This winter, a limited-edition shuttle bus service will connect between Matsumoto and Hakuba, one of the world’s best snow resorts abundant with slopes, powder snow, and a variety of courses that attract skiers and snowboarders from Japan and abroad.
Cheap shuttle bus: 3,500 yen [Reservation Required]
This is convenient for heading to Hakuba after sightseeing in Matsumoto. Date of operation: December 13th, 2025 ~ March 8th, 2025
Matsumoto Bus Terminal Departure: 7:10 AM ↓ Arrive at Hakuba Goryu 9:00 AM Arrive at JR Hakuba Station at 9:05 AM Hakuba Happo Bus Terminal 9:10 AM arrival Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort 9:15 AM arrival
JR Oito Line 1,170 yen｜Time required: about 1 hour and 50 minutes (in case of express train: about 1 hour｜+1,020 yen)
It is also possible to go from Matsumoto Station to Hakuba Station by train. Direct train timetable from Matsumoto Station Departure: 9:20 AM Departure at 10:41 AM (Limited Express Azusa +1,020 yen) Departs at 11:20 AM Departs at 2:09 PM
Above is the timetable for direct trains. Some trains transfer at Shinano-Omachi Station.
To Matsumoto (Hakuba→Matsumoto)
3,500 yen shuttle bus [Reservation Required]
This is convenient when traveling between Hakuba and Matsumoto Date of operation: December 13th, 2025 ~March 8, 2026
A special experience to enjoy the Japanese Alps in autumn by air!
If you are planning a trip from Hida Takayama to Matsumoto, Shinshu in October, there is one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss– the Shin Hotaka Ropeway. The Shin Hotaka Ropeway is the most popular ropeway in Japan.
The second half of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in all of Japan. It’s a special experience where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Japanese Alps from the air.
The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Autumn offers the most beautiful scenery of the year. Located at an elevation of 2,156 meters, the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform offers a panoramic view of the Japanese Alps in the brilliant red and golden colors of the autumn leaves.
As the trail rises more than 1,000 meters in elevation from the foot of the mountain to the summit, visitors can enjoy the changes in autumn foliage at different elevation zones. This is a must-visit spot in autumn, where you can enjoy both a breathtaking photo-worthy view and Japanese autumn foliage viewing at the same time.
A trip with a spectacular view starting at the morning market in Takayama
Takayama Morning Market, one of the three major morning markets in Japan
Start your trip with the Takayama morning market. Known as one of the three major morning markets in Japan, the Takayama morning market is a great place to enjoy fresh local finger foods, crafts, and local produce. Taking in the crisp morning air and leisurely browsing the stalls makes for a wonderful start to experiencing traditional Hida life.
Access to Shin Hotaka Ropeway from Takayama
After enjoying the morning market, head to the Shin Hotaka Ropeway from the Takayama Bus Center. A direct bus service runs to the Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of the first Shin Hotaka Ropeway, arriving at the site in approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Important Note: Due to the extremely crowded fall foliage season, it is strongly recommended to arrive early at the Alpine Bus Center to get in line.
Aerial views on the Shin Hotaka Ropeway
The second part of the Shin Hotaka Ropeway operates the only double-decker gondola in Japan, offering a special experience to enjoy the magnificent view of the 3,000-meter-high Northern Alps from the air. The view from the Nishi-Hotakaguchi Station observation platform at the summit station is breathtaking. The view from here was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
You can purchase digital tickets for the Shinhotaka Ropeway, as well as digital tickets combining the Shinhotaka Ropeway with the route bus (free pass) between Takayama/Hirayu Onsen and Shinhotaka Ropeway Station, on your smartphone.
[Attention] If you come by bus, please leave your large luggage in the coin locker at Shin Hotaka Onsen Station. The ropeway requires an extra charge for luggage over 6 kg. Luggage tickets are 1,000 yen/piece for round trip.
Since the capacity of the ropeway No. 1 is small (45 passengers), it may take some time to get on the ropeway when it is crowded. We recommend that you drive to the Shirakabadaira parking lot at the second ropeway stop. If you use the local bus, only Shin Hotaka Onsen Station of Daiichi Ropeway is available.
Route to Matsumoto
After enjoying the spectacular autumn scenery of the Japanese Alps, head to Matsumoto, a city of history and culture. For transportation, you will need to change buses at the Hirayu Bus Terminal.
