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SHA → CAN
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Guangzhou)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point of China's southeastern coastline, spanning from the massive engineering marvel of the Hangzhou Bay Bridge to the jagged, island-dotted shores of Fujian province.
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Hangzhou Bay Bridge
One of the world's longest trans-oceanic bridges, visible shortly after departing Shanghai.
Zhoushan Archipelago
A stunning collection of emerald-green islands scattered across the East China Sea.
Fujian Coastline
Dramatic views of the rugged ria coastline featuring deep bays and mountainous peninsulas.
Xiamen Island
The beautiful urban layout of Xiamen and the historic Gulangyu island are often visible.
Shantou Port
A major maritime gateway showing heavy shipping traffic and coastal development.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while capturing the coastline. Look out about 15-20 minutes after takeoff for the bridge. Coastal views are best during clear autumn months when humidity is lower and visibility stretches far into the Pacific.
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Lake Taihu
A vast freshwater lake visible to the west shortly after takeoff from Hongqiao.
Wuyi Mountains
UNESCO World Heritage peaks known for their dramatic sandstone formations and tea terraces.
Jiangxi Highlands
Rolling green hills and dense forest cover typical of the inland southeastern provinces.
Heyuan Reservoirs
Deep blue water bodies reflecting the sky amidst the mountainous terrain of northern Guangdong.
Guangzhou Suburbs
The massive urban expansion of the Pearl River Delta becomes apparent during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you. It offers a peaceful view of China's inland natural beauty and mountain ranges. During the descent into CAN, watch for the transition from rugged mountains to the dense urban sprawl of the Pearl River Delta.
Book Hotels in GuangzhouDistance: 1,176 km (731 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: CAN (23.39240074157715, 113.29900360107422)
Route Type: Domestic
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