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NKM destination photo
GAJ destination photo

NKMGAJ

Which side of the plane to sit from Nagoya Airport (Nagoya) to Yamagata Airport (Yamagata)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to the Northern Japanese Alps, offering dramatic views of Mount Ontake and the jagged Hida Mountain peaks.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Nagoya Skyline

Detailed view of Nagoya Castle and the central business district towers immediately after takeoff from Komaki.

🏔️

Mount Ontake

A massive active volcano often surrounded by a sea of clouds, visible shortly after reaching cruise altitude.

⛰️

Northern Alps

The 'Roof of Japan' featuring the sharp, iconic peak of Mount Yarigatake and the majestic Hotaka range.

🌊

Sea of Japan Coast

Distant views of the Toyama coastline and the Noto Peninsula on exceptionally clear days during cruise.

🌾

Yamagata Basin

A patchwork of rice paddies and fruit orchards as the aircraft aligns for the final landing approach into Yamagata.

Sit on the left for the most dramatic mountain scenery. Morning flights are preferred as the sun illuminates the western faces of the Alps, preventing glare. In winter, the heavy snow cover makes the jagged peaks of the Hida Mountains stand out remarkably. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes after departure.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏞️

Kiso Valley

A deep, forested valley known for the historic Nakasendo trail and traditional wooden villages visible from above.

🏔️

Central Alps

The Kiso Mountain range, including the impressive granite massifs of Mount Kisokoma and Mount Hokoken.

💧

Lake Suwa

A prominent blue lake in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, visible nestled between the mountain ranges to the east.

🌋

Mount Asama

A major active volcano located further east, often visible with a distinct plume of steam on clear days.

🏔️

Zao Mountain Range

The stunning volcanic range bordering Yamagata, featuring the emerald green Okama crater lake during descent.

The right side is superior for viewing the volcanic Zao range during the final descent. If the weather is exceptionally clear, you can sometimes spot the silhouette of Mount Fuji in the far distance to the southeast during the initial climb. Autumn is the best season for this side to see the changing colors of the forests.

Top Activities in Yamagata
Route Information

Distance: 466 km (290 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 47 min

Departure: NKM (35.255001068115234, 136.92399597167972)

Arrival: GAJ (38.4118995667, 140.371002197)

Route Type: Domestic

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