About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Capital (PEK) to Tokyo International (HND)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Beijing to Tokyo. The right side delivers the best single moment of the flight — the sweeping view of central Beijing on departure, which is genuinely spectacular and hard to match. Over the Yellow Sea and East China Sea the views are largely open water on both sides, so the departure view is the decisive factor.
What can I see during takeoff from Capital in Beijing?
During takeoff from Capital (PEK), sit on the Right side for the best views. PEK's primary departure runways (01/19 and 18L/36R) mean eastbound departures to Tokyo typically involve a right turn heading southeast. The right side gives you a sweeping view back over central Beijing including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the urban grid of the old city before you climb out over the eastern suburbs. Notable sights include: Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, Olympic Green and Bird's Nest Stadium to the north, the dense hutong grid of central Beijing, Chaoyang CBD skyline.
What can I see when landing at Tokyo International in Tokyo?
When landing at Tokyo International (HND), sit on the Left side for the best views. Haneda's primary arrival runways for flights from the northwest typically bring aircraft in over Tokyo Bay on approaches to Runway 34L or 22. The left side on final approach gives you a direct view of central Tokyo, Tokyo Bay, and the distinctive silhouette of Tokyo Tower and the broader Yamanote loop district as you descend over the water. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay and its reclaimed land districts, central Tokyo skyline including Tokyo Tower and Shinjuku towers, the Yokohama waterfront and port to the south, Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba.
How long is the flight from Beijing to Tokyo?
The flight from Capital (PEK) to Tokyo International (HND) takes Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.
What does the Beijing to Tokyo flight path pass over?
After departing Beijing the route crosses the North China Plain, then the Bohai Sea, followed by the Korean Peninsula or its southern coast depending on routing. The Yellow Sea and East China Sea dominate the middle portion of the flight. On clear days the Korean coastline and islands of the Yellow Sea are visible. The final approach crosses the Pacific coast of Japan and descends over Tokyo Bay.