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NRT → YVR
Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Vancouver International Airport (Vancouver)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a spectacular view of the 'Ring of Fire' geography, including the volcanic chains of the North Pacific and the dramatic coastal fjords of British Columbia.
Kuril Islands
A string of volcanic peaks stretching from Japan toward the Kamchatka Peninsula.
Kamchatka Peninsula
Snow-capped Russian wilderness featuring some of the world's most active volcanoes.
Aleutian Islands
The remote arc of islands dividing the Bering Sea from the North Pacific Ocean.
Coast Mountains
Stunning glaciated peaks and deep fjords of the British Columbia coastline during descent.
North Shore Mountains
Close-up views of Cypress, Grouse, and Seymour mountains as the plane enters the Vancouver basin.
This side is superior for northern geographic landmarks. Keep your window shade open during the latter third of the flight to catch the dramatic BC coastline. Since this is an eastbound flight, the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare for photography of the mountains and islands.
North Pacific Ocean
Vast, deep blue waters often featuring interesting cloud formations and the reflection of the moon.
Date Line Sunrise
A brilliant sunrise over the horizon as you cross the International Date Line.
Vancouver Island
Aerial views of the southern rugged coastline and dense forests near Victoria.
Mount Baker
The massive, snow-covered stratovolcano in Washington State, often visible on clear days south of the border.
Strait of Georgia
Views of the busy shipping lanes and ferries operating between the mainland and Vancouver Island.
The right side is best for witnessing the sunrise, though the glare can be intense for several hours. During the final approach into YVR, this side often provides a great view of the Olympic Peninsula to the south and the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It is generally the 'sunnier' side of the aircraft for this eastbound route.
Distance: 7,503 km (4,662 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 50 min
Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Arrival: YVR (49.193901061999995, -123.183998108)
Route Type: International
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