Travel Routes and Fees
Shin HotakaRopeway (Shin Hotaka Onsen Station) → Hirayu Bus Terminal
If you bring luggage weighing 6 kg or more onto the ropeway, you will be charged a luggage ticket (1,000 yen per piece) or a coin locker fee.
The base of Shinhotaka Ropeway
Around early October, the lines for Shinhotaka ropeway were not long at all, and almost everyone who lined up could board without waiting for the next shuttle.
Although the foliage at the bottom of the ropeway was still green, as you step out to the 1st station ropeway, suddenly the season completely changes from summer to fall! Though not fully developed, the vibrant fall leaves along with the crystal clear skies looked like a postcard and almost unreal.
Shirakabadaira Station (Ropeway 1)
Just one year ago, Shirakabadaira Station was renovated to include a new and stylish gift shop, bakery, and dining area. At the bread store, they sell a variety of freshly baked breads, craft drinks (including an amusing curry and melon bread cider), gelato, and other local specialties.
After walking around and doing some light souvenir shopping, you can leisurely relax or take a stroll around the grounds in time for the gondola which arrives twice an hour. Depending on high winds or other weather aliments, the gondola usage may be postponed.
Alpscape Observation Deck and Itadaki no Mori
Finally making it to the second ropeway exit, you will have to walk a few flights of stairs until reaching the observation deck. The scenery of the mountains from the second ropeway is completely different from the base of the ropeway and was completely colorful. The view especially from Itadaki no Mori is the best as you can get a very clear view of the autumn foliage.
Around the station are also several hiking trails along with trendy restaurants, cafes, and places to sit and rest. Its a perfect place to just relax and stare into the distance. The temperature is not too cold (around 15C) and is very comfortable around this time.
Matsumoto Castle at Night (Fall)
While Matsumoto Castle is stunning during the day due to the backdrop of the Japanese Alps, the night time view is arguably even more breathtaking. Every night from sundown until 10PM, Matsumoto Castle is lit up creating a mesmerizing glowing image. During special holidays they also display more colorful light shows on the castle walls.
Matsumoto has many attractions and gorgeous scenic spots located beyond Matsumoto Castle. Areas such as Happo Pond, Hakuba, and Narai-juku are all breathtaking view points enjoyed by locals and travelers alike.
If you are traveling on your own from Takayama to Matsumoto, up to two transfers by highway bus may be necessary. Since there are no trains connecting the two areas, your only options other than renting a car is by taking the bus. The direct bus to Matsumoto departs from Hirayu Bus Terminal, a bus terminal 1 hour from Takayama City proper.
Takayama Nohi Bus Center → Hirayu Bus Terminal [times]: 6:00, 7:00, 7;40, 8:40, 9:40, 10:40, 11:40, 12:40, 1:40, 2:40, 3:40, 4:40, 5:40 Total price: 1600 yen *For the Takayama to Hirayu bus, you will need to buy a ticket in person at Takayama Nohi Bus Center (open from 6:10 AM).
Hirayu Bus Terminal →Matsumoto Station [times]: 7:50, 11:50, 1:50, 2:50, 4:50 Total price: 2,800 yen *Buses from Hirayu Bus Terminal to Matsumoto Station all require a reservation in advance.
A trip from Takayama to Matsumoto is a special route that allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of autumn in Japan. The aerial walk on the Shin Hotaka ropeway is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Whether it be going on your own or going via a convenient bus tour, take time to enjoy this wonderful autumn scenic route according to your travel style.
Google Map (Takayama – Shin Hotaka Ropeway – Matsumoto) Location
Google Map (Takayama Station→Shin Hotaka Ropeway)
Google Map (Shin Hotaka Lowway→Hirayu Bus Terminal)
Google Map (Hirayu Bus Terminal→Matsumoto Bus Terminal)
Why is the Nagano and Gifu area the best place to travel to Japan in October?
October is the most beautiful season in Japan for autumn foliage. The Kamikochi area in Nagano Prefecture and the Takayama area in Gifu Prefecture in particular are ideal destinations for foreign travelers who want to both enjoy jaw dropping autumn scenery and authentic traditional Japanese culture at the Takayama Autumn Festival.
Down below, we’ll introduce a 3-day model plan that starts with historical exploration in Matsumoto City, followed by breathtaking autumn foliage in Kamikochi and the traditional autumn Takayama Festival (held on Thursday and Friday, October 9th and 10th, 2025).
A Model Planfor Enjoying Spectacular Autumn Scenery and Cultural Experiences in 3 Days
Matsumoto, Kamikochi and the Takayama Festival in Autumn Foliage!
