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KMJ â NKM
Which side of the plane to sit from Kumamoto Airport (Kumamoto) to Nagoya Airport (Nagoya)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of volcanic peaks, the intricate islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the massive urban expanse of the Kansai region during the approach.
Mt. Aso Caldera
Visible shortly after takeoff, see one of the world's largest volcanic calderas and the active Nakadake crater.
Seto Inland Sea
Panoramic views of the numerous small islands and the Shimanami Kaido bridge network connecting Shikoku to Honshu.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
Look for the world's longest suspension bridge connecting Awaji Island to the city of Kobe.
Osaka and Kobe Skyline
A dense urban view of the Osaka Bay area, including the artificial islands and Yodo River.
Nagoya Castle
During the final descent into NKM, the historic castle and its golden dolphins can often be spotted to the north.
Sit on the left for the best volcanic views at the start. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Seto Inland Sea and the Kansai mountains clearly. Keep an eye out for the distinctive shape of Tsushima or Shodoshima islands in the distance.
Tosa Bay
The sweeping, crescent-shaped coastline of southern Shikoku meeting the Pacific Ocean.
Cape Muroto
A prominent geographic landmark where the Shikoku landmass points sharply into the sea.
Kii Mountain Range
The deep, forested peaks of the sacred Kii Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage area.
Ise-Shima Coastline
The rugged ria coast of Mie Prefecture, famous for pearl cultivation and the Ise Grand Shrine area.
Port of Nagoya
Views of one of Japan's largest cargo ports and the colorful 'Triton' bridges during descent.
The right side is best for viewing the rugged Pacific coastline. If flying in the late afternoon, the southern horizon offers a beautiful gradient over the ocean. It is generally quieter for photography as it looks away from the bright glare reflecting off the Seto Inland Sea.
Distance: 620 km (385 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 2 min
Departure: KMJ (32.83729934692383, 130.85499572753906)
Arrival: NKM (35.255001068115234, 136.92399597167972)
Route Type: Domestic
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