1-chōme-1 Fukashi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0815 MAP
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Current weather and clothing
The weather information shown here is the information closest to the station in question. Please note that there may be slight differences.
Yearly temperature changes and recommended clothing
Clothing recommendations for each temperature range
When traveling in Japan with the following average temperatures, the recommended clothing is as follows:
Average temperature: 25 degrees Celsius or higher
Light and breathable clothing such as cotton T-shirts, shorts, or sundresses. Protect against heat by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and using a parasol or umbrella. Using a fan or carrying a hand-held fan may also provide relief. Be sure to hydrate frequently to avoid heat stroke.
Average temperature: 20-25 degrees Celsius
Light clothing such as cotton T-shirts, short sleeves, and skirts. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can also protect against heat.
Average temperature: 16-20 degrees Celsius
Light clothing with a light layer such as a cardigan, denim jacket, or light sweater.
Average temperature: 12-16 degrees Celsius
Light to medium clothing such as a sweater or long-sleeved shirt and pants, light jacket.
Average temperature: 8-12 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket.
Average temperature: 5-8 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket. Wearing a hat, gloves, and scarf can also provide added warmth. In Japan, specialty clothing stores such as UNIQLO sell underwear made from fibers that absorb moisture such as sweat and generate heat. For example, UNIQLO’s “HEATTECH” underwear is recommended because it is thin and lightweight, yet has high heat retention properties. Disposable heat packs sold at drugstores and convenience stores are also effective in cold weather.
Average temperature: less than 5 degrees Celsius
Warm clothing such as a sweater, long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a coat or jacket. Wearing a hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated boots can also provide added warmth. Consider layering clothing for added insulation.
Monthly changes in temperature, precipitation, and snowfall (1991~2020 average, Japan Meteorological Agency survey)
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. | |
| temperature(°C) | -0.3 | 0.6 | 4.6 | 10.8 | 16.5 | 20.2 | 24.2 | 25.1 | 20.4 | 13.9 | 7.8 | 2.5 |
| precipitation(mm) | 39.8 | 38.5 | 78 | 81.1 | 94.5 | 114.9 | 131.3 | 101.6 | 148 | 128.3 | 56.3 | 32.7 |
| snowfall(cm) | 33 | 22 | 12 | 1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | 0 | 8 |
Winter
December
In December, winter has officially arrived in Matsumoto. The average temperature is 2.5°C. The weather is cold and snowy, with occasional sunny days. The precipitation for this month is around 32.7 mm. For clothing, it is recommended to wear heavy winter clothes such as thick jackets, sweaters, long pants, and winter boots. It is also important to wear warm accessories such as hats, scarves, and gloves to protect against the cold weather. It is best to bring a raincoat or umbrella as there may be occasional rainy days.
January
In January, the weather in Matsumoto Station is cold, with an average temperature of -0.3°C. There is also a considerable amount of snowfall, with an average snowfall of 33 cm. Visitors to Matsumoto Station in January should wear heavy winter clothing, including a thick jacket, gloves, a hat, and a scarf to keep warm.
February
February in Matsumoto Station is also cold, with an average temperature of 0.6°C. The amount of snowfall in February is similar to that in January, with an average snowfall of 22 cm. Visitors should wear similar clothing to what they would wear in January, such as a heavy winter jacket, gloves, a hat, and a scarf.
Spring
March
March is still relatively cold in Matsumoto Station, with an average temperature of 4.6°C. However, the snowfall begins to decrease, with an average snowfall of 12 cm. Visitors should wear warm winter clothing such as a medium jacket, gloves, and a hat. It is also advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat, as there is a chance of rain.
April
April in Matsumoto Station is a transitional month between winter and spring. The average temperature in April is 10.8°C, with an average precipitation of 81.1 mm. The weather in April is still chilly, but visitors can start to wear lighter clothing such as a spring jacket or a sweater. A light scarf and gloves may still be necessary, especially during the evening.
May
In May, the weather in Matsumoto Station becomes milder, with an average temperature of 16.5°C. The precipitation in May is about 94.5 mm on average. Visitors can wear lighter clothing such as a light jacket or a long-sleeved shirt, but it is still advisable to carry a sweater or a light coat in case the temperature drops.
