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KIX destination photo
OKA destination photo

KIXOKA

Which side of the plane to sit from Kansai International Airport (Osaka) to Naha Airport (Okinawa)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior aerial perspective of the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea after takeoff and the breathtaking coral reefs of the Kerama Islands during the final descent into Naha.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌉

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Spot the world's second-longest suspension bridge connecting Kobe to Awaji Island shortly after departure.

🏝️

Seto Inland Sea

A beautiful mosaic of small islands and fishing boats scattered across the calm waters between Honshu and Shikoku.

⛰️

Amami Oshima

The lush, dark green mountains of the Amami islands provide a stunning contrast against the surrounding turquoise shallows.

🐠

Kerama Islands

Witness the legendary 'Kerama Blue' water and vibrant coral reef structures that are world-renowned for their clarity.

For the most vivid colors of the coral reefs, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you. This side is consistently more scenic for island-hopping views. During winter months (January to March), keep a close eye on the water near the Keramas for a chance to spot migrating humpback whales.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏔️

Kii Peninsula

View the rugged, forested mountain ranges and dramatic coastal inlets of Wakayama Prefecture during the initial climb.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

An endless expanse of deep blue Pacific water, offering spectacular light reflections and cloud formations.

🏝️

Okinawa Main Island

The long, narrow silhouette of Okinawa appears as you fly parallel to the east coast toward the southern tip.

🏢

Naha Cityscape

A dense urban view of Okinawa's capital city and its busy harbor as the plane banks for its final approach.

The left side is the preferred choice for afternoon or evening flights to experience the sunset colors over the ocean. It offers a broader view of the main island's geography as you descend, making it great for identifying major Okinawan landmarks from the air.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 1,169 km (726 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min

Departure: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: Domestic

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