Loading map...
URC → SJW
Which side of the plane to sit from Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (Urumqi) to Shijiazhuang Daguocun International Airport (Shijiazhuang)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides unparalleled views of the Tianshan and Qilian mountain ranges, offering a dramatic contrast between snow-capped peaks and the vast Gobi Desert.
Tianshan Mountains
A continuous view of the majestic range to the south during the first half of the journey.
Turpan Basin
Look down into one of the world's lowest depressions, featuring the vibrant colors of the Flaming Mountains.
Qilian Mountains
Breathtaking glaciers and high-altitude peaks along the southern edge of the Hexi Corridor.
Qinghai Lake
On clear days, the deep blue expanse of China's largest lake may be visible on the distant horizon.
Taihang Mountains
A spectacular final descent over the rugged, vertical cliffs that separate the plateau from the plains.
The right side is superior for mountain lovers. Afternoon flights provide excellent lighting on the Qilian and Taihang peaks. Ensure your window is clean for photos of the stark contrast between the white glaciers and the orange-red desert sands. Sit behind the wing for the best unobstructed downward views.
Bogda Peak
Shortly after takeoff, view the highest peak in the eastern Tianshan, capped with eternal snow.
Gobi Desert
Expansive views of the barren and mysterious rock formations across northern Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia.
Badain Jaran Desert
Observe the world's highest stationary sand dunes and scattered desert lakes from a high altitude.
Yellow River Loop
Spot the massive northern bend of the Yellow River as it carves through the arid landscape.
Loess Plateau
Unique views of the highly eroded, terraced landscapes and deep canyons of Shaanxi and Shanxi.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is better for observing the unique 'cracked' textures of the Loess Plateau and the vastness of the northern deserts. Look for the Great Wall remnants near the Ningxia-Shaanxi border.
Distance: 2,354 km (1,463 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 8 min
Departure: URC (43.90710067749024, 87.47419738769531)
Arrival: SJW (38.28070068359375, 114.6969985961914)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.