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KOJ destination photo
OKA destination photo

KOJOKA

Which side of the plane to sit from Kagoshima Airport (Kagoshima) to Naha Airport (Okinawa)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the most iconic landmarks, including the Sakurajima volcano and the mountainous UNESCO site of Yakushima.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌋

Sakurajima

Spectacular views of the active volcano and ash plumes shortly after departing Kagoshima Bay.

🚀

Tanegashima

The eastern horizon reveals Japan's spaceport and the long, white sandy beaches of the island.

🌲

Yakushima

A stunning view of the rugged, high-altitude granite peaks and ancient cedar forests.

🏝️

Amami Oshima

The intricate coastline and deep blue bays of this massive subtropical island are highly visible.

🐚

Kouri Island

Near the end of the flight, look for the long bridge and emerald lagoons of northern Okinawa.

For the best experience, choose the left side on morning flights to keep the sun behind you, illuminating the vibrant greens of the islands. This side is essential for seeing Sakurajima's crater if the flight path takes the standard southern departure over the bay. Keep your camera ready for the transition from dark volcanic rock to bright coral reefs.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Mt. Kaimon

The 'Satsuma Fuji' is a perfectly conical volcano at the southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula.

🔥

Kuchinoerabujima

A stark, volcanic island known for its frequent geothermal activity and rugged cliffs.

🪸

Yoron Island

Famous for its disappearing white sandbars and some of the clearest turquoise waters in Japan.

💠

Iejima

Easily identified by the 'Touchu' peak, a sharp volcanic plug rising from the flat island center.

🛳️

Naha Port

Views of the bustling shipping lanes and urban skyline as the plane descends into Okinawa.

The right side is the preferred choice for sunset flights, offering a beautiful golden hour over the East China Sea. Look for Mt. Kaimon within the first 10 minutes of flight. As you approach Okinawa, this side provides a better view of the smaller, remote coral atolls like Iheya and Izena.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 691 km (429 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min

Departure: KOJ (31.80340003967285, 130.718994140625)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: Domestic

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