While takeoff offers good bay views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and geographically significant scenery—the Yangtze estuary and Shanghai's urban landscape are more visually impressive than Osaka's departure.
Flown ITM to PVG? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Osaka to Shanghai is 829 miles (1,334 km), a flight of about 2 hours.
The flight path crosses the East China Sea at roughly 33°N latitude. Notable features include the Oki Islands (Japan) visible shortly after takeoff on the right, open ocean for the majority of the flight, and the approach to the Chinese coast where Hangzhou Bay becomes visible before the final descent into Shanghai. Clear days offer views of the Zhejiang Province coastline with its characteristic bays and peninsulas.
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from ITM
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Osaka Bay and the Kobe-Osaka urban corridor as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and surrounding industrial zones are clearly visible during the initial climb.
Landing at PVG
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views of the Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, and the Shanghai metropolitan area during descent. The river's massive delta and the city's sprawl across the Huangpu River are striking features on approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Osaka International (ITM) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Osaka to Shanghai. While takeoff offers good bay views on the right, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and geographically significant scenery—the Yangtze estuary and Shanghai's urban landscape are more visually impressive than Osaka's departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Osaka International in Osaka?
During takeoff from Osaka International (ITM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Osaka Bay and the Kobe-Osaka urban corridor as the aircraft climbs southwestward. The bay's distinctive shape and surrounding industrial zones are clearly visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Osaka Bay, Kobe city waterfront, Awaji Island, Rokko Mountains (distant).
What can I see when landing at Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?
When landing at Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views of the Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, and the Shanghai metropolitan area during descent. The river's massive delta and the city's sprawl across the Huangpu River are striking features on approach. Notable sights include: Yangtze River estuary, Hangzhou Bay, Huangpu River, Shanghai Pudong skyline.
How long is the flight from Osaka to Shanghai?
The flight from Osaka International (ITM) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes about 2 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 829 miles (1,334 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Osaka to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the East China Sea at roughly 33°N latitude. Notable features include the Oki Islands (Japan) visible shortly after takeoff on the right, open ocean for the majority of the flight, and the approach to the Chinese coast where Hangzhou Bay becomes visible before the final descent into Shanghai. Clear days offer views of the Zhejiang Province coastline with its characteristic bays and peninsulas.