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CTS destination photo
TOY destination photo

CTSTOY

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a dramatic inland perspective of the volcanic topography of Hokkaido and Tohoku, concluding with the spectacular snowy peaks of the Tateyama Mountain Range upon approach.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya

Shortly after takeoff from CTS, witness these two stunning caldera lakes surrounded by active volcanoes like Mt. Usu.

🌊

Tsugaru Strait

The maritime boundary between Hokkaido and Honshu islands, often busy with ferries and cargo ships.

🛶

Lake Towada

A brilliant blue double-caldera lake located on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures.

🏔️

Mt. Iwate

The highest mountain in Iwate Prefecture, often referred to as the 'Nambu Fuji' for its symmetrical shape.

❄️

Tateyama Mountain Range

The dramatic 'Northern Alps' of Japan, featuring 3,000-meter peaks that define the Toyama skyline.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to enjoy the best illumination on the Tohoku mountain ranges. During winter, look for the 'Juhyo' (snow monsters) on high-altitude ridges. The approach into Toyama Airport is particularly scenic on this side as the plane turns toward the runway, offering a panoramic view of the massive Tateyama peaks.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🏙️

Hakodate Cityscape

A clear view of the unique fan-shaped peninsula and the iconic Goryokaku star fort.

🌳

Shirakami-Sanchi

The UNESCO World Heritage site containing the last virgin beech forest in East Asia.

⛰️

Mt. Chokai

Known as 'Dewa Fuji,' this massive volcano sits right on the coastline, creating a stunning visual contrast with the sea.

🏝️

Sado Island

The large, lightning-bolt-shaped island in the Sea of Japan, visible during the latter half of the flight.

🌅

Noto Peninsula

The rugged coastline extending into the Sea of Japan, visible as the flight descends toward Toyama Bay.

The right side is the premier choice for late afternoon or evening flights to catch the sunset over the Sea of Japan. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff to capture the distinctive geography of Hakodate. This side also provides a clearer view of the Oga Peninsula's unique 'neck' and the coastal cliffs of Niigata.

Top Activities in Toyama
Route Information

Distance: 782 km (486 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 18 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: TOY (36.64830017089844, 137.18800354003906)

Route Type: Domestic

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