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KIX destination photo
SFO destination photo

KIXSFO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a high-probability view of Mount Fuji shortly after takeoff from Osaka and superior views of the Northern California coastline and mountains during the approach to SFO.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🗻

Mount Fuji

The most iconic view on this route, visible shortly after departure as the plane climbs and heads northeast.

🗾

Honshu Coastline

Dramatic aerial views of Japan's rugged eastern coastline as the flight exits landmass.

🏔️

Mount Shasta

Often visible during the descent into Northern California, standing out as a massive volcanic peak.

🌉

Golden Gate Bridge

If the flight path enters from the north, this side offers a spectacular view of the bridge and the city skyline.

🌲

Coastal Ranges

Dense evergreen forests of the Pacific Northwest and Northern California during arrival.

Prepare your camera immediately after takeoff; Mount Fuji typically appears 20 to 40 minutes into the flight depending on the departure path. For the arrival at SFO, the right side is generally more scenic, but be aware that the sun will be on this side for much of the journey, so you may need to keep your window shade partially down to manage heat and glare.

Left Side Highlights
6.3
🌊

Vast Pacific Ocean

Hours of endless blue horizon over the deep waters of the North Pacific.

🏙️

San Francisco Peninsula

Views of the tech hubs and residential areas of the peninsula during the final descent.

🏢

Silicon Valley

Clear views of the corporate campuses and grid layout of the South Bay if landing from the south.

The left side is the 'cool' side for this eastbound flight, meaning you avoid direct southern sunlight and glare. It is the better choice if you prefer a glare-free view of the ocean and want to see the suburban landscape of the San Francisco Peninsula during the final landing phase.

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Route Information

Distance: 8,692 km (5,401 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 14 min

Departure: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)

Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)

Route Type: International

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