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UKB â NGS
Which side of the plane to sit from Kobe Airport (Kobe) to Nagasaki Airport (Nagasaki)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled look at the volcanic heart of Kyushu and the dense island chains of the Seto Inland Sea, offering more natural drama than the right.
Shodoshima Island
A panoramic view of the largest island in the Harima-nada sea, known for its olive groves.
Naruto Whirlpools
On southern-leaning paths, the swirling currents of the Naruto Strait are visible near Shikoku.
Shikoku Mountain Range
The rugged peaks of northern Shikoku, including the prominent Mount Ishizuchi.
Mount Aso
A spectacular view of one of the world's largest active volcanic calderas in central Kyushu.
Mount Unzen
The historic volcanic peaks of the Shimabara Peninsula, standing tall before the final descent.
Omura Bay
The calm, enclosed waters that surround the unique island-based Nagasaki Airport.
Choose the left side for the most dramatic natural scenery. On morning flights, the lighting on the Shikoku mountains is superb. Keep a close eye on Mount Aso as you enter Kyushu; if the crater is active, you can often see white steam plumes. During the final 15 minutes, the descent over the Shimabara Peninsula offers great photo opportunities of the volcanic terrain.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
A direct view of the world's longest suspension bridge immediately after departing Kobe.
Himeji Castle
The distinct white silhouette of the 'White Heron' Castle can be spotted in the distance.
Hiroshima City
The sprawling urban delta of Hiroshima and the surrounding Chugoku mountains.
Miyajima
The sacred island featuring the iconic floating torii gate, visible near the coastline.
Kanmon Straits
The narrow, busy shipping channel that separates the islands of Honshu and Kyushu.
Saga Plains
A vast patchwork of rice fields and agricultural land stretching toward the Ariake Sea.
The right side is perfect for infrastructure and city enthusiasts. The view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge right after takeoff is a major highlight; sit behind the wing for the clearest downward angle. Afternoon flights on this side are generally cooler as you are facing away from the direct southern sun, making it easier to spot the white walls of Himeji Castle.
Distance: 526 km (327 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 53 min
Departure: UKB (34.632801055908196, 135.2239990234375)
Arrival: NGS (32.916900634799994, 129.914001465)
Route Type: Domestic
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