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HAN → KIX
Which side of the plane to sit from Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) to Kansai International Airport (Osaka)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the Vietnamese coastline shortly after takeoff and a stunning panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and the Japanese coastline during the descent into Osaka.
Hanoi Cityscape
Aerial view of the dense urban sprawl of Hanoi and the winding Red River immediately after takeoff from Noi Bai.
Ha Long Bay
On clear days, you can spot the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin during the initial climb.
Hainan Northern Coast
Glimpses of the northern tip of Hainan Island and the Qiongzhou Strait as the flight heads northeast.
Kyushu Mountains
As the flight approaches Japan, view the rugged, volcanic terrain of southern Kyushu and the Kirishima mountain range.
Seto Inland Sea
Breath-taking views of numerous small islands and cargo ships dotting the water between Shikoku and Honshu.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
The world's longest suspension bridge is often visible on the final approach into KIX, connecting Kobe to Awaji Island.
For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. On morning flights from Hanoi, the left side is shaded from the sun, providing better visibility and photo opportunities of the Japanese coastline. During the descent, watch for the artificial island structure of Kansai Airport itself.
Red River Delta
The intricate patterns of rice paddies and agricultural canals in northern Vietnam during the early stages of the flight.
Paracel Islands
In the distance, the small atolls and reefs of the South China Sea may be visible depending on the specific air corridor.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the vast Pacific Ocean, particularly striking during sunrise on overnight or early morning flights.
Ryukyu Archipelago
Distant views of the Okinawa island chain stretching across the East China Sea towards the Japanese mainland.
Cape Shiono-misaki
The southernmost point of Honshu island, where the rugged cliffs of the Kii Peninsula meet the Pacific.
The right side is ideal if you enjoy vast ocean vistas and sunrise colors. However, be aware that on daytime flights heading northeast, this side will be subject to intense direct sunlight, making it warmer and harder to take clear photos. If the flight path takes a southerly route around Taiwan, you may see more of the Philippine Sea.
Distance: 3,229 km (2,006 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: HAN (21.221200942993164, 105.80699920654295)
Arrival: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)
Route Type: International
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