Day 1: October 7th (Tuesday) – Enjoy history and art in Matsumoto
Morning: Explore Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure
Experience firsthand the history of Japan from the Warring States Period to the present day.
Visit the beautiful Matsumoto Castle, one of the 12 existing castle towers in Japan, designated as a National Treasure.
Taste Nagano’s local cuisine such as Shinshu soba noodles and Sanzokuyaki
Stay at a hotel in Matsumoto City
Day 2: October 8th (Wed) – Spectacular view of autumn leaves in Kamikochi and transfer to Takayama
Early morning: Departure from Matsumoto to Kamikochi
There are two ways to access Kamikochi: by public transportation or on your own
(1) Railroad + local bus Feature: High frequency, access by train and local buses , Matsumoto Station→Shinshimashima Station: Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line (about 30 minutes, 710 yen) From Shinnimashima Station→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (about 1 hour, 3,000 yen) Buses are available by reservation only. ＞ Details & Reservations
or
Direct route bus Feature: Easy, direct route bus access Matsumoto Bus Terminal→Kamikochi Bus Terminal: local bus (5:30 and 10:15 departures, 4,450 yen) ＞ Details & Reservations
Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line (CAUTION) Caution (1) The Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line cannot be boarded with IC cards. Please purchase a ticket at Matsumoto Station.
Caution (2) The location of the ticket vending machines at Matsumoto Station is the same as for the JR line. Tickets for the Matsumoto Dentetsu Kamikochi Line can be purchased at the two ticket vending machines on the left. Please pay with cash or a transportation system IC card. Credit cards are not accepted.
Caution (3) The ticket gates at Matsumoto Station are the same as for the JR line. After passing through the ticket gate, please go to “Line 7” on the right side. Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line is on platform 7.
Kamikochi Luggage Information Approximate fees (one day): small 350 yen, medium 400 yen, large 500 yen, extra large 600 yen *Small: about 10 liters, extra large: about 60 liters
Morning – Afternoon: Enjoy the spectacular autumn scenery at Kamikochi
Spectacular view of the Hotaka mountain range from Kappa Bridge
Take a walk to Taisho Pond and enjoy the autumn leaves reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake.
Enjoy the clean air and beautiful nature in a highland resort at an altitude of 1,500 meters
Kamikochi Experience on Oct.8th
The temperature in Matsumoto City on Oct.8th was 20°C (Kōtōchi felt a bit chilly, with a perceived temperature of around 15°C to 20°C), and the weather was cloudy turning to clear. Since it had rained the day before, the weather was perfect for exploring.
There are no restrooms from Taisho Pond to the next area, Tashiro Bridge, so I recommend using the facilities here first. The restroom here operates on a tip system. The tips are used for restroom maintenance and preserving Kamikochi’s natural environment, so the bathrooms were very clean!
Some pictures of Taisho Pond in early October.
Stepping off the bus, a breathtaking view immediately unfolded before my eyes. Though it is still slightly too early for peak autumn colors, the mirror like lake reflecting the green trees felt truly magical. Many tourists were taking pictures and videos around the area making me realize how truly international Kamikochi has become.
After taking a lot of pictures, I headed to the next destination: Tashiro Pond!
From Taisho Pond, I began my hike along a well-maintained wooden path following the Azusa River. The path is relatively flat and easy to walk, so even beginners can feel at ease. Looking down at the beautiful spring water at my feet, I spotted Iwana (Char) swimming!
Iwana are said to inhabit only areas with excellent water quality, which speaking volumes about Kamikochi’s water. Some were so large I mistook them for carp at first!
Also, while walking along the forest road, you’ll find areas where fallen trees remain untouched. This is to preserve the natural landscape; apparently, they deliberately avoid human intervention unless the trees pose a hazard, such as blocking the walking path.
On the pathway in the forest, you’ll find a lot of areas where fallen trees have remained untouched. Apparently this is to preserve the natural landscape. The workers at Kamikochi seem to deliberately avoid intervening with the surrounding nature unless it poses as a hazard.
After about a 25 minute walk from Taisho Pond, you arrive at Tashiro Pond. (Unfortunately, I couldn’t get very good photos this time…) It’s a quiet, mystical place where water bubbles up from the bottom of the shallow pond.
Another 15-minute walk brings you to Tashiro Bridge, where a bench provided the perfect spot to rest. The view of the Hotaka Range from Tashiro Bridge is absolutely stunning. It was just a little further until we reached todays goal, Kappa Bridge.
