Loading map...

SHE destination photo
PEK destination photo

SHEPEK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the rugged Yan Mountains and historical segments of the Great Wall as the flight approaches the Beijing basin.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Yan Mountains

Dramatic views of the rugged mountain range that forms the natural northern barrier of Beijing.

🧱

The Great Wall

Various segments of the Great Wall can be spotted snaking across the mountain ridges during descent.

💧

Miyun Reservoir

The largest reservoir in North China, providing a brilliant blue contrast to the green and brown peaks.

🌄

Huairou Scenic Area

Lush valleys and peaks that mark the transition from the mountains to the Beijing plain.

✈️

Capital Airport Approach

Views of the architectural marvel of Terminal 3 as the plane aligns for its final landing path.

The right side is prime for landscape photography, especially during the descent. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the mountains. Use polarized lenses to see through the common haze over Beijing. Look out specifically about 15-20 minutes before landing for the Miyun Reservoir and the white lines of the Great Wall on the ridges.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌾

Panjin Red Beach

During autumn, the vibrant red seablite of the Liaohe Delta wetlands is visible shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Liaodong Bay

Expansive views of the northernmost gulf of the Bohai Sea and its busy shipping lanes.

🏙️

Qinhuangdao Coastline

Clear views of the port city and the famous coastal resort district of Beidaihe.

🏗️

Tangshan Industrial Hub

Observation of the massive industrial infrastructure and urban sprawl of the Hebei plains.

⚓

Tianjin Binhai

The sprawling port facilities and high-rises of the Binhai New Area on the distant horizon.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and for the best chance to spot the coastline. In late September or October, look closely near Panjin for the distinct crimson color of the Red Beach. High-altitude haze often affects coastal visibility, so clear days are essential for seeing Tianjin.

Top Activities in Beijing
Route Information

Distance: 605 km (376 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 1 min

Departure: SHE (41.63980102539063, 123.48300170898438)

Arrival: PEK (40.0801010131836, 116.58499908447266)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.