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OKJ destination photo
CTS destination photo

OKJCTS

Which side of the plane to sit from Okayama Airport (Okayama) to New Chitose Airport (Sapporo)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more scenic coastal journey along the Sea of Japan and provides iconic views of Hokkaido's volcanic landscape, including Mt. Yotei and Lake Toya, during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏖️

Tottori Sand Dunes

Shortly after takeoff, view Japan's largest sand dunes stretching along the Sea of Japan coastline.

🏝️

Sado Island

Look for the distinctive 'Z' shape of Sado Island off the coast of Niigata as the flight heads north.

🏔️

Mt. Chokai

The 'Dewa Fuji' rises majestically near the coastline of Yamagata, often surrounded by a sea of clouds.

🌉

Tsugaru Strait

Witness the narrow body of water separating Honshu and Hokkaido, with views of the Hakodate coastline.

🌋

Mt. Yotei & Lake Toya

During the descent into CTS, the perfectly conical 'Ezo Fuji' and the circular caldera lake are primary landmarks.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh eastern sun. The descent phase is particularly spectacular; keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the volcanoes of southwestern Hokkaido. In winter, the snow-covered coastline of the Sea of Japan creates a stark, beautiful contrast.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Chugoku Mountains

Initial climb offers views of the rugged, forested interior of the Chugoku region.

🌊

Lake Towada

A deep blue caldera lake located on the border of Akita and Aomori prefectures.

🪓

Shimokita Peninsula

The axe-shaped northernmost tip of Honshu, featuring the remote and rugged Osorezan area.

🚢

Uchiura Bay

As you enter Hokkaido airspace, the wide expanse of 'Volcano Bay' opens up towards the Pacific.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to enjoy softer lighting. Look for the Shimokita Peninsula's unique shape as it marks the final transition from Honshu to Hokkaido. This side often provides better views of the inland mountain ranges of Tohoku if the flight path is slightly more eastern.

Top Activities in Sapporo
Route Information

Distance: 1,120 km (696 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min

Departure: OKJ (34.7569007874, 133.854995728)

Arrival: CTS (42.77519989013672, 141.69200134277344)

Route Type: Domestic

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