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CTS destination photo
HNA destination photo

CTSHNA

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of Hokkaido's volcanic landscape and the majestic peaks of the Tohoku region, including iconic calderas and stratovolcanoes.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Lake Shikotsu

A stunning high-clarity caldera lake surrounded by mountains, visible shortly after takeoff.

🗻

Mount Komagatake

The distinctive double-peaked volcano near Hakodate visible as you leave Hokkaido.

🌊

Tsugaru Strait

A clear view of the body of water separating Japan's two largest islands.

🏔️

Mount Iwaki

Known as 'Tsugaru Fuji' for its perfect conical shape, it dominates the Aomori skyline.

🥣

Lake Towada

On clear days, see the massive double-caldera lake situated on the border of Aomori and Akita.

This side is best for volcanic photography. Keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes for Lake Shikotsu. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Ou Mountain Range and Mount Iwaki. In winter, the snow-covered peaks are exceptionally clear.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Tomakomai Coast

View the industrial port and the Pacific coastline of Hokkaido immediately after departure.

🪓

Shimokita Peninsula

Spot the unique 'axe-shaped' peninsula of Aomori as the flight crosses the Tsugaru Strait.

⚓

Hachinohe Port

Observe the sprawling industrial coastline and busy shipping lanes of eastern Aomori.

⛰️

Kitakami Mountains

See the rolling ridges of Japan's oldest mountain range as you approach Hanamaki.

Choose this side for early morning flights to catch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. During descent, look for the meandering Kitakami River which leads directly toward the Hanamaki area.

Top Activities in Hanamaki
Route Information

Distance: 375 km (233 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 38 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: HNA (39.4286003112793, 141.13499450683594)

Route Type: Domestic

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