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CTS → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior scenery, including the iconic Mount Yotei shortly after takeoff and the dramatic Yanshan Mountains featuring segments of the Great Wall during the descent into Beijing.
Mount Yotei
Often called the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido, this perfect volcanic cone is a stunning sight after takeoff.
Lake Toya
A beautiful blue caldera lake situated within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
Russian Far East Coast
Depending on the specific airway, the rugged cliffs of the Primorsky Krai region may be visible.
The Great Wall
Watch the mountain ridges north of Beijing to spot the ancient wall snaking across the peaks.
Yanshan Mountains
Dramatic and jagged mountain ranges that dominate the landscape during the approach to PEK.
This is the preferred side for evening flights as it faces north/west, potentially offering a spectacular sunset over the Chinese mountains. The approach into Beijing often passes directly over the Miyun Reservoir and segments of the Great Wall, so keep your camera ready roughly 20-30 minutes before landing.
Uchiura Bay
A vast circular bay on Hokkaido's southern coast visible shortly after departure.
Hakodate Peninsula
Look for the distinctive narrow strip of land and the star-shaped Goryokaku fort.
Korean Peninsula Coast
Distant views of the rugged eastern coastline across the Sea of Japan.
Bo Hai Industrial Hubs
Massive shipping ports and offshore oil platforms near the coast of Tangshan.
Tianjin Skyline
On clear days, the expansive urban sprawl of Tianjin is visible during the final descent.
Sit here during early morning flights to enjoy the soft morning light reflecting off the Sea of Japan. This side is also better for spotting the unique geography of southern Hokkaido and the busy maritime activity in the Bo Hai Sea.
Distance: 2,107 km (1,309 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: International
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