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UKB destination photo
KOJ destination photo

UKBKOJ

Which side of the plane to sit from Kobe Airport (Kobe) to Kagoshima Airport (Kagoshima)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is the clear winner for this route primarily due to the spectacular close-up views of the Sakurajima volcano and Kinko Bay during the final descent into Kagoshima.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌉

Onaruto Bridge

A massive suspension bridge connecting Awaji Island to Shikoku over the famous whirlpool straits.

🌊

Pacific Coastline

Sweeping views of the rugged southern coast of Shikoku and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.

🌋

Sakurajima Volcano

The iconic active volcano is best viewed from this side as the plane enters the Kagoshima Bay area.

🏙️

Kagoshima City

A panoramic view of the 'Naples of the Eastern World' spread along the waterfront.

🛥️

Kinko Bay

The calm waters of the bay surrounding the volcano, often dotted with local ferries and fishing vessels.

Choose the left side for the most iconic Japanese landscape photography. During the final 15 minutes of the flight, stay alert for Sakurajima; it is one of Japan's most active volcanoes and often emits visible steam or ash. Afternoon flights are ideal as the sun illuminates the volcano from the west, providing perfect lighting for photos.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
🏝️

Seto Inland Sea

A stunning archipelago of hundreds of small, lush islands scattered across the shimmering sea.

🏗️

Seto Ohashi Bridge

One of the world's longest double-decked bridge systems connecting Honshu and Shikoku.

🏘️

Matsuyama City

Views of the capital of Ehime Prefecture, including the coastal industrial areas and mountains.

🛣️

Shimanami Kaido

The series of bridges that form a world-famous cycling route across the inland sea islands.

🏔️

Kirishima Mountains

A cluster of volcanic peaks visible to the north as the aircraft descends into Kagoshima Airport.

The right side is superior for geography enthusiasts who want to see the complex island patterns of the Seto Inland Sea. It offers excellent views of Japan's engineering marvels like the Seto Ohashi. This side is typically better for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare while looking north toward the mainland.

Top Activities in Kagoshima
Route Information

Distance: 524 km (326 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 52 min

Departure: UKB (34.632801055908196, 135.2239990234375)

Arrival: KOJ (31.80340003967285, 130.718994140625)

Route Type: Domestic

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