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NRT destination photo

VIENRT

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

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.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

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'.

Top Activities in Tokyo
Route Information

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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