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SYD → NRT
Which side of the plane to sit from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (Sydney) to Narita International Airport (Tokyo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this route as it offers iconic views of the Sydney Harbour upon departure and a prime opportunity to spot Mount Fuji during the descent into Narita.
Sydney Harbour
Bird's-eye views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and the CBD immediately after a northbound takeoff.
Great Barrier Reef
Vibrant turquoise coral structures and sandy cays visible while transiting the Queensland coastline.
Owen Stanley Range
The rugged, mist-covered mountain peaks of Papua New Guinea as the flight crosses the island.
Izu Peninsula
The dramatic, jagged coastline of Japan's Izu region appearing during the initial descent.
Mount Fuji
On clear days, the iconic snow-capped peak is visible to the west as the plane maneuvers toward Narita.
For the best experience, choose a window seat in the 'A' column. On daytime flights, keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes of takeoff and the last 40 minutes of flight. If flying overnight, the left side will experience more direct sunlight during the afternoon arrival in Japan.
Sydney Northern Beaches
Excellent views of Manly, Palm Beach, and the coastal lagoons shortly after departure.
Pacific Atolls
Scattered views of remote Micronesian islands and coral atolls in the vast Western Pacific.
Kujukuri Beach
The massive, 60km-long sandy arc of the Chiba coastline during the final approach to NRT.
Tokyo Bay Traffic
Heavy maritime traffic and cargo ships waiting to enter the busy ports of Chiba and Tokyo.
The right side (K column) is preferred for those who want to avoid the harsh afternoon sun while flying north. It provides a more peaceful, ocean-centric view and is excellent for watching the sunrise on red-eye flights. Look for the Boso Peninsula coastline as the primary landmark before landing.
Distance: 7,832 km (4,867 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 hrs 13 min
Departure: SYD (-33.94609832763672, 151.177001953125)
Arrival: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Route Type: International
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