Jazmin Li
Nagano, Japan, is a realm where tradition and nature intertwine, offering an escape like no other. Travellers intending to explore the breathtaking region of Nagano have several options at their disposal. While Nagano Prefecture does not have any international airports, the closest airport with domestic flights is Matsumoto Airport, approximately 77km southwest of Nagano City. For international visitors, Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports serve as the primary transit hubs, with a journey time of around 80-95 minutes to Nagano via the Shinkansen.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nearest airport to Nagano | Matsumoto Airport |
| Distance from Nagano City | 77km |
| Type of airport | Small, regional airport with a single terminal building |
| Transport options to Nagano City | Shuttle bus to Matsumoto Station, then the Limited Express Shinano train |
| Transport time to Nagano City | Around 1.5 hours |
| Airlines | Japan Airlines, Korean, Russian and Chinese charter airlines |
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What You'll Learn
Matsumoto Airport is the closest airport to Nagano
While the Nagano Prefecture does not have an international airport, the closest airport to Nagano is the Matsumoto Airport (MMJ / RJAF). Located in Matsumoto, Japan, the airport is 77 kilometres from the centre of Nagano, Japan. Travellers can take a shuttle bus from the airport to the Matsumoto Station, and then take the Limited Express Shinano to the Nagano Station. The Limited Express Shinano is one of the many services that run every day, taking around 50 minutes to reach the destination. Local services are also available and take around 1.5 hours.
Matsumoto Airport is a small, regional airport with a single basic terminal building. The airport is served by Japan Airlines, which operates seasonal services to Osaka Itami Airport using Embraer E170 aircraft. Airlines from Korea, Russia, and China also occasionally fly charter flights to the airport.
The airport and the surrounding region cater to mountaineers during the summer months and skiers during the winter months. The region is rich in facilities and winter activities, including onsen spas and snow festivals. The iconic Zenko-ji Temple, a millennium-old pilgrimage site, offers a glimpse into Japan's spiritual culture. Matsumoto Castle, with its black façade and ancient artefacts, is another popular attraction in the region.
For international visitors, the Tokyo Haneda and Narita Airports serve as the primary transit hubs. Upon arrival, travellers can take advantage of Japan's efficient public transport system and dedicated ski resort shuttles to reach their destinations in Nagano.
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It is 77km from the centre of Nagano
There is indeed an airport in Nagano, known as the Matsumoto Airport (MMJ). However, it is important to note that this airport primarily serves general aviation and has limited commercial flight services. For those seeking regular commercial flights, the closest option is the Toyama Airport, located about 130 km away from the city centre.
Now, let's focus on the distance between the airport and the city centre. The Matsumoto Airport is situated 77 kilometres from the heart of Nagano. This distance translates to a travel time of approximately one hour and thirty minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point within the city.
When planning your journey between Nagano's city centre and the airport, there are a few transportation options to consider. Renting a car or taking a taxi provides flexibility and can be convenient if you are travelling with luggage or have a group. The drive will take you through some scenic routes, and you can expect a mix of highways and local roads, depending on your chosen route.
Alternatively, if you prefer public transportation, bus services are available. The airport shuttle bus directly connects the airport to the Nagano Station, offering a comfortable journey. The travel time for the bus is approximately two hours, and it provides a more economical option compared to a taxi or rental car. It is important to plan your trip and check the bus schedule in advance to ensure a smooth connection.
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Travellers can use the Shinkansen to get to Nagano from Tokyo
Nagano Prefecture does not have an international airport. Travellers intending to visit Nagano from abroad will have to fly into Tokyo's Narita or Haneda airports and then make their way to Nagano. Fortunately, there are several travel options available to get from Tokyo to Nagano, including the Shinkansen.
The Hokuriku Shinkansen connects Tokyo and Nagano. The one-way trip takes 80-100 minutes and costs about 8,000 yen, and there are multiple trains per hour. The Japan Rail Pass, the JR East Nagano Niigata Area Pass, and the JR East Pass all cover the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line. The JR East Pass is a good option for those only visiting the Nagano and Niigata regions, as it is cheaper than the full JR Pass and covers multiple stations in the area. The full JR Pass is better value for those planning to use the Shinkansen multiple times and over long distances, such as travellers visiting several cities in Japan.
