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KIJ → OKA
Which side of the plane to sit from Niigata Airport (Niigata) to Naha Airport (Okinawa)?
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.
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.
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.
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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