For travelers with a layover in Gifu, the proximity of QGU to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Local Bus / Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave QGU:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Japan. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Gifu takes about 50 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is JPY. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Gifu:
Start with Gifu Castle & Mt. Kinka Ropeway. You can see the main features in a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Gifu Park. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside QGU, you can spend time at Gifu-Kakamigahara Air and Space Museum or try Gifu Air Base Plane Spotting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting from QGU to Gifu
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Bus / Taxi | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Bus / Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Hida Beef Restaurant (Gifu Station Area) and Sushiro Gifu Minami are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Gifu.
- At the airport: Marugame Seimen Kakamigahara and Sukiya Kakamigahara Asahimachi will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Gifu layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$11 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$27 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Gifu, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at QGU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Gifu or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Storing Your Luggage at Gifu Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at QGU may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gifu’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at QGU
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, QGU has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Gifu doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from QGU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.