The path from Tashiro Bridge to Kappabashi is full of interesting things to see. The clear stream flows directly next you, so you can really feel the nature of the area. While walking, I spotted a mushroom that looked like it could come straight out of Super Mario! It was so cute, I just had to take a picture!
Along the way, I came across the monument to Walter Weston (the Weston Monument), the British missionary who introduced modern mountaineering to Japan and brought the name “Japanese Alps” to the world. It made me reflect on the history of the area.
After about a 30-minute walk, I finally reached Kamikochi’s iconic Kappa Bridge! The view of the Hotaka Mountain Range from Kappa Bridge was breathtakingly beautiful, and surpassed any scenery I’ve seen today by far!
There are shops around the bridge selling popular soft serve ice cream and beer, making it the perfect treat while enjoying the stunning views!
Afternoon: Transfer from Kamikochi to Hida Takayama
Kamikochi→Hirayu Bus Terminal (20-30 min., 1,500 yen)
Enjoy Hida beef croquettes and other local delicacies at Hirayu Bus Terminal
Hirayu Bus Terminal→Takayama Bus Center (about 1 hour, 1,600 yen)
Evening: Taste the flavors of Hida in Takayama
Taste Hida beef steaks, Takayama ramen, and other specialties of the Hida region
The atmosphere of the old town raises expectations for tomorrow’s festivities.
Day 3: October 9 (Thursday) – The Autumn Takayama Festival has finally arrived!
All day: Experience the traditional Takayama Festival
The Takayama Festival is one of the “Three Great Beautiful Festivals of Japan” along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Chichibu Night Festival in Saitama. The October festival is called the “Hachiman Festival” and features the following attractions:
Gorgeous yatai (floats) being pulled around
Karakuri Dedication: Traditional performing arts featuring elaborate puppets dancing
Yoimatsuri: Fantastic night scenery with lanterns lit
Shopping for local products at morning markets
Takayama 2025 Autumn Festival Schedule
Spanning two days, the Takayama October Festival includes the display of festival floats around Sakurayama Shrine, the local’s procession to the local shrine, two marionette shows, and finally the grand finale at night time where all floats are lit and pulled throughout the town. The night time procession is held only on October 9th.
October 9th: Festival Float Display: 9AM~5PM [Location: here] Marionette Show: 12PM~12:20PM (1st show), 2PM~2:20PM (2nd show) [Location: here] Shrine Procession: 1:30PM ~ 3:30PM Night Time Float Procession: 6:15PM ~ 8:30PM
Marionette Locations: Each float has a unique performance. For example, the Shakkyo marionette includes a lion dance and lion transformation while the Ryujin marionette includes a blast of confetti. On the 9th and 10th, the Hoteidai Float will put on the show two times a day in front of Sakurayama Shrine.
Post-Trip Options
After enjoying the Takayama Festival, you can continue your journey by following these routes:
To Kyoto and Osaka area via Nagoya
Kanazawa and Hokuriku area via Shirakawa-go: You can also enjoy the World Heritage Site of Gassho-Zukuri Village.
Fares for public transportation from Matsumoto to Takayama
For general methods:
Matsumoto→Shinshimashima→Kamikochi： 3,710 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen (transfer set ticket)
Total: 6,710 yen
When using the direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi:
Matsumoto→Kamikochi： 4,450 yen
Kamikochi→Hirayu→Takayama：3,000 yen
Total: 7,450 yen
Points to note when making reservations
Reservations are required for buses to Kamikochi. Early reservations are recommended, especially during the fall foliage season when the buses are crowded!
Accommodations in Takayama are also crowded during the festival, so advance reservations are required!
Don’t forget to bring warm clothes as it gets cold in the mornings and evenings in Kamikochi in October.
Summary:
The Nagano and Gifu areas in October are the best destinations for foreign tourists to experience both the beauty of Japanese autumn and traditional culture. The spectacular view of Kamikochi with its autumn leaves and the solemnity of the Takayama Festival with a history of over 400 years, will surely leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Please take this opportunity to experience the charm of autumn in Japan to your heart’s content!
*Note: All bus services resume reservations when the park opens again. Some reservations cannot be made until March or April. *If you are departing from Takayama, you must buy the ticket for the shuttle bus in person.
If you are planning to do a round trip journey from Tokyo, there is actually a cheaper way to get to Kamikochi if you make one transfer via bus. It can save you up to 10,000 yen.
