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KIJ destination photo
NRT destination photo

KIJ → NRT

Which side of the plane to sit from Niigata Airport (Niigata) to Narita International Airport (Tokyo)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the majestic Japanese Alps shortly after takeoff and a iconic, distant view of Mount Fuji during the descent toward the Kanto region.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
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Japanese Alps

Spectacular views of the snow-capped Northern and Central Alps shortly after reaching cruising altitude.

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Mount Fuji

Japan's highest peak is often visible on the horizon to the southwest during the mid-flight and descent segments.

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Kanto Urban Sprawl

The massive, dense metropolitan area of Greater Tokyo stretching toward the horizon as the plane nears Narita.

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Chiba Countryside

A patchwork of golf courses and rolling hills typical of the Boso Peninsula landscape surrounding the airport.

The right side is highly recommended for the potential sighting of Mount Fuji. In winter, the Japanese Alps are particularly stunning due to heavy snow cover. For the best photography, a morning flight minimizes glare from the sun when looking toward the southern mountain ranges.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
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Echigo Plain

Expansive views of Japan's most productive rice-growing region immediately after departure from Niigata.

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Nikko Mountains

The rugged peaks of Nikko National Park, including Mt. Nantai, visible as the flight traverses central Honshu.

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Mount Tsukuba

The iconic twin peaks of Tsukuba-san standing out from the flat Kanto Plain during the initial descent phase.

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Kujukuri Beach

The long, sandy arc of the Pacific coastline visible if the aircraft approaches Narita from the east.

Choose the left side for better views of the Tochigi mountain ranges. On morning flights, the lighting is excellent for photographing the rice fields of Niigata. Keep an eye out for the distinct shape of Mount Tsukuba as the plane begins its final descent into the Narita area.

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Route Information

Distance: 268 km (167 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: KIJ (37.955898284899995, 139.121002197)

Arrival: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)

Route Type: Domestic

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