While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is more dramatic and sustained. The approach over the Ishikari Plain and Chitose River valley provides better visual interest than the departure, making left-side seats the better overall choice for this route.
Flown PEK to CTS? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Beijing to Sapporo is 1,308 miles (2,106 km), a flight of about 3 hours.
The flight crosses the Sea of Japan at roughly 38°N latitude. At cruise altitude (33,000-35,000 feet), the sea itself is visible as a dark expanse with occasional cloud formations. The Korean Peninsula's western coast may be visible to the left (west) during the crossing. As the aircraft approaches Hokkaido from the southwest, the northern Japanese Alps and Daisetsu Mountains become visible on the horizon ahead. The transition from open water to Hokkaido's forested terrain is marked by the Ishikari Bay coastline.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from PEK
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the climb-out over Beijing's urban sprawl and the Western Hills (Yanshan Mountains) to the west. PEK typically departs runway 01L/01R heading north, so right seats get the best view of the city grid and mountain backdrop during initial climb.
Landing at CTS
LEFTLeft-side seats offer superior views during approach to Chitose. CTS typically uses runways 01L/01R or 19L/19R depending on wind. On northbound approaches (runway 01), left seats face west toward the Ishikari Plain and approaching terrain. On southbound approaches (runway 19), left seats face east toward Tomakomai and the coastal approach path over Ishikari Bay.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Capital (PEK) to Chitose International Airport (CTS)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Beijing to Sapporo. While takeoff favors the right, the landing view from the left is more dramatic and sustained. The approach over the Ishikari Plain and Chitose River valley provides better visual interest than the departure, making left-side seats the better overall choice for this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Capital in Beijing?
During takeoff from Capital (PEK), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the climb-out over Beijing's urban sprawl and the Western Hills (Yanshan Mountains) to the west. PEK typically departs runway 01L/01R heading north, so right seats get the best view of the city grid and mountain backdrop during initial climb. Notable sights include: Beijing urban grid and hutong districts, Yanshan Mountains (western ridge), Ming Tombs area to the northwest, Yongding River valley.
What can I see when landing at Chitose International Airport in Sapporo?
When landing at Chitose International Airport (CTS), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer superior views during approach to Chitose. CTS typically uses runways 01L/01R or 19L/19R depending on wind. On northbound approaches (runway 01), left seats face west toward the Ishikari Plain and approaching terrain. On southbound approaches (runway 19), left seats face east toward Tomakomai and the coastal approach path over Ishikari Bay. Notable sights include: Ishikari Plain agricultural fields, Tomakomai industrial area, Ishikari Bay coastline, Chitose River valley.
How long is the flight from Beijing to Sapporo?
The flight from Capital (PEK) to Chitose International Airport (CTS) takes about 3 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 1,308 miles (2,106 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Beijing to Sapporo flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Sea of Japan at roughly 38°N latitude. At cruise altitude (33,000-35,000 feet), the sea itself is visible as a dark expanse with occasional cloud formations. The Korean Peninsula's western coast may be visible to the left (west) during the crossing. As the aircraft approaches Hokkaido from the southwest, the northern Japanese Alps and Daisetsu Mountains become visible on the horizon ahead. The transition from open water to Hokkaido's forested terrain is marked by the Ishikari Bay coastline.