Kamikochi is one of the most popular national parks in all of Japan, located in the Japanese Alps of Nagano Prefecture. Annually, visitors flock to the area to enjoy the park’s pristine clear waters, fresh air, and hiking routes. Kamikochi can be reached in around 5 hours by bus from Tokyo and 1 hour by bus from central Takayama. Once a year the park closes during the winter season and reopens in spring due to the high amounts of snow. Spring in Kamikochi can still be a bit cool, but flowers and greenery start to take light again. Kamikochi is beautiful year-round, but spring offers unique sights that set it apart from other seasons.
Enjoy Nirinso Flowers Blooming
In Kamikochi there is a famous wildflower which blooms in Spring. The Nirinso is a small, delicate flower that blooms in fields around Kamikochi. You can spot these flowers by taking only a five minute walk from Kappa Bridge, the main photo spot in Kamikochi, or a 10 minute walk from the bus parking lot to Konashidaira Campground.
Nirinso
Nirinso is a wildflower that is part of the buttercup flower family, and is native to Japan and commonly found in the woodlands. The flowers can be spotted at Konashidaira Campground, located next to Kappa Bridge, the main bridge in Kamikochi and bloom starting May.
Enjoy Wildlife Make Their Return
If you’re a fan of birdwatching, in spring, many birds wake from their hibernation and can be seen all around the park. Other wildlife such as monkeys, ducks and weasels can also be seen all around the park as they make their return for spring.
Wild Birds
The Kamikochi area has over 100 variety of birds. Some varieties include the Grey Wagtail, Brown Dipper, Bush Warbler, and Pygmy Woodpecker.
Tips for Spring in Kamikochi:
Cold Temperatures: Although it is spring, temperatures in Kamikochi can still be quite cold especially during early April. It is advisable to wear thermals and prepare for some snow to still be on the ground. There also instances where you can still see snow on the mountains or on the paths during early spring.
Some Hiking Routes in Kamikochi:
Route (from Parking Lot)
Time Taken (one way/way up)
Taisho Pond Trail
1 hour
Mt.Yakedake
3 hours
Karasawa Hutte
5 hours
Opening dates:
Kamikochi reopens April 17th, 2025.
Hotels on the premises will not be opened until later in the month. While day trips are possible, if you truly want to enjoy the Japanese Alps, we recommend booking a hotel on the premises or staying in the nearby onsen area, Okuhida or in Takayama City so you can take your time in Kamikochi. For those with more time on their hands, we recommend staying 2 or more days as the area has many breathtaking hiking routes spread throughout the Nagano and Gifu regions. Okuhida also offers many ryokan (Japanese Inn) and onsen (hot spring bathing) for nature lovers. Buses from Okuhida (Hirayu Bus Terminal) to Kamikochi have resumed on the 17th.
Nearby Attractions/ Hiking Routes
Mt.Norikura
Mt.Norikura is the highest mountain that can be reached by bus (and bicycle!). The mountain is only a 1 1/2 hours away by bus from Kamikochi. To get here, depart from Hirayu Bus Terminal for Honokidaira Bus Terminal. From Honokidaira Bus Terminal, there are buses once an hour that take you to Mt. Norikura.
Okuhida Onsengo
Okuhida Onsengo is a onsen resort area 20 minutes from Kamikochi. Some popular hiking routes include: Mt.Kasagatake, Mt.Yake, and Nishihotakadake.
Now that covid has subsided, a large influx of people have been swarming to Kamikochi as soon as it opens on April 17th. As a result, direct buses from Shinjuku have become difficult to book due to labor regulations for drivers and others starting in April 2024.
We will introduce a second back-up plan for traveling between Shinjuku and Kamikochi. This method is relatively easy to book and inexpensive.
An Overview: Shinjuku to Takayama
In Part 1, we showed you how to take the highway bus from Shinjuku to Takayama and transfer at the Hirayu Bus Terminal [ via Hirayu Bus Terminal (Hirayu Onsen) ], and this time we will show you the backstage procedure for the version via Matsumoto.
You can take a highway bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal or Hino Bus Station to Matsumoto bus terminal and head for Kamikochi.
The breakdown is Shinjuku – Matsumoto Highway Bus: 3,300 – 4,000 yen/one way Reference 4-pack web coupon tickets Basta Shinjuku – Matsumoto 13,000 yen / 4 tickets （3,250 yen / 1 ticket) Hino bus stop – Matsumoto 11,400 yen/4 tickets (2,850 yen/1 ticket) Oniwa – Niijima 590 yen/one way (Matsumoto – Niijima 710 yen/one way) Shinshimadai – Kamikochi Bus Terminal 2,550 yen / one way All buses from Kamikochi to Niijimatsuri on the return trip will be operated on a reservation basis from FY2024.
