Japan's oldest and best-preserved. It is accessible on foot from the station and represents a major point of interest for travelers wishing to explore Japanese history and architecture.

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.

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Itinerary Nagoya › Matsumoto

Lowest price

Fastest option

2h05

First/last departure

07:00 / 20:07

Distance

999.00 km

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The Limited Express Shinano train journey between Nagoya and Matsumoto traverses the picturesque Kiso Valley, renowned for its preserved ancient post towns, such as Tsumago and Magome. These villages were part of the old Nakasendo Road, which connected Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo), and the train offers glimpses of these mountainous and forested landscapes that have inspired numerous Japanese poets and artists over the centuries. Passengers can often spot the peaks of the Central Japanese Alps, especially distinct on clear days.

Frequently asked questions

We recommend taking the JR Limited Express Shinano train. This service offers a direct connection between Nagoya Station and Matsumoto Station. The journey duration is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. Shinano trains are comfortable, equipped with reclining seats and dedicated luggage space, including for standard-sized suitcases. Japan Rail Pass holders can use this service without additional fees, by making a seat reservation in advance.

The cost of a train ticket between Nagoya and Matsumoto consists of a basic fare (乗車券 - jōshaken) and a Limited Express surcharge (特急券 - tokkyūken).
For a non-reserved seat (自由席 - jiyūseki), the price is approximately 5,610 yen.
For a reserved seat (指定席 - shiteiseki), the price is approximately 6,140 yen.
These prices may vary slightly, and we advise checking updated fares at the time of booking. The Japan Rail Pass covers these costs entirely, allowing holders to travel without additional expense.

During the journey from Nagoya, the train passes through varied mountainous landscapes, notably the Kiso Valley, offering views of dense forests and rivers. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, Matsumoto Castle is the main attraction. This historic castle, often called "Crow Castle" due to its distinctive color, is one of Japan's oldest and best-preserved. It is accessible on foot from the station and represents a major point of interest for travelers wishing to explore Japanese history and architecture.