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TNA destination photo
LJG destination photo

TNALJG

Which side of the plane to sit from Yaoqiang Airport (Jinan) to Lijiang Airport (Lijiang)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic transition from the North China Plain into the high-altitude peaks of the Hengduan Mountains, specifically featuring a breathtaking close-up of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the final approach.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🏔️

Qinling Mountains

A massive natural boundary between North and South China, featuring rugged peaks and deep forested valleys.

⛴️

Three Gorges Reservoir

As you pass over Hubei/Chongqing, the vast expanses of the Yangtze River's reservoir system create a stunning blue contrast against the mountains.

🌲

Sichuan Basin Edge

The dramatic rise of the terrain as the flight leaves the Sichuan Basin and enters the high-altitude Hengduan range.

❄️

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

The absolute highlight of the trip; the glaciated peaks of Yulong Xueshan appear remarkably close during the descent into Lijiang.

🏘️

Lijiang Ancient Town

An aerial perspective of the tiled roofs of the UNESCO World Heritage site just before touching down at LJG.

This is the 'scenic side'. For the best photography of the snow-capped mountains, book an afternoon flight when the sun illuminates the western faces of the peaks. Avoid wing-obstructed seats (usually rows 12-22) to ensure a clear view of the mountain ranges during the descent.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Yellow River Bend

Shortly after takeoff from Jinan, look down to see the silt-heavy waters of the Yellow River snaking through the Shandong landscape.

⛰️

Mount Tai (Distant)

To the south of the initial flight path, the silhouette of Mount Tai, one of the Five Great Mountains of China, is often visible.

🏙️

Wuhan/Chongqing Corridors

Depending on the specific air corridor, you may see the sprawling urban density and bridge networks across the Yangtze River.

💧

Erhai Lake (Approach)

On the final descent, the southern tip of the plateau lakes may be visible as the plane maneuvers toward Lijiang.

Morning flights on the left side may suffer from direct sun glare during the first half of the journey. Choose this side if you prefer seeing the expansive urban development of central China and the southern reaches of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.

Top Activities in Lijiang
Route Information

Distance: 1,958 km (1,217 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min

Departure: TNA (36.857200622558594, 117.21600341796876)

Arrival: LJG (26.6800003052, 100.246002197)

Route Type: Domestic

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