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NZH → PEK
Which side of the plane to sit from Manzhouli Xijiao Airport (Manzhouli) to Beijing Capital International Airport (Beijing)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panorama of the Hulunbuir grasslands, the massive Hulun Lake shortly after takeoff, and a spectacular approach over the Yan Mountains and the Great Wall north of Beijing.
Hulun Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a massive blue expanse shortly after takeoff.
Hulunbuir Steppe
Endless vistas of world-renowned grasslands, often dotted with meandering silver rivers.
Xilingol Plateau
Higher altitude rugged terrain featuring unique geological formations and semi-arid landscapes.
Miyun Reservoir
A vast, sprawling reservoir that serves as Beijing's primary water source, visible during descent.
The Great Wall
Distinct segments of the ancient Ming-era wall visible snaking along the mountain crests near Gubeikou.
Sit on the right for the best landscape variety. Ensure you look out within the first 15 minutes for Hulun Lake. As the plane descends into Beijing, scan the mountain ridges specifically for the Great Wall. In winter, the grasslands turn into a striking white tundra. Afternoon flights offer beautiful golden hour light on the steppe, though window glare can be high.
Daxing'anling Ridges
Dense larch and birch forest cover over the rolling mountain ridges of Northeast China.
Horqin Grasslands
The transition zone where the high steppe meets the agricultural plains of the northeast.
Yan Mountains
The dramatic rocky boundary that forms a natural protective barrier for the Beijing basin.
Beijing Suburbs
Dense urban sprawl and infrastructure as the flight enters the busy North China airspace.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. It provides a more stable lighting condition for photographing the dense Daxing'anling forest transition. During the final descent into PEK, you will have a clear view of the eastern mountain ranges and industrial outskirts of the capital.
Distance: 1,056 km (656 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: NZH (49.566666999999995, 117.33)
Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)
Route Type: Domestic
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