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CTS → KIJ
Which side of the plane to sit from New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) to Niigata Airport (Niigata)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an incredible gallery of Japan's volcanic spine, including the Hakkoda Mountains, Lake Towada, and the iconic peak of Mount Chokai, providing a dramatic landscape throughout the flight.
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Mount Tarumae
Visible shortly after takeoff from CTS, this active volcano features a distinct lava dome within its crater.
Uchiura Bay
A massive circular bay in southern Hokkaido, often called 'Iburi Bay', providing a scenic coastline view.
Hakkoda Mountains
A majestic volcanic mountain range in Aomori Prefecture, known for its deep snow and rugged peaks.
Lake Towada
The largest crater lake on Honshu island, famous for its bright blue water and surrounding lush forests.
Mount Chokai
Known as the 'Dewa Fuji', this massive stratovolcano rises sharply from the Sea of Japan coast.
Mount Gassan
The highest of the three mountains of Dewa, visible as you approach the Niigata border.
Sit on the left for the best mountain scenery. Early morning flights offer the clearest air for viewing the Tohoku mountain ranges. During winter, these peaks are heavily snow-capped, providing a stark and beautiful contrast with the blue lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for Lake Towada about 30-40 minutes into the flight.
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Lake Shikotsu
A stunningly clear caldera lake near Sapporo, seen immediately after departure.
Hakodate & Mt. Hakodate
View of the iconic fan-shaped city and the mountain that provides its famous night view.
Shirakami-Sanchi
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the last virgin forest of Siebold's beech trees in East Asia.
Oga Peninsula
A distinct geographic feature in Akita that juts out into the Sea of Japan.
Sado Island
Visible in the distance on the right as the plane begins its final descent into Niigata Airport.
The right side is ideal for coastal enthusiasts. Afternoon flights are particularly scenic here as the sun reflects off the Sea of Japan. As you approach Niigata, look westward to see the large silhouette of Sado Island across the water. This side also offers a better view of the rugged coastline of Aomori and Akita prefectures.
Book Hotels in NiigataDistance: 578 km (359 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)
Arrival: KIJ (37.955898284899995, 139.121002197)
Route Type: Domestic
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