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FUK destination photo
CTS destination photo

FUKCTS

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

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers spectacular views of the Sea of Japan, the iconic Sado Island, and a breathtaking aerial approach to Hokkaido featuring volcanic craters and mountain peaks.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Genkai Sea

Visible immediately after takeoff from Fukuoka, offering views of the northern Kyushu coastline and small outlying islands.

🏝️

Sado Island

A massive, S-shaped island off the coast of Niigata, easily identifiable by its distinct mountain ranges and central plain.

🌉

Tsugaru Strait

The body of water separating Honshu and Hokkaido, where you can see the crossing point of the Seikan Tunnel.

🌋

Lake Toya

A nearly circular volcanic caldera lake in Hokkaido, famous for its central islands and clear blue water.

🏔️

Mount Yotei

Known as 'Ezo Fuji' for its symmetrical cone, this mountain dominates the landscape on the final descent into Sapporo.

Sit on the left for afternoon flights to witness the sunset reflecting off the Sea of Japan. During the winter months, look for the dramatic 'Sea of Clouds' and the snow-blanketed peaks of the Oshima Peninsula. Ensure you are looking out about 15-20 minutes before landing for the best view of Lake Toya.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

San-in Coastline

Rugged coastal scenery and sea cliffs stretching along the northern side of the Chugoku region.

🏔️

Mount Chokai

A massive, isolated volcano known as 'Dewa Fuji' that rises spectacularly near the Yamagata coastline.

🏞️

Lake Towada

A stunning double-caldera lake located on the border between Akita and Aomori prefectures.

⛰️

Hakkoda Mountains

A majestic volcanic mountain range in Aomori, often heavily covered in snow during the winter season.

⚓

Uchiura Bay

A large, circular bay at the southern tip of Hokkaido, visible as the plane begins its final approach pattern.

The right side is better for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare. It provides superior views of the Japanese mainland's inner mountain ranges. Watch for the 'Frost Covered Trees' (Juhyo) on the mountains if flying during peak winter, and keep an eye out for the distinct circular shape of Uchiura Bay upon entering Hokkaido airspace.

Top Activities in Sapporo
Route Information

Distance: 1,415 km (879 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 53 min

Departure: FUK (33.585899353027344, 130.45100402832028)

Arrival: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Route Type: Domestic

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