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KIJ destination photo
OKA destination photo

KIJOKA

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of Japan's backbone, including the dramatic Japanese Alps, the urban centers of central Honshu, and a beautiful approach over the emerald waters of the Ryukyu Islands.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Northern Japanese Alps

Spectacular views of snow-capped peaks including Mt. Tateyama and the Hida Mountains shortly after departure.

🏙️

Nagoya and Ise Bay

A bird's-eye view of the dense urban sprawl of Nagoya and the intricate coastline of the Ise-Shima region.

⛰️

Shikoku Mountains

Cross over the rugged, forested terrain of Shikoku, featuring deep river valleys and high ridges.

🌋

Sakurajima

On many flight paths, the active volcano in Kagoshima Bay is visible as you transition toward the East China Sea.

🏝️

Okinawa Honto North

Clear views of the Yanbaru forest and the turquoise coral reefs of northern Okinawa during the descent.

Book a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. For morning flights, this side is shaded, providing better clarity for photography. Keep an eye out about 20 minutes after takeoff for the most dramatic mountain scenery.

Right Side Highlights
6.5
🌊

Noto Peninsula

The distinctive hook-shaped landmass of Ishikawa Prefecture extending into the Sea of Japan.

🏖️

Tottori Sand Dunes

If the route hugs the San'in coast, you may spot the largest sand dunes in Japan stretching along the shore.

🌉

Kanmon Straits

The narrow body of water separating Honshu from Kyushu, often busy with international shipping traffic.

🌅

East China Sea Horizon

Expansive, unobstructed views of the horizon, perfect for capturing sunset colors on evening flights.

Select the right side for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the East China Sea. While it offers fewer land-based landmarks than the left, it provides a more peaceful, oceanic perspective and a clear view of the Noto Peninsula early in the flight.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 1,694 km (1,053 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 16 min

Departure: KIJ (37.955898284899995, 139.121002197)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: Domestic

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