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SAN → NRT
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Narita International Airport (Tokyo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most diverse scenery, starting with the iconic California coastline and potentially the Aleutian Islands, while avoiding the harsh southern sun glare during this westbound journey.
San Diego Skyline
Immediate views of Downtown San Diego, the Big Bay, and the North Island Naval Base after takeoff.
Channel Islands
Aerial perspective of the rugged, uninhabited islands off the coast of Southern California.
California Coastline
Sweeping views of the Central Coast and occasionally the San Francisco Bay Area depending on the departure corridor.
Cascade Range
Distant views of major peaks like Mt. Shasta or Mt. Rainier as the flight arcs toward the North Pacific.
Aleutian Chain
If the flight path takes a northerly Great Circle route, look for the volcanic island arcs of Alaska through the clouds.
Kashima Port
A massive industrial complex and harbor area that serves as a landmark for the entry into Japanese airspace.
Choose the right side for the best lighting conditions; the sun will be on the opposite side, making it much easier to take photos of the US coast and Japanese landscape. This side is also better for spotting the Aleutian Islands if the weather is clear. If taking off from SAN toward the west (the standard direction), the right side provides the classic view of Point Loma and the San Diego coastline as the plane turns north.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the deep indigo North Pacific waters during the long mid-flight crossing.
The Extended Sunset
Due to the westbound speed, the sunset duration is stretched, offering hours of golden hour lighting.
Boso Peninsula
The first sight of Japan, featuring the rugged green cliffs and forested hills of the Chiba prefecture.
Kujukuri Beach
One of Japan's longest sandy beaches, visible as a continuous arc of white sand on final approach.
Mount Fuji
On exceptionally clear days during the descent into Narita, the iconic snow-capped peak may be visible in the far distance.
The left side is the 'sunny' side of the aircraft for most of this flight. While great for sunset enthusiasts, keep your window shade down during the mid-day portion to avoid excessive cabin heat and eye strain from the reflection off the clouds or ocean. For the best chance to see Mount Fuji on arrival, hope for a clear day and a 'Runway 34' arrival pattern.
Distance: 8,924 km (5,545 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 30 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Route Type: International
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