Nagano and Matsumoto Rental Area Guide [2026 Edition]—Comprehensive Guide to Rent Prices, Living Environment, and Moving Information
A 2026 guide to rental areas in Nagano and Matsumoto cities. Detailed information on rent prices, access, and snow-country rental considerations for major areas including the Zenko-ji Temple precinct and surroundings of Matsumoto Castle.
Nagano Prefecture is a popular destination for relocating from the greater Tokyo area, with its two major cities—Nagano and Matsumoto—each offering distinct appeal. Thanks to abundant natural environments, relatively low living costs, and comprehensive relocation support programs, they have become notable destinations for remote work relocation. Based on the 2026 rental market, this article provides detailed coverage of the major areas in both cities.
Nagano City Rental Areas Overview
Nagano City is the central hub of the Hokusin region with a population of approximately 360,000. Centered on Nagano Station, the area concentrates commercial facilities and government offices, with excellent access—about 80 minutes to Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen.
Nagano Station Area and City Center concentrate commercial and business functions. Shopping malls, restaurants, and hospitals are within walking distance, offering the highest convenience in the city. 1-room apartments average around ¥41,000–56,000. Popular with single occupants and couples.
Zenko-ji Temple Precinct and Shiroyama are tourist and cultural districts with historic streetscapes and cultural facilities. Popular with those who prefer Nagano's distinctive calm atmosphere and those in cafe and craft-related work. Rent is slightly higher, with prices around ¥46,000–62,000 not uncommon, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet environment.
Shinano-i and Kawachu-jima Areas are residential neighborhoods in southern Nagano City. The JR Shinano-i Line connects to Nagano Station in about 10–15 minutes. With plenty of large commercial facilities and supermarkets, it is popular with families. 1-room apartments generally fall in the slightly lower ¥36,000–49,000 price range compared to city averages.
Matsumoto City Rental Areas Overview
Matsumoto City is located in central Nagano Prefecture and is a castle town of approximately 230,000 people known for its National Treasure, Matsumoto Castle. The JR Shinano-i Line, Oito Line, and Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line serve the area. In recent years, with increased relocations and tourism, cafes and restaurants have proliferated, earning it recognition nationwide as a "regional city people want to live in."
Matsumoto Station Area and City Center concentrate commercial facilities, restaurants, and clinics. Historic streetscapes around Matsumoto Castle are within walking distance, with good access to tourist attractions. 1-room apartments average around ¥43,000–59,000. It is especially popular with relocators and single occupants.
Nagisa and Degawa Areas are residential neighborhoods within walking or cycling distance of Matsumoto Station. Multiple large supermarkets provide high convenience for families with children. Rent ranges from approximately ¥39,000–53,000. Properties are available to suit a broad range of needs, from single occupants to families.
Murai, Sasaka, and Hada Areas are suburban residential and agricultural areas. While inconvenient without a car, spacious properties are available at low prices in a nature-surrounded environment. Properties with vegetable gardens and countryside living options are also available, ideal for those seeking agricultural lifestyles. 1-room apartments typically range from ¥31,000–43,000.
Snow-Country-Specific Rental Checkpoints
When viewing properties in Nagano and Matsumoto, "snow management" is a critical confirmation point. Verify in advance the snow removal responsibility (typically the property management company or landlord's responsibility, though some properties require tenant handling), the presence of snowmelt equipment at entrances and parking areas, and freeze-protection heaters for water heaters and pipes.
Heating systems are equally important—verify whether the property has only air conditioning or includes an oil heater, and whether radiant floor heating is available. Winter utility costs can be 1.5–2 times higher than in Tokyo, so we recommend checking energy efficiency ratings and thermal insulation performance during your viewing.
Relocation Support and Settlement Incentive Programs
Nagano Prefecture, Nagano City, and Matsumoto City offer comprehensive support programs for remote-work relocators. Programs such as Nagano Prefecture's "New Lifestyle and Relocation Promotion Initiative" and relocation subsidies from each city (up to approximately ¥1 million) may be available.
These programs typically come with conditions such as "relocation from Tokyo's 23 special wards" and "continued work in urban areas via remote work." When considering relocation, we recommend first contacting each city's relocation information office to confirm eligibility requirements and application timelines.
Transportation and Living Infrastructure
From Matsumoto City, the JR Limited Express Azusa train reaches Shinjuku in approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. Nagano City is served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen, connecting Tokyo, Omiya, and Nagano in about 80 minutes. While both cities' public transportation is primarily bus and train-based, car-free living in suburban areas can be challenging.
When selecting properties, it is important to narrow your choices considering whether you will have a car. In city centers, car-free living is feasible using walking, bicycles, and public transportation, but car dependency increases as you move to suburban areas. Plan your property search while envisioning your post-relocation lifestyle.
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