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CTS → MMJ
Which side of the plane to sit from New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) to Matsumoto Airport (Matsumoto)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular parallel view of the Sea of Japan coastline followed by a dramatic close-up of the Northern Japan Alps during the descent into the Matsumoto basin.
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Uchiura Bay
The sweeping coastline of southern Hokkaido as the plane heads toward the Tsugaru Strait.
Tsugaru Strait
The narrow body of water separating Hokkaido and Honshu, where the Seikan Tunnel runs deep below.
Sado Island
The distinctive 'Z' shaped island visible off the coast of Niigata in the Sea of Japan.
Northern Japan Alps
The Hida Mountains, including jagged peaks like Mt. Yarigatake, providing a stunning backdrop during landing.
Matsumoto Basin
The patchwork of rice fields and urban areas of the Azumino and Matsumoto valley floor.
The right side is premier for alpine enthusiasts. The approach into MMJ is one of Japan's most scenic, as the plane flies parallel to the 3,000-meter peaks of the Northern Alps. Winter and spring are the best seasons to see these mountains covered in heavy snow.
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Lake Shikotsu
A deep, crystal-blue caldera lake visible shortly after departure from New Chitose.
Mt. Iwaki
Known as 'Tsugaru Fuji' for its perfect conical shape, standing tall in Aomori Prefecture.
Lake Tazawa
Japan's deepest lake, recognizable by its intense sapphire color amidst the Akita mountains.
Mt. Chokai
A massive volcanic peak that seems to rise directly out of the Sea of Japan coast.
Utsukushigahara
The 'Beautiful Highlands' plateau bordering the eastern side of the Matsumoto Valley during final approach.
Sit on the left for better views of the inland volcanoes and the distant Pacific horizon. Early morning flights provide excellent front-lighting on the Tohoku mountain ranges. On exceptionally clear days, look far south during the descent to potentially spot the tip of Mt. Fuji.
Get eSIMs for Japan
Get eSIMs for JapanDistance: 803 km (499 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)
Arrival: MMJ (36.16680145263672, 137.92300415039062)
Route Type: Domestic
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