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CTS destination photo
WKJ destination photo

CTSWKJ

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning coastal journey along the Sea of Japan, culminating in a breathtaking view of the volcanic peak of Mount Rishiri rising directly from the ocean.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Sapporo Cityscape

Aerial view of Hokkaido's capital, including the distinct grid layout and the TV Tower area shortly after departure.

🌊

Ishikari Bay

The deep blue waters of the bay where the Ishikari River meets the Sea of Japan.

🏔️

Mashike Mountains

Rugged coastal mountains that drop steeply into the sea near the town of Rumoi.

🌋

Mount Rishiri

Known as 'Rishiri Fuji', this perfectly conical dormant volcano is the highlight of the descent into Wakkanai.

🌾

Sarobetsu Plain

One of Japan's largest high-moors, featuring vast wetlands and unique coastal vegetation.

Sit on the left for the iconic view of Mount Rishiri during the final 15 minutes of the flight. Morning flights are best to have the sun behind you, illuminating the coastline. In winter, the sea ice near the shore creates a spectacular white-and-blue mosaic.

Right Side Highlights
6.4
🚜

Ishikari Plain

Expansive agricultural heartland of Hokkaido with a patchwork of seasonal crops.

⛰️

Daisetsuzan Range

Distant views of the 'Roof of Hokkaido', featuring the island's highest volcanic peaks.

🌲

Central Hokkaido Forests

Dense primeval forests and rolling hills typical of the island's interior wilderness.

🐄

Soya Dairy Farms

The characteristic landscape of northernmost Japan, dotted with black-and-white cows and silos.

The right side is better for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the setting sun over the Sea of Japan. It provides a peaceful view of Hokkaido's vast interior and the distant mountain ranges of Daisetsuzan National Park.

Top Activities in Wakkanai
Route Information

Distance: 292 km (181 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 29 min

Departure: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Arrival: WKJ (45.4042015076, 141.80099487299998)

Route Type: Domestic

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