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TPE → SFO
Which side of the plane to sit from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei) to San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the clear winner for this route due to the iconic final approach into SFO, which often features a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco city skyline.
Taiwan East Coast
Dramatic views of where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean during the initial climb out of TPE.
Izu Peninsula
Views of the volcanic islands and jagged coastline south of the Japanese main islands.
Mid-Pacific Sunrise
A stunning high-altitude sunrise over the ocean horizon on this eastbound overnight journey.
Golden Gate Bridge
The most famous view in aviation: a clear sight of the bridge during the classic arrival into SFO.
San Francisco Skyline
A panoramic view of the Salesforce Tower, Transamerica Pyramid, and the dense Financial District.
Oracle Park
The bayside home of the SF Giants is often clearly visible as the plane lines up for the runway.
The right side is essential for the 'Golden Gate' arrival. For the best experience, try to book a seat ahead of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the city. Most flights from TPE arrive in the early morning; ensure your window shade is open 30 minutes before landing to catch the sunrise over the Bay Area.
Taipei Basin
Aerial views of the dense Taipei metropolitan area and the Tamsui River shortly after takeoff.
Japanese Archipelago
Potential distant views of the southern coast of Japan and Mount Fuji depending on the specific flight path.
Oregon Coastline
The first sight of the North American continent, featuring rugged cliffs and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Point Reyes
A prominent cape and national seashore visible during the initial descent into Northern California.
Marin Headlands
The hilly peninsula located just north of San Francisco, often covered in iconic rolling fog.
Choose the left side if you enjoy tracking the coastline of Japan and the northern reaches of California. While you miss the direct bridge view, you get a better look at the vastness of the Pacific Northwest forests as you cross into US airspace. Morning arrivals offer soft lighting on the mountains.
Distance: 10,391 km (6,457 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 12 hrs 13 min
Departure: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Arrival: SFO (37.61899948120117, -122.375)
Route Type: International
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