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KIJ → ICN
Which side of the plane to sit from Niigata Airport (Niigata) to Incheon International Airport (Seoul)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior perspective of the Japanese coastline upon departure and a panoramic view of the Korean mountain ranges and the Seoul metropolitan area during the descent into Incheon.
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Niigata Coastline
Panoramic views of the Shinano River mouth and the expansive Niigata port area immediately after takeoff.
Noto Peninsula
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the rugged Noto Peninsula is visible as the flight heads west over the sea.
Taebaek Mountains
The dramatic mountain range running along Korea's east coast, especially stunning when snow-capped in winter.
Seoul Urban Sprawl
A massive view of the southern Seoul metropolitan area, including the Lotte World Tower in the distance.
Incheon Bridge
A striking view of the long cable-stayed bridge connecting Songdo International City to the airport island.
Sit on the left for the best morning light without direct glare. During the descent, keep your camera ready as the plane crosses the Korean coastline; the transition from the deep blue sea to the jagged peaks of Gangwon-do is spectacular. If landing towards the west, you will get a great view of the Incheon Bridge and the Songdo skyline.
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Sado Island
A prime view of the iconic S-shaped island off the coast of Niigata shortly after departure.
East Sea Horizon
An unobstructed view of the horizon where the sea meets the sky during the mid-flight cruise.
Bukhansan National Park
The sharp granite peaks located just north of Seoul are often visible during the northern approach corridor.
Incheon Port
Dense clusters of cargo ships and ferries anchored in the Yellow Sea waiting to enter the harbor.
West Sea Sunset
If flying on an evening flight, this side offers a front-row seat to the sun setting over the Yellow Sea.
The right side is essential for seeing Sado Island, which is one of the most recognizable landmarks near Niigata. On the approach to ICN, you may see the North Korean coastline in the far distance if the flight path takes a more northerly route. Use a polarizing filter if taking photos to cut through the frequent haze over the Yellow Sea.
Book Hotels in SeoulDistance: 1,115 km (693 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 29 min
Departure: KIJ (37.955898284899995, 139.121002197)
Arrival: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)
Route Type: International
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