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OKA â HIJ
Which side of the plane to sit from Naha Airport (Okinawa) to Hiroshima Airport (Hiroshima)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the preferred choice for this route as it offers the most dramatic views of Japan's volcanic landscape, including a direct line of sight to the active Sakurajima volcano and the Kirishima mountain range.
Okinawa East Coast
Panoramic views of Naha city and the northern Yanbaru subtropical forests during the initial climb.
Sakurajima
A spectacular view of the active volcano rising from Kagoshima Bay, often seen venting ash and smoke.
Kirishima Range
A majestic chain of volcanic peaks and high-altitude crater lakes on the border of Kagoshima and Miyazaki.
Bungo Channel
The scenic strait between Kyushu and Shikoku, dotted with shipping traffic and small islets.
Hiroshima Bay
Views of the Kure shipyards and, depending on the landing pattern, the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima.
The highlight of this side is Sakurajima, which typically appears 45-55 minutes after departure. Keep your camera ready as you cross the southern coast of Kyushu. Morning flights provide the best direct illumination on the volcanic peaks of Kagoshima.
Kerama Islands
Stunning coral reefs and turquoise 'Kerama Blue' waters visible immediately after takeoff from Naha.
Amami Oshima
The rugged, forested coastline of one of the largest islands in the Ryukyu archipelago.
Mount Aso
Views of one of the world's largest volcanic calderas in central Kyushu as the flight moves north.
Seto Inland Sea
A dense cluster of islands and bridge networks appearing during the final descent into Hiroshima.
Sit forward of the wing to capture the vibrant colors of the Okinawa reefs during departure. For the best lighting on the terrain of Kyushu and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, an afternoon flight is recommended to avoid morning glare from the east.
Distance: 1,046 km (650 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 24 min
Departure: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)
Arrival: HIJ (34.4361000061, 132.91900634799998)
Route Type: Domestic
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