Trains to and from Matsumoto

Hi, I've been searching for train timetables for my Matsumoto side trip on 9 October 07.
From http://www.jorudan.co.jp/index.html, I was told that I can catch the [特急]あずさ32号 from Matsumoto to Shinjuku at 5.18pm. However, when I searched at the JR east website (http://www.jreast-timetable.jp/0708/train/19500/19537.html), it appears that this particular doesn't run in October. Can you please confirm if my understanding is correct, and suggest an alternative fast way to return to Shinjuku or Ikebukuro around 5pm? I will be using the JR East pass.

Moomoocow,

The date restriction only applies to the service from Minami-Otari to Matsumoto in the left-hand column of that page. The train runs normally from Matsumoto to Shinjuku (and onward to Chiba) daily.

To add if you want to leave around 5pm there,s a 4:59 (16:59) departure on Azusa 30.

Hi.

Thanks for the info.

Is the whole trip covered by the JR East pass?

Yes it is wholly within the JR East service area.

Moomoocow,

Is the whole trip covered by the JR East pass?

Yes.

Thanks a lot for your help.

I don't know if the Azusa from Shinjuku to Matsumoto is anything like the Shinano from Nagoya to Matsumoto, but if it is, take your ginger or Dramamine! Maybe someone who is familiar with both could comment.