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XNN destination photo
NKG destination photo

XNNNKG

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a front-row seat to the majestic Qinling Mountains, the primary geographic and climatic divide between North and South China, as well as views of the ancient capital Xi'an.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Plateau Fringe

Dramatic high-altitude terrain visible immediately after takeoff from Xining's high-elevation airport.

⛰️

Qinling Mountains

The massive, snow-capped peaks of the Qinling range, serving as the natural wall between northern and southern China.

🏯

Xi'an Cityscape

Aerial views of the historic ancient capital, often visible just north of the Qinling range.

💧

Lake Hongze

A massive freshwater lake in Jiangsu province, often visible during the initial stages of the descent.

🛶

Yangtze Delta Network

An intricate web of rivers, canals, and green rice paddies as the flight approaches Nanjing.

This is the premier side for geography enthusiasts. Ensure you have a window seat to witness the stark contrast between the dry north and lush south as you cross the Qinling Mountains mid-flight. In the winter, the snow-capped mountain ridges provide incredible photography opportunities. During descent into Nanjing, look for the shimmer of the Yangtze River's many tributaries.

Left Side Highlights
7.4
🪨

Loess Plateau

The unique yellow-soiled canyons and terraced landscapes characteristic of the Gansu and Shaanxi provinces.

🌊

Yellow River Bends

Occasional sightings of the winding Yellow River as it snakes through the northern plains.

🏙️

Zhengzhou Urban Center

A massive view of one of China's most important transportation hubs and the capital of Henan.

🌾

North China Plain

Vast, flat agricultural landscapes that stretch toward the horizon during the mid-to-late flight.

The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. It offers a softer view of the vast agricultural heartland and the unique erosion patterns of the Loess Plateau. Keep your camera ready about 40 minutes into the flight for the best river views.

Top Activities in Nanjing
Route Information

Distance: 1,634 km (1,015 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 11 min

Departure: XNN (36.5275, 102.042999)

Arrival: NKG (31.742000579833984, 118.86199951171876)

Route Type: Domestic

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