Matsumoto, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Matsumoto, Japan? If you're planning to go to Matsumoto, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Matsumoto, Japan

Based on the climate and weather in Matsumoto, Japan, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Matsumoto, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Matsumoto, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Matsumoto, Japan by month

January

If you are traveling to Matsumoto in January, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

February in Matsumoto can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

March for Matsumoto is cold. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Matsumoto is cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

May in Matsumoto is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

June in Matsumoto is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

July in this region is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

August here is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

September is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

October in Matsumoto can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in Matsumoto is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

December in Matsumoto can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsumoto. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit the Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

If you plan to visit Uchibuse River French Waterfall, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Matsumoto, Japan

Matsumoto is a city located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Known for its historic castle, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Matsumoto has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions you shouldn't miss when visiting Matsumoto.

1. Matsumoto Castle

Matsumoto Castle is perhaps the most iconic attraction of Matsumoto. This historic Japanese castle, also known as the "Crow Castle" due to its black exterior, was built in the 16th century and is one of the only original fortresses left in Japan. Visitors can climb the narrow staircase to the top of the castle and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

2. Nakamachi Street

Nakamachi Street is a charming pedestrian street lined with traditional wooden houses, art galleries, and craft shops. The street is especially beautiful at night when the lanterns illuminate the shops and create a magical atmosphere.

3. Matsumoto City Museum of Art

Matsumoto City Museum of Art is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The museum showcases works by renowned Japanese artists, including Yayoi Kusama and Katsushika Hokusai. The building itself is also noteworthy, with its modern architecture and beautiful gardens.

4. Hot Springs

Matsumoto is home to several hot spring resorts offering visitors a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Kamikochi Onsen is known for its open-air baths with stunning mountain views, while Asama Hot Springs offers a range of indoor and outdoor baths with natural spring water.

5. Kaichi Gakko Schoolhouse

Kaichi Gakko Schoolhouse is a 19th-century school building that has been converted into a museum showcasing the history of education in Japan. The museum features historical artifacts, including textbooks and teaching materials from the Edo and Meiji periods.

6. Joyama Park

Joyama Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Matsumoto. The park offers visitors stunning views of the Northern Alps and is especially popular during cherry blossom season when the park is covered in pink flowers.

7. Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum

Matsumoto Folkcraft Museum is home to a collection of traditional Japanese ceramics, textiles, and lacquerware. The collection includes pieces from around Japan, as well as local crafts from the Matsumoto area.

In conclusion, Matsumoto has a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to every taste. From the stunning Matsumoto Castle to the relaxing hot springs, the city offers a perfect blend of historical and natural beauty that will leave visitors with an unforgettable experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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