Matsumoto Airport

Matsumoto Airport is not merely a transit point, but the highest altitude airport in Japan, situated amidst picturesque peaks. Landing here transforms into a genuine excursion: the aircraft descends among majestic mountain ranges, revealing breathtaking panoramas to passengers even before touching the ground. This compact and cosy airport allows you to avoid the hustle of megacities and begin your journey through Nagano Prefecture in an atmosphere of complete tranquillity.

The airport's main pride is its unique geographical location at an altitude of 657.5 metres above sea level. Thanks to this fact and its open observation deck, it has become a magnet for aviation enthusiasts and photographers eager to capture a shot of a liner against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps. The compactness of the terminal guarantees the absence of long queues: all pre-flight procedures are conducted quickly and in an organised manner, saving travellers time.

A significant advantage for those travelling by car is the availability of free parking within walking distance of the terminal — an option rarely found in Japanese airports. Convenient navigation, shops with unique local souvenirs, and high transport accessibility make Matsumoto Airport an ideal and comfortable starting point for exploring the region's mountain resorts and hot springs.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Matsumoto Airport (MMJ). We recommend checking the official resources for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: The most complete and current information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the website matsumoto-airport.co.jp. The site is available in Japanese and English.
• Information Service Phone: For general enquiries, you can call +81 263-57-8818. Please consider the time difference when calling from another country.
• Airport Address: 6350 Imai, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1132, Japan.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general enquiries. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on the official website.
• Social Media: Matsumoto Airport does not maintain official pages on popular international social networks. The official website remains the primary source of news and updates.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost items within the terminal, please contact the airport information desk. If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support: For assistance with any matters related to your stay at the airport, please apply to the information counter in the terminal or call the information service.

Getting to Matsumoto Airport (MMJ), the air gateway to the city of the same name in Japan, is quite simple. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of the centre of Matsumoto, and travellers have several convenient transport options available, allowing them to choose the best one in terms of time, budget, and comfort level.

The most popular and budget-friendly method is the shuttle bus. Specialised buses run between the airport and the Matsumoto Bus Terminal, which is located next to the railway station. The journey takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The fare usually costs a few hundred yen, making this a very economical option. The bus schedule is generally coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, making their use maximally convenient.

For those who value comfort, travel with a large amount of luggage, or are travelling with family, a taxi or pre-booked transfer would be an excellent choice. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 25-30 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, potentially reaching several thousand yen, but this is compensated by the convenience of door-to-door service. Taxis can be found at designated stands in the city or ordered through your hotel.

If you plan to actively explore the picturesque surroundings of Nagano Prefecture, it is worth considering car rental. Offices of several major rental companies operate in Matsumoto. With a rental car, you can reach the airport with maximum freedom and according to your own schedule. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided on the premises, where cars can be left for both short and long periods.

Matsumoto Airport (MMJ), also known as Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport, is distinguished by its compactness and passenger convenience. It consists of a single three-story terminal that serves both domestic and rare international charter flights. Thanks to its small size and thoughtful layout, navigation through the building is intuitive, and there is no need for transfers between terminals.

The terminal structure is very simple and logical. The Ground Floor (1st Floor) combines the check-in and arrival areas. Airline counters, the baggage claim area, and a tourist information centre are located here. The Second Floor is the departure area. After checking in, passengers proceed here to go through security screening. The main waiting lounge, several shops with souvenirs and locally produced goods, as well as a cafe where one can have a snack before the flight, are also located here.

One of the pleasant features of the airport is the observation deck on the Third Floor. It offers a magnificent view of the runway against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps — an excellent place to pass the time. Due to the low passenger traffic, check-in and security procedures here are very quick. As a rule, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 1–1.5 hours before a domestic flight departure to check in luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Getting lost in one small building is practically impossible. The friendly staff and general atmosphere of calm make staying at this airport comfortable and eliminate the stress often associated with major aviation hubs in Japan. Simplicity and efficiency are the key characteristics of the Matsumoto Airport terminal.

The history of Matsumoto Airport (MMJ) begins in 1965, when it was opened as a small regional airfield. In the first decades of its existence, it served primarily local flights on small propeller aircraft, playing an important but modest role in the transport network of Nagano Prefecture. The original runway was significantly shorter and did not allow for accommodating large aircraft.

