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NRT → IST
Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Istanbul Airport (Istanbul)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Tien Shan mountain range in Central Asia and the stunning Caucasus Mountains, including Mount Elbrus, before descending over the Black Sea into Istanbul.
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Japanese Alps
The snow-capped peaks of central Honshu visible during the initial climb out of Tokyo.
Gobi Desert
The northern reaches of this vast cold desert, showing unique rock formations and steppes.
Tien Shan Range
Spectacular views of the 'Heavenly Mountains' with peaks exceeding 7,000 meters.
Aral Sea
The haunting remnants of the sea, showing unique salt flats and ecological changes.
Caucasus Mountains
Dramatic views of the range separating Europe and Asia, often including Mount Elbrus.
Black Sea Coast
The final approach into Istanbul often follows the northern coastline of Turkey.
The Right Side is the 'mountain side' for this route. Most flights from NRT to IST are daytime flights; the right side will be North-facing, meaning consistent indirect lighting which is perfect for photography without harsh glare. Keep an eye out about 8-9 hours into the flight for the spectacular Caucasus range. For arrivals at IST, the right side often gets a better view of the Black Sea and the Bosphorus entrance.
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Mount Fuji
Visible shortly after takeoff from Narita if the flight path tracks south of the peak.
East China Sea
Expansive ocean views as the aircraft leaves Japanese airspace and heads toward the mainland.
Taklamakan Desert
Aerial views of the vast 'Sea of Death' and its shifting sand dunes in Western China.
Zagros Mountains
The rugged, folded limestone peaks visible while crossing over the Iranian plateau.
Lake Van
A massive saline soda lake in eastern Turkey known for its distinct turquoise color.
For the best chance to see Mount Fuji, choose a window seat on the left for morning departures. As the flight progresses over Central Asia, the left side provides views of the southern Silk Road routes. During the final hour, watch for the rugged Anatolian terrain. Use a polarising filter if taking photos to cut through high-altitude haze over the desert.
Get eSIMs for Japan
Get eSIMs for TurkeyDistance: 8,979 km (5,579 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 34 min
Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Arrival: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Route Type: International
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