Loading map...

CMB destination photo
NRT destination photo

CMBNRT

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic scenery, featuring the mountainous terrain of Southeast Asia, the high peaks of Taiwan, and the iconic view of Mount Fuji during the final approach into Japan.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🇱🇰

Colombo Coastline

Aerial views of the Sri Lankan coastline and the Laccadive Sea immediately after takeoff.

🏞️

Mekong River

Visuals of the winding Mekong River as the flight crosses through Thailand and Laos.

⛰️

Taiwanese Alps

The rugged, cloud-piercing Central Mountain Range of Taiwan during the mid-flight transition.

🗻

Mount Fuji

The best side to spot Japan's most famous peak to the west during the descent into Narita.

🏙️

Tokyo Bay Area

Vast urban sprawl and industrial ports visible as the plane maneuvers for landing.

Choose the left side specifically for the chance to see Mount Fuji; it will appear on the horizon roughly 30 to 45 minutes before landing. On clear days, the mountainous landscapes of northern Vietnam and Taiwan are spectacular. Since many flights from Colombo arrive in the morning, the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare for your photos.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌅

Pacific Sunrise

Breathtaking views of the sun rising over the Pacific Ocean on overnight flight routes.

🏝️

Hainan Island

Potential sightings of the tropical landscape of southern China's island province.

🐠

Ryukyu Islands

Aerial views of the turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding the Okinawa island chain.

🗾

Boso Peninsula

The dramatic cliffs and forested hills of the Chiba coastline during the final approach.

🌊

Deep Ocean Trenches

Beautiful deep-blue gradients of the Philippine Sea and the edge of the Pacific.

The right side is the premier choice for 'sunrise seekers' on overnight departures from Colombo. As you enter Japanese airspace, you'll have a better view of the scattered southern islands. However, be prepared for significant sun glare during the morning hours of the approach. For the best views of the Japanese coastline, look out during the final 20 minutes of the flight.

Top Activities in Tokyo
Route Information

Distance: 6,894 km (4,284 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 7 min

Departure: CMB (7.180759906768799, 79.88410186767578)

Arrival: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.