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Which side of the plane to sit from Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok) to New Chitose Airport (Sapporo)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the diverse landscapes of mainland Asia and the stunning volcanic geography of Japan, including potential views of the Japanese Alps and the iconic Mount Yotei during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Bangkok Cityscape

Bird's-eye view of the Chao Phraya River and the dense urban architecture of Bangkok during the initial climb.

⛰️

Annamite Range

Dramatic views of the rugged, forest-covered mountains across Laos and Vietnam shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

🏔️

Taiwanese Peaks

If the route passes west of the island, you can see the towering 3,000-meter peaks of the Central Mountain Range.

🌋

Japanese Alps

As the flight nears Honshu, the snow-capped peaks of the Hida and Kiso mountain ranges provide a spectacular vista.

🗻

Mount Yotei

Known as 'Ezo Fuji', this symmetrical volcanic cone is a landmark highlight during the final descent into Sapporo.

Book an overnight flight to catch the sunrise over the Japanese coastline. During the winter months, the left side provides the best view of the 'Snow Country' landscape as you cross into Hokkaido. For the best chance to see Mount Fuji (though often distant), choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Gulf of Thailand

Expansive views of the emerald waters and the coastal regions of Chonburi and Rayong during departure.

🏝️

Ryukyu Islands

Depending on the airway, you may spot the coral-fringed islands of the Okinawa chain scattered in the Pacific.

🌅

Pacific Sunrise

On the typical red-eye schedule, this side offers an unobstructed view of the sun rising over the Pacific Ocean.

🏖️

Tohoku Coastline

Aerial perspectives of the Sanriku Coast's unique jagged cliffs and bays as the plane heads north toward Hokkaido.

The right side is ideal for passengers who prefer the calming aesthetics of the open ocean and sunrise. In summer, this side avoids the harsh afternoon sun during the latter half of the flight. Be aware that most of the Japanese mainland will be on the opposite side, limiting views to the coastline and sea.

Top Activities in Sapporo
Route Information

Distance: 5,073 km (3,152 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 58 min

Departure: BKK (13.681099891662598, 100.74700164794922)

Arrival: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Route Type: International

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