There are two types of trains on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line that go from Tokyo to Nagano: the Asama and the Hakutaka. The Asama stops at all stations between Tokyo and Nagano, while the Hakutaka stops at different stations between the two cities depending on the specific service. Both trains have both reserved and non-reserved seating.
The Shinkansen is not the only way to get to Nagano from Tokyo. There are also frequent buses between the two cities, with one-way trips taking about 3.5 hours. Conventional bus companies charge about 4,000 yen for the trip, while discount operators like Willer Express offer fares starting at around 2,000 yen.
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Nagano doesn't have an international airport
Nagano, Japan, is a region known for its scenic beauty, ski slopes, and winter allure. While it boasts many attractions, Nagano does not have an international airport. The closest airport to Nagano is Matsumoto Airport, which is approximately 77km from Nagano City. This small, regional airport with a single terminal building offers domestic flights and seasonal international charter flights.
Matsumoto Airport is a gateway to the wonders of Nagano, providing easy access to the region's attractions. Visitors can take advantage of the efficient Japanese public transport network, with trains, buses, and taxis available from the airport to nearby destinations such as Nagano City and Matsumoto. For added convenience, private charters can also be arranged directly from the airport.
Although Nagano lacks an international airport, travellers have several options for reaching the region. International visitors can fly into Tokyo's Narita or Haneda airports, which serve as the primary transit hubs for those visiting Nagano. From there, a range of transportation options, including the Shinkansen, direct buses, or car rentals, offer seamless connections to Nagano.
The journey from Tokyo's airports to Nagano is both efficient and scenic. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, provides a quick and comfortable option, with the journey taking approximately 80 to 95 minutes. Alternatively, travellers can opt for a direct bus or rental car, although these options may take longer.
Despite the absence of an international airport in Nagano, the accessibility of the region through nearby airports and efficient transportation networks makes it a convenient destination for visitors from around the world. Whether arriving through Matsumoto Airport or Tokyo's international hubs, travellers can easily embark on their adventures in Nagano, exploring its natural wonders, cultural sites, and winter activities.
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Narita and Haneda airports in Tokyo are the primary transit hubs for international visitors
While Nagano Prefecture does not have any international airports, international visitors can reach the region via Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports, which serve as the primary transit hubs. From there, travellers can take advantage of Japan's efficient public transport or dedicated ski resort shuttles to reach their destinations in Nagano.
Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) are the two airports in the Tokyo area. Narita Airport is located in the Chiba prefecture, about 43 miles from Tokyo Station, and it takes about 1.5 hours to reach central Tokyo. Haneda Airport, on the other hand, is the only airport in the Tokyo district, located just 11 miles from Tokyo Station and 30 minutes or less from the city centre.
In terms of passenger traffic, Haneda Airport is the busiest, handling over 78 million passengers annually, while Narita handles more than 30 million. Haneda's international terminal opened in 2010, and it has since become one of the world's busiest airports. Several airlines, including All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, have shifted most of their international flight operations from Narita to Haneda due to its more convenient location.
Both airports offer a range of transportation options for travellers. Narita Airport is accessible via the limousine bus or the Narita Express train, while Haneda Airport offers the limousine bus, Keikyu train line, or monorail. However, it is important to note that the monorail at Haneda does not serve the most popular areas.
For travellers heading to Nagano, the closest airport with domestic flights is Matsumoto Airport, located about 77 kilometres southwest of Nagano City. The airport caters to mountaineers during the summer and skiers during the winter months.
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Frequently asked questions
Nagano Prefecture does not host any international airports, but there are several airports nearby that serve as gateways to the region.
The closest airport to Nagano is Matsumoto Airport, located around 77km from the centre of Nagano City.
For international visitors, Tokyo's Narita and Haneda airports serve as the primary transit hubs.
To reach Nagano City from the airport, take the shuttle bus into Matsumoto. From Matsumoto Station, take the Limited Express Shinano to Nagano Station.
Nagano is known for its snowy slopes, history, and tradition. Some notable attractions include the Zenko-ji Temple, a millennium-old pilgrimage site, and Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure from the samurai era.
