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OKA destination photo
KMJ destination photo

OKAKMJ

Which side of the plane to sit from Naha Airport (Okinawa) to Kumamoto Airport (Kumamoto)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides an unparalleled view of the volcanic topography of Southern Japan, including the Ryukyu island chain and the iconic smoking crater of Mt. Sakurajima.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Amami Oshima

The largest island in the northern Ryukyu chain, famous for its primeval forests and winding coastlines.

🌲

Yakushima

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring high-altitude mountains and ancient cedar forests.

🌋

Mt. Sakurajima

One of the world's most active volcanoes, frequently seen emitting ash plumes into the atmosphere.

🚀

Tanegashima

The distant silhouette of Japan's primary space center can be spotted on the eastern horizon on clear days.

⛰️

Kirishima Range

A rugged chain of volcanic peaks visible during the descent into the Kumamoto region.

The right side is the clear winner for landmark spotting. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the sun's glare while illuminating the islands. The approach phase is the most critical time; the aircraft typically flies past the smoking crater of Sakurajima approximately 15 to 20 minutes before landing in Kumamoto.

Left Side Highlights
6.5
🏝️

Ie Island

Notable for its central rocky peak known as Mount Gusuku, visible shortly after departure from Naha.

🌊

East China Sea

Vast turquoise waters and coral reefs surrounding the northern Okinawan coastline during the initial climb.

⛰️

Mt. Kaimon-dake

A perfectly conical volcano located at the southern tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, known as the Fuji of Satsuma.

🏙️

Kagoshima Coastline

Views of the western side of Kagoshima Bay and the urban spread of the city as you enter Kyushu.

Opt for the left side during late afternoon or evening flights to enjoy spectacular sunsets over the East China Sea. Keep a sharp eye out for the distinctive silhouette of Mt. Kaimon-dake as the plane crosses from the ocean to the Kyushu mainland.

Top Activities in Kumamoto
Route Information

Distance: 801 km (498 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 20 min

Departure: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Arrival: KMJ (32.83729934692383, 130.85499572753906)

Route Type: Domestic

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