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DAT destination photo
CIH destination photo

DATCIH

Which side of the plane to sit from Datong Airport (Datong) to Changzhi Airport (Changzhi)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the most iconic landmarks of Shanxi province, including the sacred Wutai Mountain and the majestic Taihang Mountain range.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Mount Heng

Shortly after departure from Datong, view the Northern Great Mountain of China, known for its rugged cliffs and historical temples.

🏔️

Wutai Mountain

A UNESCO World Heritage site and sacred Buddhist peak featuring high plateaus and ancient temple clusters nestled in the mountains.

🏙️

Taiyuan Metropolitan Area

Bird's-eye view of the provincial capital's skyline and its dense urban development along the Fen River.

🏔️

Taihang Mountains

The dramatic eastern boundary of the Loess Plateau, showcasing deep canyons and vertical rock faces.

🌾

Jinzhong Plain

The agricultural heartland of Shanxi, displaying a patchwork of traditional farming plots and ancient towns.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and get the best shadows on the Taihang cliffs. During winter, look for the snow-covered peaks of Mount Wutai, which are particularly striking against the brown plateau landscape. The descent into Changzhi offers a great view of the high-altitude basin surrounded by mountains.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🏜️

Loess Plateau Terraces

Observe the unique 'yardang' and terraced landscapes that define the geography of northern China.

🏞️

Fen River Valley

The primary waterway of Shanxi, snaking through the central basins and supporting the region's industry.

🏭

Industrial Landscapes

Fascinating views of the massive coal mining and energy production facilities that drive the local economy.

🔲

Traditional Courtyards

Occasional views of ancient 'Siheyuan' or cave dwellings (Yaodong) integrated into the hillside terrain.

The right side is excellent for photographers interested in geological patterns and the unique erosion of the Loess Plateau. In the late afternoon, the low sun angle highlights the dramatic textures of the terraced fields. Keep an eye out for the complex network of high-speed rail viaducts crossing the valleys.

Top Activities in Changzhi
Route Information

Distance: 425 km (264 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 43 min

Departure: DAT (40.060299, 113.482002)

Arrival: CIH (36.247501, 113.125999)

Route Type: Domestic

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