JR Matsumoto Station's Beloved 'Matsumotooo~' Announcement to Disappear, Evoking Sadness on Social Media

The iconic and long-loved station announcement at JR Matsumoto Station, characterized by its drawn-out 'Matsumotooo~,' is set to cease on November 16, 2025, a revelation that has sparked a wave of lament on social media.

According to reports from Shinano Mainichi Shimbun Digital, this distinctive announcement, known for its extended vocalization at the end of the word, has been cherished by passengers for approximately 40 years. It wasn't just railway enthusiasts who loved it; general tourists also felt it was a symbol of their arrival in Matsumoto, saying things like, 'Hearing this really makes it feel like I've arrived in Shinshu,' and 'It made me feel like I was finally here.' Some even affectionately nicknamed the voice 'Matsumoto Oba-san' (Matsumoto Auntie).

The reason for the discontinuation of the announcement is cited as the renewal of broadcasting equipment. With the final broadcast scheduled for November 16, 2025, many users have reacted to the news with comments such as, 'This is huge news,' 'It's too sad,' and 'It will lose its character.' Many recall the unique call 'Matsumotooo~ Matsumotooo~, this is the final stop, Matsumoto,' often paired with the phrase 'This train is being shunted, so passengers cannot board,' indicating a deep sense of loss.

JR East has issued a warning to fans attempting to record the final broadcasts, urging them to refrain from using long poles for recording within station premises due to the presence of high-voltage overhead lines. The 'Matsumotooo~' voice, etched into the hearts of many, will disappear with the arrival of a new era, but its memory is sure to be passed down through generations.

The Context

For non-Japanese readers, unique station announcements, often with distinctive voices or local accents, are a beloved part of the railway experience in Japan. These announcements often become symbols of the regions they represent, contributing to the local character and providing a memorable 'sense of arrival' for travelers. Matsumoto, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a significant gateway city, known for Matsumoto Castle and its proximity to the Japanese Alps. The 'Matsumotooo~' announcement, with its specific, drawn-out pronunciation, was more than just an informative message; it was an auditory landmark, signaling the successful completion of a journey to this particular city. Its four-decade-long history means it has been a constant for generations of travelers and locals, making its disappearance a poignant moment that marks the end of an era for many who associate it with their personal memories of visiting or living in Matsumoto. The equipment update, while a practical necessity, often means the loss of these unique, human-element touches that digital systems typically can't replicate with the same charm.