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CTS destination photo
UKB destination photo

CTSUKB

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a spectacular gallery of Japan's inland geography, featuring the volcanic landscapes of Hokkaido, the snow-capped Japanese Alps, and a dense urban flyover of the Kansai region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Lake Toya and Mt. Usu

Shortly after take-off from Sapporo, enjoy a clear view of this circular caldera lake and its neighboring active volcano.

🏔️

The Japanese Alps

The central part of the flight offers stunning views of the Hida and Kiso mountain ranges, often covered in snow.

💧

Lake Biwa

As the plane begins its descent, Japan's largest freshwater lake appears as a massive blue expanse to the east.

🏙️

Osaka and Kyoto Skyline

A sprawling metropolitan view as you fly over the Kansai heartland toward the coast of Osaka Bay.

Book a window on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the afternoon sun over the Sea of Japan. The Japanese Alps are most dramatic in late winter and early spring. During the descent, look for the historical layout of Kyoto and the dense skyscraper clusters of Osaka just before turning into Kobe.

Right Side Highlights
8.1
🌊

Tsugaru Strait

A great view of the water separating Hokkaido and Honshu, with the Seikan Tunnel running beneath it.

🏝️

Sado Island

This large, Z-shaped island in the Sea of Japan is a prominent landmark during the middle segment of the journey.

🌉

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The world's second-longest suspension bridge is often visible during the final approach to Kobe Airport.

⚓

Kobe Waterfront

A close-up view of the Meriken Park area and the Port of Kobe as the aircraft aligns with the runway.

The right side is ideal for catching sunsets over the Sea of Japan on late afternoon flights. For the best view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, keep your eyes peeled during the final 5-10 minutes of the flight; if the plane approaches from the west, the bridge will be a magnificent sight directly below or to the side.

Top Activities in Kobe
Route Information

Distance: 1,064 km (661 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: UKB (34.632801055908196, 135.2239990234375)

Route Type: Domestic

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