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KIJ destination photo
NKM destination photo

KIJNKM

Which side of the plane to sit from Niigata Airport (Niigata) to Nagoya Airport (Nagoya)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the most iconic peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps and a high probability of spotting Mount Fuji on the horizon during clear conditions.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

Mount Myoko

A prominent stratovolcano known as the 'Mount Fuji of Echigo' visible shortly after departure.

⛰️

Northern Japanese Alps

Stunning close-up views of the Yari-Hotaka mountain range, featuring Japan's most rugged peaks.

💧

Lake Suwa

A circular tectonic lake located in the center of Nagano Prefecture, easily identifiable by its shape.

🗻

Mount Fuji

On clear days, Japan's highest peak is visible in the distance to the southeast during the cruise phase.

🏙️

Nagoya Skyline

As the plane descends into NKM, the skyscrapers of the Meieki district appear to the south.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the alpine snow caps perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the best mountain shots. In winter, the contrast between the white peaks and blue sky is exceptional.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🏝️

Sado Island

Visible far to the northwest across the Sea of Japan immediately after climbing out of Niigata.

🏔️

Tateyama Mountain Range

The massive ridges of the Hida Mountains, including the famous Kurobe Dam area.

🌋

Mount Ontake

A massive, spiritually significant volcano that stands isolated from the main alpine chain.

🌲

Kiso Valley

Dense, deep green forests and winding river valleys that look like a traditional woodblock print.

🏯

Gifu Castle

Look for the small white structure perched atop Mount Kinka during the final approach phase.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to catch the golden hour light hitting the Hida Mountains. This side provides a better perspective of the rugged western slopes of the Alps and the volcanic crater of Mount Ontake.

Top Activities in Nagoya
Route Information

Distance: 359 km (223 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 36 min

Departure: KIJ (37.955898284899995, 139.121002197)

Arrival: NKM (35.255001068115234, 136.92399597167972)

Route Type: Domestic

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