About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from New Tokyo International (NRT) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tokyo to Shanghai. The right side wins at takeoff with Tokyo Bay views, but the left side delivers more consistently across the full flight — over the East China Sea you get better views of the Korean Peninsula coastline on the horizon during cruise, and the Yangtze delta and Shanghai approach on the left side at landing is the visual highlight of the entire route.
What can I see during takeoff from New Tokyo International in Tokyo?
During takeoff from New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Right side for the best views. NRT typically departs on runways 16R/34L or 16L/34R. On a southwesterly departure toward Shanghai, aircraft initially track south then turn west, putting Tokyo Bay and the Boso Peninsula on the right side. You get a clear view of the bay's broad expanse and the urban sprawl of Chiba and the greater Tokyo metro area spreading inland. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, Boso Peninsula coastline, Chiba urban area, Tokyo metropolitan sprawl to the northwest.
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. PVG typically lands on runways 16/34 or 17/35. On approach from the northeast over the East China Sea, aircraft track southwest toward the Yangtze River delta. The left side gives you the Yangtze River mouth, the sprawling Pudong district, and the dense urban grid of central Shanghai across the Huangpu River. Notable sights include: Yangtze River mouth, Pudong skyline, Huangpu River, Chongming Island.
How long is the flight from Tokyo to Shanghai?
The flight from New Tokyo International (NRT) to Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) takes Approximately 3 hours.
What does the Tokyo to Shanghai flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the East China Sea, which is largely featureless open water at cruise altitude. On clear days the Ryukyu Islands chain (Okinawa and surrounding islands) may be faintly visible to the south on the left side. The Korean Peninsula's southern coast can sometimes be glimpsed on the horizon to the north on the right side. The Yangtze River delta becomes visible during descent, with its distinctive muddy brown plume extending well into the East China Sea.