The direct bus from Shinjuku to Kamikochi, “Sawayaka Shinshu-go,” has variable fares ranging from 8,000 yen to 16,000 yen. Daytime 4-row seat: 8,000-12,000 yen (adult one-way) Daytime flight 3-row seat: 10,000-14,000 yen (adult one-way)
Overnight 4-row seat: 10,000-14,000 yen (adult one-way) Overnight flights 3-row seat: 12,000 yen – 16,000 yen (adult one-way) Fares vary depending on the day of operation. For details, click here.
The typical fee is 12,000-14,000 yen, which is almost half the price.
In other words,
Save more than 10,000 yen round-trip (i.e., more than 10,000 yen savings for a round-trip flight)
We recommend using the “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station” if you plan to stay the night before or after in Matsumoto, or if you plan to shop or eat at Matsumoto.
If you stay the night before the tour, you can take the “National Park Liner,” a direct bus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi that departs from the Matsumoto Bus Terminal at 5:30 am and arrives at the Kamikochi Bus Terminal at 7:05 am, allowing you to enjoy Kamikochi in the early morning. >> >> Details of National Park Liner
Express buses and trains generally use the “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station” for connections. The bus terminal and train station are a short 5-minute walk away.
However, as shown in the map below, it is necessary to make a round trip between the Matsumoto Interchange and Matsumoto Station, resulting in waste. Therefore, if you wish to go directly from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kamikochi or from Kamikochi directly to Tokyo (Shinjuku), we recommend that you transfer at the “Matsumoto Inter-mae Bus Stop” and “Oba Station” on the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line.
The bus stop in front of the Matsumoto Interchange on the return trip (toward Shinjuku) has a waiting room that was renovated in June 2019 and is equipped with air conditioning, restrooms, and 9 charging stations (outlets, USB) for cell phones and other devices.
The round-trip fare via Matsumoto is more than 10,000 yen less than the direct bus service from Shinjuku to Kamikochi. We also recommend that you spend the night before or after your stay in Matsumoto with the money you save. In this case, please use “Matsumoto Bus Terminal” and “Matsumoto Station”.
Matsumoto Interchange Bus Stop ⇔ Kamikochi Line Oba Station
If are routing to Oba Station using Google Maps, you will be directed to take the long way around as shown in the map below.
Google maps routes you this way because there is no pedestrian crossing at Horimae, the intersection just after getting off the bus. The shortest way is to get to this stop is to follow the red arrow in the photo below. You cannot cross Route 158.
There is an underground promenade that does not appear on Google Maps that can be crossed safely and easily.
The underground promenade was well maintained and cleaned, and was relatively bright and safe.
From Oniwa Station, take the Kamikochi Line bound for Niijima-eki and arrive at the last stop, Niijima-eki, in about 25 minutes. Niijima Station is the closest train station to Kamikochi, and from here it is a 65-minute bus ride to the Kamikochi Bus Terminal. When boarding the Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line, please pick up a numbered ticket at the entrance. It will be used when you get off the train. Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line does not accept IC cards such as Suica. Please have coins ready.
Matsumoto Railway Kamikochi Line “Oba Station” ⇒ “Matsumoto Interchange-mae Bus Stop
Highwaybus.com allows you to change/cancel reservations and select seats for highway buses.
There are approximately 24 round trips/day by express bus from Matsumoto to Shinjuku ↔ Matsumoto. For reservations ↓↓↓↓ Highwaybus.com
Futaba service area by taking a break on the way
Recommended Hotels near Matsumoto Bus Terminal
These are recommended accommodations that our staff actually stayed at and found to be highly cost-effective.
Tabino Hotel lit Matsumoto A modern, stylish budget hotel specializing in overnight stays, located directly near the Matsumoto bus terminal.
Some benefits:
Drink service for early check-in
Tea and rice for the evening meal service
Large baths modeled after Shirakotsu Onsen hot springs
Children (elementary schoolers and younger) can stay for FREE!
Hotel M Matsumoto Located right in front of the Matsumoto Bus Terminal on the 6th floor of a building that also houses Maruzen Bookstore and Daiso, this capsule and business hotel offers the best value for money.
Some benefits:
Bright and clean, its appealing for women solo-travelers
