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KIX destination photo
TNA destination photo

KIXTNA

Which side of the plane to sit from Kansai International Airport (Osaka) to Yaoqiang Airport (Jinan)?

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more scenic experience, featuring the stunning archipelago of the Seto Inland Sea and a better angle of the coastal mountains of Shandong upon approach to China.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌊

Seto Inland Sea

Breathtaking views of hundreds of small islands scattered across the water shortly after takeoff from KIX.

🌉

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The world's longest suspension bridge connecting Kobe to Awaji Island is often visible during the climb.

⛰️

Mount Lao (Laoshan)

As you cross the Yellow Sea, the jagged granite peaks of this sacred Taoist mountain appear on the Shandong coast.

🏙️

Qingdao Skyline

Aerial perspective of the coastal city known for its unique blend of German colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers.

🚜

Shandong Hinterland

Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields and industrial clusters as the plane descends toward Jinan.

For a morning flight, the left side will be shaded, providing better conditions for photography of the Japanese coastline. When entering China, look for the distinct 'red roofs and green trees' of the Qingdao area. Seasonal haze in the Shandong province can sometimes obstruct distant views, so autumn offers the clearest visibility.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏢

Osaka Bay Panorama

Clear views of the artificial islands of KIX and the dense urban landscape of the Kansai region.

🏔️

Mount Daisen

If the flight path trends north, the 'Fuji of Hoki' is visible as the most prominent peak in the Chugoku region.

🏝️

Oki Islands

Volcanic islands located in the Sea of Japan, offering a rugged contrast to the mainland.

🚢

Yantai & Weihai Coast

The northern edge of the Shandong Peninsula, featuring major shipping lanes and busy ports.

🌊

Bohai Sea Fringe

Glimpses of the inner sea of China as the flight makes its final turn toward Yaoqiang Airport.

Sit on the right for afternoon flights to avoid direct sunlight and glare, as the plane travels mostly westward. This side is better for spotting the northern coastline of Shandong and the various offshore wind farms. Keep an eye out for the Chugoku mountains when crossing over the Japanese mainland.

Top Activities in Jinan
Route Information

Distance: 1,649 km (1,025 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 12 min

Departure: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)

Arrival: TNA (36.857200622558594, 117.21600341796876)

Route Type: International

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