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SHA → LJG
Which side of the plane to sit from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Shanghai) to Lijiang Airport (Lijiang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is superior for its dramatic approach into Lijiang, offering unparalleled views of the high-altitude Jinsha River canyons and the iconic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
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Yangtze River Delta
Aerial views of the industrial heartland and the winding waterways that feed into the East China Sea.
Dabie Mountains
A significant mountain range in central China that provides a rugged contrast to the flat plains of the east.
Jinsha River Canyons
The upper reaches of the Yangtze, where the river carves deep, dramatic gorges through the Yunnan mountains.
Yulong Snow Mountain
The crown jewel of the flight; the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is often visible in its full majesty on the right side during the final descent.
Lijiang Old Town
A bird's-eye view of the traditional tiled roofs and ancient layout of the UNESCO World Heritage site just before landing.
The right side is the 'scenic side' for this route. For the best view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, book a morning flight when the air is clearest. Avoid seats over the wing (rows 15-25 on most narrow-body jets) to ensure an unobstructed view of the deep river canyons and mountain peaks.
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Shanghai Cityscape
Immediate views of the dense Puxi urban sprawl and the western suburbs of the Shanghai metropolis after takeoff.
Lake Tai
A sprawling view of one of China's largest freshwater lakes, visible shortly after departing the Shanghai airspace.
Guizhou Karst Peaks
The unique 'stone forest' topography of the Guizhou plateau, featuring thousands of conical limestone hills.
Erhai Lake
Depending on the specific air traffic control path, you may see the large ear-shaped lake near Dali to the south during descent.
Choose the left side for lush, green landscapes and urban views. To avoid heavy sun glare during the midday or afternoon flights, the left side (facing south) might be brighter, so keep the window shade partially down until reaching the scenic Guizhou region.
Get eSIMs for China
Get eSIMs for ChinaDistance: 2,109 km (1,310 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 49 min
Departure: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)
Arrival: LJG (26.6800003052, 100.246002197)
Route Type: Domestic
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