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SFO → KIX
Which side of the plane to sit from San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco) to Kansai International Airport (Osaka)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior scenery, including an iconic departure over the San Francisco Bay, the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest, the volcanic Aleutian Islands, and the dramatic mountains of Kamchatka and Japan.
Golden Gate Bridge
A spectacular view of the bridge and the San Francisco skyline immediately after takeoff from SFO.
Cascade Range
Glances of the snow-capped peaks of the Pacific Northwest and the Olympic Peninsula as the flight tracks north.
Aleutian Islands
The dramatic volcanic arc of the Aleutian Islands often appears below during the great circle segment of the flight.
Kamchatka Peninsula
On clear days, see the massive, active volcanoes and icy wilderness of Russia's far eastern coast.
Japanese Alps
Views of the mountainous spine of Honshu and the northern Japanese coastline during the descent toward the Kansai region.
The right side is the 'scenery side.' Ensure your window is clear for the first 30 minutes to catch the Bay Area departure. During the middle of the flight, keep an eye out for the Aleutian chain. Note that for morning departures from SFO, the right side will be facing north, meaning you get the best views without the sun shining directly into your window.
The Infinite Pacific
Expansive views of the deep blue North Pacific and interesting cloud formations.
Southern Horizon Lighting
Soft lighting and colors along the southern horizon, especially during the long transition through time zones.
Kii Peninsula
The rugged, forested mountains of the Kii Peninsula come into view during the final approach into Osaka.
Kansai Airport Island
A unique perspective of the engineering marvel that is KIX, built entirely on an artificial island in Osaka Bay.
Choose the left side if you prefer to avoid direct sun glare for the majority of the flight. While the views are mostly oceanic, the approach into KIX often provides a clear view of the southern Japanese coastline. This side is typically quieter for sleeping during the long transpacific crossing.
Distance: 8,692 km (5,401 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 14 min
Departure: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Arrival: KIX (34.42729949951172, 135.24400329589844)
Route Type: International
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