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ISG destination photo
OKA destination photo

ISGOKA

Which side of the plane to sit from New Ishigaki Airport (Ishigaki) to Naha Airport (Okinawa)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers superior views of the Ryukyu island chain, including the stunning Kerama Islands and the famous sandbars of Kume Island, framed against the vibrant East China Sea.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🪸

Shiraho Reef

Visible immediately after takeoff, one of the oldest and largest blue coral reefs in the northern hemisphere.

🌉

Irabu Bridge

The longest toll-free bridge in Japan connecting Miyako-jima and Irabu-jima, looking like a thread over turquoise water.

🏖️

Hatenohama Sandbar

A 7km long pure white sandbar near Kume Island that appears as a glowing white line in the deep blue ocean.

🏝️

Kerama Islands

Aerial view of Tokashiki and Zamami islands, famous for the 'Kerama Blue' water clarity and intricate reef patterns.

🌊

Aguni Island

A volcanic island known for its unique white tuff cliffs and dramatic coastal geometry.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. The approach to Naha often passes directly over the Kerama Islands at a lower altitude, providing the best photo opportunities. Look for the distinct color changes in the water indicating varying reef depths.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🍩

Tarama Island

A uniquely flat, circular coral island located midway between Ishigaki and Miyako.

🔵

The Pacific Abyss

Deep blue views of the Philippine Sea where the ocean floor drops significantly beyond the island shelf.

🏙️

Naha Cityscape

On final approach to Runway 36, views of the dense urban development and the bustling Naha Port area.

🚢

Maritime Traffic

Frequent sightings of large container ships and international ferries navigating the main shipping lanes to Okinawa.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to minimize sun interference. While less island-dense, it offers a great perspective of the scale of Naha city during the landing phase. If the flight approaches from the north (Runway 18), you might catch a glimpse of the southern Okinawa coastline.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 396 km (246 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 40 min

Departure: ISG (24.396389000000003, 124.245)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: Domestic

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