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NRT destination photo
ZRH destination photo

NRTZRH

Which side of the plane to sit from Narita International Airport (Tokyo) to Zürich Airport (Zurich)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is the winner primarily for the legendary view of Mount Fuji shortly after departure from Narita and the spectacular panoramic approach over the Swiss Alps into Zurich.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🗻

Mount Fuji

Visible roughly 15-20 minutes after takeoff from Narita if heading west, offering an iconic view of the snow-capped cone.

🏔️

Japanese Alps

The rugged mountain ranges of central Honshu provide a dramatic landscape during the first hour of flight.

🌊

Caspian Sea Southern Rim

Views of the vast inland sea and the arid landscapes of the northern Iranian plateau.

🏙️

Istanbul & Bosphorus

On the southern route, you may see the glimmering lights or sprawling urban layout of Istanbul connecting two continents.

🏔️

Swiss Alps Panorama

A breathtaking sequence of jagged peaks and glacial valleys during the descent into Zurich Airport.

Book a window seat on the left for the 'Fuji Factor'—it is the most photographed moment of the flight. Be aware that this side faces south, meaning you will have direct sunlight for most of the journey; keep your window shade down during the cruise to avoid cabin heat. The best Alpine views occur 20-30 minutes before landing.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🌊

Sea of Japan

Expansive views of the blue waters separating the Japanese archipelago from the Asian mainland.

🏔️

Tian Shan Mountains

Stunning views of the 'Heavenly Mountains' in Central Asia, featuring massive glaciers and high-altitude peaks.

🏜️

Aral Sea Basin

A stark look at the environmental transformation of the shrinking Aral Sea and the surrounding desert steppes.

🏔️

Caucasus Mountains

Magnificent views of Mount Elbrus and the high ridge dividing Eastern Europe from Western Asia.

💧

Lake Constance (Bodensee)

A beautiful view of the massive lake bordering Germany, Austria, and Switzerland during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for passengers who prefer indirect light, as it faces north, keeping the cabin cooler and reducing glare on screens. This side offers superior views of the vast Central Asian mountain ranges and the Black Sea. Watch for Lake Constance just before the final turn into Zurich for a scenic transition from Germany to Switzerland.

Top Activities in Zurich
Route Information

Distance: 9,595 km (5,962 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 11 hrs 17 min

Departure: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)

Arrival: ZRH (47.464699, 8.54917)

Route Type: International

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