Summer
June
June in Matsumoto Station is the beginning of the summer season, with an average temperature of 20.2°C. The precipitation in June is about 114.9 mm on average. Visitors can wear light summer clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts, and sandals. It is also advisable to carry an umbrella or a raincoat, as there is a chance of rain.
July
In July, the weather in Matsumoto Station becomes hot, with an average temperature of 24.2°C. The precipitation in July is about 131.3 mm on average. Visitors should wear light summer clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts, and sandals. It is advisable to carry a sun hat and sunglasses to protect against the strong sun.
August
August is the hottest month in Matsumoto Station, with an average temperature of 25.1°C. The precipitation in August is about 101.6 mm on average. Visitors should wear light clothing, such as a t-shirt, shorts, and sandals, to stay comfortable in the heat. It is also advisable to carry a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the strong sun.
Autumn
September
September in Matsumoto is the beginning of autumn. The average temperature is 20.4°C. The weather is generally warm and mild, with occasional rainy days. The precipitation for this month is around 148 mm. For clothing, it is recommended to wear light clothes such as t-shirts, shorts, and light pants. As the temperature drops in the evenings, it is recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater.
October
In October, the autumn season is in full swing. The average temperature is 13.9°C. The weather is cool and crisp, with occasional rainy days. The precipitation for this month is around 128.3 mm. For clothing, it is recommended to wear warmer clothes such as long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and light jackets. As the weather can be unpredictable, it is best to bring a raincoat or umbrella.
November
In November, the weather in Matsumoto starts to get colder. The average temperature is 7.8°C. The weather is generally cloudy. The precipitation for this month is around 56.3 mm. For clothing, it is recommended to wear warm clothes such as heavy jackets, sweaters, and long pants. As the weather can be unpredictable, it is best to bring a raincoat, umbrella, and gloves.
Recommended tourist destinations
Matsumoto Castle
4-1 Marunouchi, Matsumoto 390-0873 Nagano Prefecture
The castle was built between 1593 and 1594, making it the oldest castle in Japan. The castle tower is a National Treasure and a valuable structure. It is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot. Visitors can dress up as warlords or geisha and take pictures with Matsumoto Castle in the background.
Kappa Bashi
Kamikochi, Matsumoto 390-1516 Nagano Prefecture
This bridge is a symbol of Kamikochi. It is a 36.3-meter-long, 3.1-meter-wide suspension bridge made of larch spanning the Azusa River. It is a viewpoint from which you can see the Hotaka mountain range up close, and is a standard photo spot in Kamikochi.
Taisho Pond
Azumi Kamikochi, Matsumoto 390-1516 Nagano Prefecture
Taisho Pond, with its beautiful surface reflecting the Hotaka mountain range like a mirror, was created when the mountain erupted in 1915. The reflection of the submerged trees in Taisho Pond is fantastic and mysterious. It is one of the most famous scenic spots in Kamikochi.
Norikura Kogen
Azumi, Matsumoto 390-1520 Nagano Prefecture
Norikura Plateau is located east of Mt. Norikura in Azumi, Matsumoto City. As a mountain sightseeing area, it is home to hotels, auto campgrounds, and many walking trails, as well as events such as the “Norikura-dake Sunrise Bus” and “Starlight Tour.
Matsumoto City Museum of Art
4-2-22 Chuo, Matsumoto 390-0811 Nagano Prefecture
Since Matsumoto City is the birthplace of “Yayoi Kusama,” the queen of polka dots, one of the most famous contemporary artists, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art has a permanent exhibition of her valuable works. The museum store also sells Yayoi Kusama goods, making it a popular facility for tourists.
Nawate Shopping District
Ote,Matsumoto 390-0874 Nagano Prefecture
Located a 10-minute walk from Matsumoto Station, this shopping street is lined with unique stores, including sweet stores such as Iyaki, lacquer ware, and temari ball stores. It is open to pedestrians all day long, and the row-home style of the streets is harmonious.
Suwa Lake
3-1-27 Kaigandori , Suwa 392-0027
The lake is located in the center of the Suwa Basin and has a circumference of approximately 16 km. There is a sightseeing boat that circles the lake. There are numerous museums and art galleries scattered along the lakeside, as well as a bicycle path.
Suwa Shrine
1 Nakasu Miyayama, Suwa 392-0015 Nagano Prefecture
One of the area’s most popular power spots, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, and is mentioned in the Kojiki (the oldest book on the origin of land governance) It consists of four shrines, each with different benefits, so you can visit only the shrine you need or take any route you wish.
