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LJG → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Lijiang Airport (Lijiang) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers an unparalleled view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain immediately after takeoff and provides the best perspective of the rugged Qinling mountain range and the unique textures of the Loess Plateau.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Stunning views of the 5,596m Shanzidou peak right after departure from Lijiang.
Hengduan Mountains
A series of high-altitude ridges and deep valleys characteristic of the Yunnan-Sichuan border.
Qinling Mountains
The primary geographic and climatic dividing line between Northern and Southern China.
Loess Plateau
Dramatic views of the highly eroded, yellow-silt landscape and terraced farming in Shaanxi.
Beijing Western Hills
The forested mountain range that serves as the natural backdrop to the Chinese capital.
Sit toward the front or rear of the plane to avoid wing obstruction for the mountain views. Early morning flights are best for clear visibility of the snow peaks, as clouds often gather around the summits by midday. During winter, look for the striking contrast of snow against the yellow earth of the Loess Plateau.
Jinsha River Canyons
The upper reaches of the Yangtze River as it winds through narrow, steep gorges.
Sichuan Basin
A vast, often mist-covered lowland area that is one of China's most fertile regions.
Wei River Valley
The historical heartland of Chinese civilization passing near the ancient capital of Xi'an.
Taihang Mountains
The massive escarpment that separates the Shanxi Plateau from the North China Plain.
Beijing Urban Sprawl
A sweeping view of the capital's expansion, including the CBD skyscrapers and Olympic park.
The right side is excellent for evening flights as the city lights of Xi'an and Beijing become visible. On the descent into PEK, keep your eyes peeled for the Great Wall winding through the mountains north of the city, which is more frequently visible from this side depending on the landing pattern.
Distance: 2,120 km (1,317 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 50 min
Departure: LJG (26.6800003052, 100.246002197)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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