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YIH destination photo
SHA destination photo

YIHSHA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Yangtze River's southern banks, the massive expanse of Lake Taihu, and the iconic Shanghai city skyline during the descent into Hongqiao Airport.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Yangtze Main Channel

Consistent views of the river's winding path, heavy barge traffic, and massive suspension bridges.

🌾

Jianghan Plain

A mesmerizing patchwork of rice paddies, irrigation canals, and intensive aquaculture ponds.

🏞️

Lake Taihu

One of China's largest freshwater lakes, recognizable by its vast circular shape and numerous islands.

🌆

Shanghai Skyline

On clear days during the final approach, the Lujiazui financial district towers are visible to the east.

✈️

Hongqiao Approach

Low-altitude views of the dense residential and commercial districts of western Shanghai.

The right side is perfect for morning flights. Keep a close watch roughly 20 minutes before landing to see Lake Taihu. As you descend, the right side usually provides the best angle to see the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower if visibility allows.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
⛰️

Dabie Mountains

The northern horizon features the rugged, green-covered peaks marking the border between Hubei and Anhui provinces.

🏙️

Wuhan Metropolis

Visible as a massive urban sprawl centered around the intersection of the Yangtze and Han Rivers.

🌊

Lake Chaohu

A prominent freshwater lake near Hefei, often reflecting sunlight during the midday portion of the flight.

🏘️

Yangtze Delta Sprawl

The dense, nearly continuous urban landscape stretching from Nanjing through Suzhou toward the coast.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh southern sun. This side is ideal for spotting the northern mountain ranges and the industrial clusters of the Yangtze's northern bank.

Top Activities in Shanghai
Route Information

Distance: 943 km (586 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min

Departure: YIH (30.55655, 111.479988)

Arrival: SHA (31.19790077209473, 121.33599853515624)

Route Type: Domestic

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