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SHA → KWL
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Guilin Liangjiang International Airport (Guilin)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic views of the famous Karst topography as the plane maneuvers for its final approach into Guilin, alongside excellent views of the rugged mountain ranges across Jiangxi and Hunan provinces.
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
One of the longest ocean-crossing bridges in the world, visible shortly after departure if the flight path tracks slightly south.
Wuyi Mountain Range
Dense, mist-shrouded green peaks along the border of Jiangxi and Fujian, known for tea production and biodiversity.
Xiang River
The major waterway of Hunan province, winding through the landscape like a silver ribbon.
Guilin Karst Pinnacles
The world-renowned limestone 'tooth' mountains that define the Guilin landscape, most visible during the descent.
Book a window seat in the front or middle of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction. On morning flights, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect lighting for photography of the mountain ranges and the Li River valley during the descent.
Shanghai Urban Sprawl
The massive scale of the Yangtze River Delta's urban development is strikingly apparent during the initial climb.
Taihu Lake
One of China's largest freshwater lakes, appearing as a vast blue expanse to the north of the flight path.
Nanyue Hengshan
One of the Five Great Mountains of China, located in Hunan, featuring high peaks and historic temple complexes.
Hunan Agricultural Terraces
Intricate patterns of rice paddies and terraced farming that create a geometric tapestry across the rural valleys.
Ideal for afternoon flights to catch the sunset over the central Chinese plains. Keep a lookout for Taihu Lake approximately 15-20 minutes after takeoff. During landing, this side provides a broad view of the airport's surrounding limestone hills.
Distance: 1,290 km (802 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 43 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: KWL (25.21809959411621, 110.03900146484376)
Route Type: Domestic
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