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VIE → NRT
Which side of the plane to sit from Vienna International Airport (Vienna) to Narita International Airport (Tokyo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is highly recommended for its spectacular views of the Caucasus Mountains and the iconic Mount Fuji during the approach to Japan, which is a bucket-list sight for many travelers.
Caucasus Mountains
Stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Elbrus, when flying the southern route via Turkey and Georgia.
Kyzylkum Desert
The striking red sands of Uzbekistan provide a stark and beautiful contrast to the surrounding regions.
Gobi Desert
As the flight crosses China, the southern horizon reveals the vast, desolate beauty of the Gobi's dunes and basins.
Japanese Alps
Upon entering Japanese airspace, the dramatic, forested peaks of Central Honshu become visible.
Mount Fuji
The ultimate highlight; on clear days during the descent into Narita, the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is visible to the south.
To see Mount Fuji, you need clear weather during the final 30-45 minutes of the flight. If the plane approaches Narita from the south or west, the right side is your best bet for this iconic photo opportunity. Most Vienna-Tokyo flights are overnight; for the best views of the Caucasus and Central Asian deserts, ensure you are awake approximately 3 to 5 hours into the flight.
Carpathian Mountains
The flight path crosses over Romania, offering views of the rugged Transylvanian Alps shortly after departure.
Northern Caspian Sea
Observe the vast expanse of the world's largest inland sea and the unique coastline of Kazakhstan.
Kazakh Steppe
Immense, flat grasslands that stretch to the horizon, showcasing the vastness of Central Asia.
Altai Mountains
Glacier-carved peaks where Russia, China, and Mongolia meet, visible as the flight heads east.
Harbin and Northern China
Glimmering city lights of Northern China's industrial hubs during the late stages of the flight.
The left side is excellent for catching the Aurora Borealis during winter months if the flight path takes a more northerly route over Siberia. Since this is an eastbound long-haul, you will experience a very short night; keep your window shade down during the brief darkness to avoid waking others, but open it as you cross the Sea of Japan for the first light of the 'Rising Sun'.
Distance: 9,154 km (5,688 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 46 min
Departure: VIE (48.110298156738, 16.569700241089002)
Arrival: NRT (35.764701843299996, 140.386001587)
Route Type: International
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