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PUS destination photo
OKA destination photo

PUSOKA

Which side of the plane to sit from Gimhae International Airport (Busan) to Naha Airport (Okinawa)?

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more consistent parade of landmarks, including the rugged coastline of South Korea, the historical Tsushima Island, and the dramatic volcanic topography of Kyushu before reaching the Ryukyu archipelago.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Busan Harbor

Aerial view of South Korea's largest port and the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge immediately after takeoff.

🏝️

Tsushima Island

The densely forested Japanese island located halfway between Busan and Kyushu, showcasing its deep bays.

🌋

Sakurajima

On clear days, the active volcano in Kagoshima Bay can be seen smoking in the distance over southern Kyushu.

🌊

Amami Oshima

The largest of the Satsunan Islands, recognized by its mountainous terrain and surrounding emerald reefs.

🌴

Northern Okinawa

Views of the Yanbaru region, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its subtropical rainforests.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. Keep your camera ready about 30-40 minutes into the flight for the best views of the Kyushu volcanic range. During the descent, you'll get a great look at the length of Okinawa Island.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🌾

Nakdong River Delta

The intricate patterns of wetlands and sandbars where Busan's major river meets the South Sea.

🗾

Geoje Island

South Korea's second-largest island, featuring a jagged coastline and massive shipbuilding yards.

🌅

East China Sea

Uninterrupted views of the horizon, offering spectacular light play during afternoon and sunset flights.

🪸

Kerama Islands

The highlight of the right side; world-famous coral reefs and 'Kerama Blue' waters during the final approach.

⚓

Naha Port

A close-up view of the busy shipping lanes and the Naminoue Shrine area just moments before touchdown.

The right side is unbeatable for the final 10 minutes of the flight. As the plane descends into Naha, the Kerama Islands appear with vibrant turquoise water that is highly photogenic. Choose this side for evening flights to catch the sunset over the East China Sea.

Top Activities in Okinawa
Route Information

Distance: 1,007 km (626 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min

Departure: PUS (35.1795005798, 128.93800354)

Arrival: OKA (26.1958007812, 127.646003723)

Route Type: International

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