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NZH → HRB
Which side of the plane to sit from Manzhouli Xijiao Airport (Manzhouli) to Taiping Airport (Harbin)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the massive Hulun Lake immediately after takeoff and provides a better angle for the winding Songhua River during the approach to Harbin.
Hulun Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a massive blue sapphire on the steppe.
Hulunbuir Grasslands
The heart of the world-famous steppe with rolling green hills and nomadic settlements.
Daxing'anling Ridge
Rugged terrain where the high plateau drops off into the fertile plains of the east.
Songhua River Meanders
Intricate silver loops of the river visible during the descent into Harbin.
Sit on the right for the best chance to see Hulun Lake shortly after departure from Manzhouli. For afternoon flights, this side offers stunning golden hour views over the Songnen Plain as you land in Harbin. Keep your camera ready during the last 20 minutes for river views.
Greater Khingan Forests
Dense expanses of larch and birch forests covering the Daxing'anling mountain range.
Qiqihar Cityscape
Aerial perspective of the 'Crane City' as the flight transitions into the Songnen Plain.
Zhalainuoer Open-pit Mines
Massive industrial mining scars visible near the start of the journey.
Northern Snowfields
In winter, the vast white expanse of the northern Heilongjiang wilderness is breathtaking.
Choose an early morning flight to have the sun behind you for clearer photos of the forest canopy. During winter, look for the 'rime' effect on the trees from this side as you cross the mountain ridges.
Distance: 799 km (496 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min
Departure: NZH (49.566666999999995, 117.33)
Arrival: HRB (45.6234016418457, 126.25)
Route Type: Domestic
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