A turning point in the development of the air harbour was 1994. In anticipation of the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, the airport underwent a massive reconstruction. The runway was extended to 2,000 metres, allowing it to receive modern jet aircraft. At the same time, a new, more spacious and functional passenger terminal was built. It was from this year that the airport began serving its first international charter flights, significantly expanding its flight geography and strengthening its status as an important air gateway to the region.

In 2004, the airport received its modern official name — Shinshu-Matsumoto, to emphasise its significance for the entire historical region of Shinshu, as Nagano Prefecture was formerly called. The main and most interesting fact related to the airport is its location. It is the highest altitude airport in Japan, situated at an elevation of 657.5 metres above sea level. This is not only a technical feature but also a gift for travellers, who can enjoy stunning views of the Japanese Alps directly from the aircraft window.

Matsumoto Airport (MMJ) offers passengers all necessary amenities to make waiting for a flight comfortable. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-organised. Here you can dine at a restaurant famous for local cuisine, including the renowned Soba noodles. Also at your disposal is a souvenir shop where you can purchase gifts and memorabilia from the region, as well as a convenience store.

For those who prefer to await their flight in a quieter environment, a paid premium waiting lounge operates at the airport. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. For passenger convenience, charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting areas.

An ATM is installed in the airport building, but currency exchange services may be limited. It is strongly recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance in major cities or international airports. In case of need, there is a first aid room in the terminal where basic medical support can be provided.

Matsumoto Airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and special restrooms. If necessary, a wheelchair rental service is available. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is provided, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment.

Business travellers can utilise the conference room rental service for meetings or negotiations. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options — from budget to premium — can be found in the city of Matsumoto itself, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi.

Matsumoto Airport (MMJ), being a compact regional airport, offers several convenient dining options located in the main terminal. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will find both a place for a full meal and an opportunity for a quick snack before departure.

All dining establishments at Matsumoto Airport are located in the public area (landside), before security control. This means you can visit them even if you are seeing someone off or have arrived at the airport early.

For a full lunch or dinner, the "Jokamachi" restaurant operates on the third floor. It offers views of the runway and the surrounding mountains. The menu features dishes of Japanese and European cuisine. Special attention should be paid to local specialities — be sure to try "Shinshu Soba" noodles, for which Nagano Prefecture is famous. This is an excellent opportunity to experience regional cuisine. The menu usually also includes Teishoku sets (set meals) and curry.

If you are short on time and need a quick snack, "Café Well" is located on the second floor. Here you can enjoy coffee, tea, and other beverages, as well as light snacks or dessert. Additionally, the airport souvenir shops sell various snacks, sandwiches, onigiri, and, of course, local sweets that are convenient to take on board.

Regarding specialised dietary requirements (Halal, vegetarian, gluten-free), choices may be limited. Muslim travellers and vegetarians should carefully inquire about ingredients, as traditional Japanese sauces and broths often contain mirin (alcohol) or fish stock. The price range in the airport establishments is moderate, comparable to average prices in city cafes. Restaurant and cafe opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule and may close after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Matsumoto Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. The airport is not very large, which makes it quite easy to navigate, but proper preparation never hurts.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights, which make up the majority of the Matsumoto Airport schedule, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing. If possible, use online check-in on your airline's website — this will save time at the counters. Security screening usually proceeds quickly and in an organised manner, as is customary in Japan.

Seat Selection: The airport's location in the heart of the Japanese Alps opens up stunning opportunities for photographers and nature lovers. When flying out of or into Matsumoto, try to book a window seat. In clear weather, you are guaranteed breathtaking views of the mountain ranges, which will be a wonderful start or end to your journey.

Hand Luggage and Customs: Rules for carrying liquids are standard: containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited. If you are departing on an international charter flight, remember Japan's strict rules regarding the export of certain items and the necessity of declaring expensive goods. Upon entering the country, be prepared for thorough customs control, especially regarding food products (meat, fruit, vegetables).

Transit Passengers: Matsumoto Airport mainly serves direct flights and is not a major transfer hub. If you have a connection planned, it will likely be indirect. This means you will have to collect your luggage and go through check-in and security screening again. Please factor this in when planning the time between flights.

Savings and Useful Tips:

• To save on travel to or from the airport, use the shuttle bus that connects the airport with the city of Matsumoto. It is significantly cheaper than a taxi.
• Prices for food and drinks in Japanese airports are generally not heavily inflated, but buying snacks in advance will help save your budget.
• In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information. The small terminal has a souvenir shop where you can buy local delicacies, and an observation deck on the top floor offering views of the runway and mountains.