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CTS destination photo
OKA destination photo

CTSOKA

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

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular panoramic tour of Japan's geographic diversity, featuring the snow-capped Japanese Alps, the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea, and the active volcanoes of Kyushu before descending over the vibrant coral reefs of the Ryukyu Islands.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
❄️

Northern & Central Alps

Stunning views of Japan's 'roof,' featuring jagged peaks that remain snow-covered well into spring.

💧

Lake Biwa

Japan's largest freshwater lake is often visible as the flight path crosses over central Honshu.

🚢

Seto Inland Sea

An incredible view of thousands of small islands and bridges connecting Honshu and Shikoku.

🌋

Sakurajima

Look for the constant smoke plumes from this highly active volcano located in Kagoshima Bay.

🏝️

Amami Oshima

Dense, subtropical 'Galapagos of the East' forests visible during the final hour of the flight.

🪸

Kerama Blue

The breathtaking turquoise waters and coral reefs of the Kerama Islands during the final descent into Naha.

The right side is the definitive winner for this route. For the best experience, book a window seat away from the wing to see the Seto Inland Sea. During the final 20 minutes, the descent into OKA usually approaches from the north or west, providing a world-class view of the coral reefs and the emerald green waters surrounding Okinawa.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Tohoku Pacific Coast

View the rugged and dramatic eastern coastline of Honshu as the flight tracks south from Hokkaido.

🗻

Mount Fuji

On clear days, the iconic peak of Fuji is visible to the west as the plane passes the Kanto region.

🏙️

Tokyo Metropolis

A distant but expansive view of the world's largest urban area and Tokyo Bay's industrial landscape.

🌋

Izu Islands

A chain of volcanic islands stretching into the Pacific, including the active Oshima volcano.

🌤️

Pacific Horizon

Deep blue ocean vistas that transition from the temperate north to the subtropical south.

Select the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct afternoon sun glare. This side is best for spotting Mount Fuji from a distance and seeing the coastal urban sprawl of eastern Japan. Keep your camera ready about 60-80 minutes into the flight for the best mountain views.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 2,242 km (1,393 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 59 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: Domestic

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