Naraijuku
Narai, Shiojiri 399-6303 Nagano Prefecture
Located between Edo and Kyoto, it prospered as an inn town. Once you step into the town, you will see a townscape that retains strong traces of the Edo period. Stores selling local cuisine, sweets, and folk crafts line the streets.
Nakasendo Tsumagojuku
Kisomachi, Kiso-gun 397-0000 Nagano Prefecture
It is an Edo period inn town nestled in the mountainous Kiso region. In addition to buildings designated as national important cultural properties, buildings from the Edo period have been restored, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period firsthand.
Where to leave your luggage
There are a total of five coin locker locations at Matsumoto Station.
1) 3rd floor, waiting room on the east side of the castle: Go out the ticket gate and turn right to find a waiting room.
2)3rd floor, free walkway on the east side of the castle: Located at the end of the walkway that leads to the castle entrance after exiting the ticket gates.
3)3rd floor, inside the Welcomcenter: You will see the “JR EAST Welcome Center” right in front of the ticket gate. It is located in the center.
4)2nd floor, next to the stairs on the side of the castle exit (east exit): Take the stairs leading to the castle exit and go down to the 2nd floor. It is located next to the stairs.
5)1st floor, Station Square on the side of the Castle Exit (East Exit): Go out the exit, turn left, and you will find it on the wall facing the roundabout.
Recommended hotels and inns
Dormy Inn Matsumoto
2-2-1 Fukashi, Matsumoto 390-0815 Nagano Prefecture
5-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 4
Hotel style: Mid-range , Modern
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hoshino Resorts KAI Matsumoto
1-31-1 Asama Onsen, Matsumoto 390-0303 Nagano Prefecture
2.5mi/4km from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 4
Hotel style: Luxury , Modern
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Buena Vista
1-2-1 Honjo, Matsumoto 390-0814 Nagano Prefecture
6-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3.5
Hotel style: Business , Great View
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Matsumoto Marunouchi Hotel
3-5-15 Ote, Matsumoto 390-0874 Nagano Prefecture
9-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3.5
Hotel style: Modern , Quiet
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Shoho
527 Satoyamabe, Matsumoto 390-0221 Nagano Prefecture
2.4mi/3.9km from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3.5
Hotel style: Family , Mountain View
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Premier Hotel -CABIN- Matsumoto
1-2-31 Fukashi, Matsumoto 390-0815 Nagano Prefecture
2-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Centrally Located
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Alpico Plaza Hotel
1-3-21 Fukashi, Matsumoto 390-0815 Nagano Prefecture
3-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Mid-range , Centrally Located
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Montagne Matsumoto
3-2 Habaue, Matsumoto 390-0817 Nagano Prefecture
3-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Quiet , Business
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Toyoko Inn Matsumoto-ekimae Hommachi
2-1-23 Chuo, Matsumoto 390-0811 Nagano Prefecture
5-minutes walk from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Centrally Located , Quiet
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
Hotel Tamanoyu
1-28-16 Asama-onsen, Matsumoto 390-0303 Nagano Prefecture
2.4mi/3.9km from Matsumoto Station
Hotel class: 3
Hotel style: Family , Romantic
Check Rates & Availability:
>> See on Tripadvisor
>> See on Trip.com
>> See on Expedia
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Comprehensive checklist before traveling to Japan
Book hotels
Book early before the hotels are fully booked
Japan offers a range of accommodations, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Popular platforms like Expedia and Agoda often have a wide selection, but also consider local sites like Rakuten Travel. In big cities, staying near a major train station like Tokyo's Shinjuku or Kyoto's Kyoto Station can save you a lot of commuting time. Remember that Japan's peak tourist seasons, such as cherry blossom season, can lead to booked-out accommodations, so reserve early.
>> Visit Agoda's official website
>> Visit Expedia's official website
Book flights
Compare and purchase flight tickets
When planning your trip to Japan, it's advisable to start by researching flights several months in advance. Airlines often release promotional fares, especially during off-peak seasons. Use comparison sites like Skyscanner or KAYAK to get a sense of the price range. Be flexible with your travel dates if possible; flying mid-week might be cheaper than on weekends.
