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TPE → SJW
Which side of the plane to sit from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (Taipei) to Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of China's most iconic geographic landmarks, including the rugged Wuyi Mountains, the vast Poyang Lake, and the dramatic Taihang Mountain range upon approach.
Tamsui River Estuary
Immediately after takeoff from TPE, look down to see the intersection of the Tamsui River and the East China Sea at the northern tip of Taiwan.
Wuyi Mountains
As the flight enters mainland China over Fujian, the landscape turns into a series of jagged, mist-covered peaks known for tea production.
Poyang Lake
Visible mid-flight, this is China's largest freshwater lake, appearing as a massive blue expanse amidst the greenery of Jiangxi province.
Yangtze River Crossing
Watch for the world's third-longest river as it winds through central China, often dotted with heavy cargo barge traffic.
Taihang Mountains
During the descent into Shijiazhuang, the western horizon is dominated by the steep, vertical cliffs of this massive mountain range.
The left side is the clear winner for geographic diversity. For the best lighting, choose an afternoon flight to see the sun illuminate the Taihang Mountains. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing for the Poyang Lake crossing, which occurs roughly halfway through the journey.
Taiwan Strait
Enjoy views of the turquoise waters and coastal fishing vessels as the flight departs the island of Taiwan.
Fujian Coastline
A great perspective of the heavily indented coastline of mainland China, featuring numerous bays and rocky peninsulas.
North China Plain
As you head north, the terrain flattens into an endless patchwork of agricultural fields and dense industrial clusters.
Shijiazhuang Outskirts
View the rapid urban expansion and high-rise developments of the Hebei provincial capital during the final landing phase.
The right side is best for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. While less mountainous, it provides a fascinating look at the high-density urbanization of eastern China. Watch for the change in soil color to a more yellow-brown hue as you cross into the North China Plain.
Distance: 1,592 km (989 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 7 min
Departure: TPE (25.0777, 121.233002)
Arrival: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Route Type: International
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