Loading map...

KMQ destination photo
CTS destination photo

KMQCTS

Which side of the plane to sit from Komatsu Airport (Kanazawa) to New Chitose Airport (Sapporo)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a continuous panorama of the Japanese mainland, featuring the snow-capped peaks of the Tohoku region and iconic volcanoes like Mt. Chokai and Mt. Yotei.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Northern Japanese Alps

Distant but majestic views of the Hida and Tateyama mountain ranges shortly after takeoff.

🗻

Mt. Chokai

Known as the 'Sea Fuji,' this massive volcanic peak rises directly from the coast and is a route highlight.

🌲

Shirakami-Sanchi

The UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the largest remaining virgin beech forest in East Asia.

🗼

Hakodate City

A bird's-eye view of the historic port city and the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort as you cross into Hokkaido.

🌋

Mt. Yotei

Hokkaido's near-perfect conical volcano, which stands out prominently during the descent phase into New Chitose.

The right side is superior for mountain lovers. In winter, the snow-covered Ou Mountains and Mt. Chokai provide spectacular photography opportunities. Morning flights are ideal for the right side to avoid direct sun glare while illuminating the mountain peaks. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Tsugaru Strait for a full view of the Hokkaido coastline.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🛶

Noto Peninsula

Visible shortly after departure, offering a clear view of the rugged coastline and the Nanao Bay area.

🏝️

Sado Island

Look for the unique 'Z' shape of this historic island positioned off the coast of Niigata in the Sea of Japan.

🗾

Oga Peninsula

A distinctive landmass in Akita Prefecture known for its unique 'Godzilla Rock' and circular coastline.

🚢

Tsugaru Strait

The narrow body of water separating Honshu and Hokkaido, often dotted with ferries and cargo ships.

🏞️

Lake Toya

A stunning circular volcanic caldera lake with a central island, frequently visible during the descent into Sapporo.

Sit on the left for the best views of the Sea of Japan's islands and a dramatic sunset if flying in the late afternoon. During the final approach to CTS, this side often provides a clearer view of Lake Toya and the Shikotsu-Toya National Park if the plane approaches from the south.

Top Activities in Sapporo
Route Information

Distance: 841 km (523 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: KMQ (36.39459991455078, 136.40699768066406)

Arrival: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.