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CTS destination photo
SDJ destination photo

CTSSDJ

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

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular gallery of Japan's northern volcanoes, including the iconic Mount Yotei and the massive Mount Iwate, plus views of deep caldera lakes like Towada.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌋

Mount Yotei

Often visible shortly after takeoff, this perfectly shaped stratovolcano is known as the 'Mount Fuji of Hokkaido'.

🌊

Uchiura Bay

A massive circular bay that the flight path often skirts, offering views of the shoreline toward Hakodate.

🏔️

Hakkoda Mountains

A scenic cluster of volcanic peaks in Aomori Prefecture, usually visible right after crossing the Tsugaru Strait.

💧

Lake Towada

A stunning double-caldera lake that glows deep blue, situated on the border of Aomori and Akita.

⛰️

Mount Iwate

A towering, snow-capped volcano near Morioka City that dominates the landscape in northern Honshu.

🌲

Ou Mountain Range

The 'backbone' of Northern Japan, providing a continuous view of rugged, forested peaks throughout the flight.

This is the premier side for mountain lovers. Sit here to see 'Ezo Fuji' (Mt. Yotei) within the first 15 minutes. In winter, the snow-covered peaks of the Tohoku region are world-class. Morning flights are ideal as the sun is behind you, providing crisp, high-contrast views of the volcanic craters and mountain ridges.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🚢

Tomakomai Port

Immediately after takeoff from CTS, see one of Hokkaido's largest industrial ports and the Pacific coastline.

🌊

Tsugaru Strait

Observe the deep blue waters separating Hokkaido from Honshu as you cross the maritime border.

🏖️

Sanriku Coastline

View the dramatic rias coastline known for its rugged cliffs and deep inlets along the Aomori and Iwate borders.

🏙️

Hachinohe City

A clear view of this major coastal city and its sprawling industrial and fishing harbor area.

🦌

Oshika Peninsula

As the plane descends toward Sendai, watch for this jagged landform jutting into the Pacific near Matsushima Bay.

Choose this side for Pacific Ocean vistas and coastal geography. It is particularly beautiful during sunrise flights when the water reflects the morning light. On clear days, you can see the intricate indentations of the Sanriku coast, though the inland mountains on the opposite side are generally more dramatic for this specific route.

Top Activities in Sendai
Route Information

Distance: 520 km (323 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: SDJ (38.1397018433, 140.917007446)

Route Type: Domestic

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