Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Sapporo to Seoul. While takeoff favors the right, the landing approach is more visually rewarding and comprises the majority of the descent phase. Left-side seats capture the approach over the Yellow Sea and Incheon's distinctive artificial islands, which are more dramatic than the departure views. The flight path itself (southwest from Sapporo to Seoul) means left-side seats also capture better views of the Korea Strait crossing.

During takeoff from Chitose International Airport (CTS), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the climb-out over Ishikari Bay and the Ishikari Plain stretching inland. Depending on runway direction (typically 01/19), you'll see either the bay's northern coastline or the agricultural flatlands extending south toward Tomakomai. The contrast between water and developed lowlands is striking during initial climb. Notable sights include: Ishikari Bay (immediate offshore), Tomakomai industrial zone (south, visible as grid pattern), Yufutsu Mountains (distant southeast, low profile), Chitose River valley (inland, linear feature).

When landing at Incheon International (ICN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best approach views into Incheon. Depending on runway direction (typically 03L/03R or 15L/15R), westbound approaches descend over the Yellow Sea and Incheon's reclaimed land zones. You'll see the distinctive geometric patterns of the airport's artificial islands and the Han River estuary to the east, with Seoul's urban sprawl visible inland. Notable sights include: Incheon's reclaimed land islands (geometric, artificial), Yellow Sea (western approach), Han River estuary (eastern side, linear), Seoul metropolitan area (distant inland, haze layer).

The flight from Chitose International Airport (CTS) to Incheon International (ICN) takes Approximately 2 hours 15 minutes.

The flight crosses the Korea Strait at roughly 39.5°N, 130°E. At cruise altitude (33,000-35,000 feet), the strait itself is visible as a dark water body separating Hokkaido's southern coast from the Korean peninsula. The Tsushima Islands (Japanese territory) appear as small landmasses in the strait's center. On clear days, the Kyushu region's northern coast is visible to the south. The Korean peninsula's western coast becomes increasingly distinct as you approach Incheon, with the Yellow Sea's lighter coloration contrasting with deeper ocean water to the west.