>> Visit Skyscanner's official website
>> Visit KAYAK's official website
Order Japan Rail Passes for each family member
Purchase your Japan Rail Pass before departure
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, making it a cost-effective option for tourists. However, it's only available to foreign tourists and must be purchased *before* you arrive in Japan. Determine the areas you plan to visit; if you're traveling extensively, a nationwide pass is beneficial, but if you're only exploring a specific region, consider regional JR passes. Children under 12 get a discounted pass, so ensure you order the correct type for each family member.
>>Visit Japan Rail Pass's website
Plan your attire for Japan
Check the weather at your destination on this site
Japanese weather varies significantly by season. In summer, it's hot and humid, so breathable clothes are essential. Winters, especially in the north, can be cold, requiring warm attire. If visiting during the rainy season (June to early July), pack a good umbrella and waterproof shoes. While Japan is generally casual, certain places like temples, shrines, or upscale restaurants may require modest and neat dressing.
Reserve a pocket Wi-Fi or SIM card
SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi is required
Beyond clothes, consider packing essentials like a universal power adapter (Japan uses Type A and B sockets), portable Wi-Fi or SIM card for internet access, and any necessary medications (with a copy of the prescription).
Which is better: a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi?
When traveling in Japan, one essential to consider is securing internet access, especially given that many locations still don't offer free Wi-Fi. To ensure you can use your smartphone throughout your trip, you'll typically have three options: (1) a SIM card, (2) pocket Wi-Fi, or (3) the roaming service provided by your mobile company. Roaming services can be quite expensive, so we often recommend using a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi. While SIM cards tend to be more affordable than pocket Wi-Fi, they can be trickier to set up. Pocket Wi-Fi, on the other hand, can be shared among several users, making it a favorable choice for families or groups.
▼SIM card
Advantages:
Relatively affordable.
Disadvantages:
Can be time-consuming to set up initially.
May have strict data limits.
▼Pocket Wi-Fi
Advantages:
Offers substantial data allowances.
A single device can be shared among multiple users.
Easily usable with PCs as well.
Disadvantages:
Typically more expensive.
Japan's representative services
Sakura Mobile's website
▼SIM card
>>Visit Sakura Mobile's official website
>>Visit mobal's official website
▼pocket Wi-Fi
>>Visit Sakura Mobile's official website
>>Visit NINJA WiFi's official website
>>Visit Wi-Fi RENTAL Store's official website
Book local tours as needed
Pre-book your tour and have a great trip!
Local tours offer deep insights into Japan's culture and heritage. Websites like Viator or GetYourGuide offer a variety of tours, from traditional tea ceremonies to modern pop culture tours in Akihabara. Consider unique experiences like staying with monks on Mt. Koya or taking a cooking class to learn authentic Japanese dishes.
>>Visit Viator's official website
>>Visit GetYourGuide's official website
Purchase advance tickets for popular attractions
Make a reservation to avoid crowds
Attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, Universal Studios Japan, or the Studio Ghibli Museum often have long ticket queues. Buy tickets online in advance to save time. Some attractions also have timed entry, so check the specific time slots available and plan accordingly.
▼Tokyo Disney Resort
>>Visit Tokyo Disney Resort official website
>>Visit Viator's Tokyo Disneyland page
>>Visit Viator's Tokyo DisneySea page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's Tokyo Disneyland page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's Tokyo DisneySea page
▼Universal Studios Japan
>>Visit USJ official website
>>Visit Viator's USJ page
>>Visit GetYourGuide's USJ page
Buy travel insurance
insurance concept, health, life and travel insurance
It is important to be prepared for emergencies
While Japan is a safe country, travel insurance is crucial for unforeseen events like health emergencies, travel disruptions, or lost baggage. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses in Japan, as healthcare, though excellent, can be expensive.
Here we introduce online travel insurance services that are popular worldwide.
World Nomads: An online travel insurance service widely endorsed by travelers worldwide. They offer plans that cover adventurous activities and high-risk sports.
>>Visit World Nomads' official website
AIG Travel Guard: An insurance service available to travelers all over the world. They offer a wide range of options, including cancellation protection and emergency medical insurance.
>>Visit AIG Travel Guard's official website
Share your itinerary with emergency contacts
Organize your reservation information
Keep a digital and printed copy of your detailed itinerary, including hotel addresses, train schedules, and booked tours. Share this with a trusted family member or friend not traveling with you.
