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MSJ destination photo
ITM destination photo

MSJ → ITM

Which side of the plane to sit from Misawa Air Base (Misawa) to Osaka International Airport (Osaka)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an incredible sequence of Japan's most famous volcanic peaks and mountain ranges, culminating in a spectacular low-altitude view of Kyoto and the Osaka urban sprawl during the approach into Itami.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
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Mount Iwate

A magnificent stratovolcano known as the 'Nambu Fuji' that dominates the skyline early in the flight.

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Ou Mountains

Japan's longest mountain range, forming the central spine of the Tohoku region with snow-capped peaks in winter.

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Lake Inawashiro

One of Japan's largest freshwater lakes, reflecting the surrounding Bandai-Asahi National Park.

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Northern Japanese Alps

Spectacular views of the Hida Mountains, including some of Japan's highest and most rugged terrain.

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Lake Biwa

Japan's largest lake appears as a massive blue expanse just before the descent into the Kansai region.

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Kyoto City Grid

The perfectly rectangular street layout of the ancient capital is clearly visible during the descent into ITM.

The right side is the 'mountain side.' For the best experience, book a window seat away from the wing to see the Japanese Alps. During the final 10-15 minutes of the flight, the right side provides a world-class view of Kyoto's temples and the dense urban geometry of the Kansai region. Winter flights offer the most dramatic scenery due to heavy snow cover on the Tohoku peaks.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
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Sanriku Coastline

The dramatic, jagged 'ria' coastline of Iwate Prefecture, known for its deep inlets and steep cliffs.

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Matsushima Bay

Consistently ranked as one of Japan's three most scenic views, featuring over 200 pine-covered islands.

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Sendai City

The 'City of Trees' is visible as the largest urban expanse in the Tohoku region shortly after departure.

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Distant Mount Fuji

On exceptionally clear days, the iconic silhouette of Fuji-san can be spotted on the horizon to the south.

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Nara Basin

During the final descent, look for the ancient capital's temples and the sprawling Nara Park area.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun over the Pacific. This side is superior for viewing the Pacific coastline and seeing Mount Fuji if the flight path takes a more southerly route. Keep an eye out for the massive Kanto Plain as you transition toward central Japan.

Top Activities in Osaka
Route Information

Distance: 839 km (521 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min

Departure: MSJ (40.7032012939, 141.367996216)

Arrival: ITM (34.785499572753906, 135.43800354003906)

Route Type: Domestic

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