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CTS → SHB
Which side of the plane to sit from New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) to Nakashibetsu Airport (Nakashibetsu)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of Hokkaido's dramatic volcanic interior, featuring the iconic clear lakes and the rugged peaks of the Hidaka and Daisetsuzan ranges.
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Hidaka Mountains
The 'backbone of Hokkaido,' offering views of rugged, snow-capped ridges during winter and spring.
Mount Meakan
An active volcano in the Akan-Mashu National Park often seen with rising steam plumes.
Lake Mashu
Known as one of the world's clearest lakes, its intense deep-blue water is a highlight of the descent.
Lake Kussharo
A massive caldera lake featuring a prominent central island and turquoise-tinted shorelines.
Sit on the left for the best mountain and lake views. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Shiretoko Peninsula in the distance. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the volcanic craters and lakes about 30 minutes after takeoff.
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Tokachi Plain
A stunning patchwork quilt of vast agricultural fields and dairy farms that define central Hokkaido.
Kushiro Marshland
Japan's largest wetland area, appearing as a massive, untamed green or brown expanse depending on the season.
Pacific Coastline
Sweeping views of the southern Hokkaido coast where the land meets the deep blue Pacific Ocean.
Nakashibetsu Windbreaks
Unique grid-patterned forest belts designed to protect dairy pastures, creating a geometric landscape.
The right side is perfect for capturing the scale of Hokkaido's agriculture. In the afternoon, the low sun creates beautiful shadows across the Tokachi Plain. Keep your eyes peeled for the Kushiro Marsh just before the final approach into Nakashibetsu, as it is a haven for rare wildlife like the Red-crowned Crane.
Book Hotels in NakashibetsuDistance: 280 km (174 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 28 min
Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)
Arrival: SHB (43.5774993896, 144.960006714)
Route Type: Domestic
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