Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport MMJ

Shinshu-Matsumoto Airport is the regional airport of Nagano Prefecture. It lies about 9 km southwest of central Matsumoto, on the border between Matsumoto and Shiojiri, and serves an area of mountains, castles and ski resorts. It is small: around 112,000 passengers used it in 2015. At 657 metres above sea level it is the highest commercial airport in Japan, surrounded by mountainous terrain, which limits the types of aircraft that can operate here.

Terminals

There is a single passenger building, in service since 1994, when the runway was extended to 2,000 metres to take jets. Arrivals and departures share the same roof, so there are no transfers or distances to work out.

Airlines and destinations

Fuji Dream Airlines is the main carrier, with flights to Sapporo (Chitose), Fukuoka and Kobe. Japan Airlines has offered a seasonal link to Osaka (Itami). All flights are domestic, and the schedule changes with the season.

Services

This is a small terminal built for a few flights a day: do not expect the shops and restaurants of a large airport, and buy anything you need in Matsumoto before you go.

Tips

With so few departures, check the timetable before planning your trip and allow extra time if you have an onward connection. In winter, cold and snow in the area can affect flights. If you cannot find a flight, Matsumoto can also be reached by limited express train from Tokyo on the Chuo Line.