SHANRT

Which side of the plane from Shanghai to Tokyo

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Which side of the plane?

Pick the window seat with the view. 13,500 routes answered — landmarks, coastlines and cities, wing by wing.

About This Route

Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Hongqiao International (SHA) to New Tokyo International (NRT)?

Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Tokyo. The right side captures the dramatic Shanghai departure views over the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline, and over the East China Sea crossing. On landing, the right side still gets partial Tokyo Bay views, making it the stronger seat for the full journey even though left is marginally better for the NRT approach specifically.

What can I see during takeoff from Hongqiao International in Shanghai?

During takeoff from Hongqiao International (SHA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Hongqiao's primary departure runway 18R/36L means northbound departures head roughly northeast over the city. The right side gives you a clear view over central Shanghai, the Huangpu River bends, and the Pudong skyline including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower cluster before the city gives way to the Yangtze River delta. Notable sights include: Huangpu River S-bends through central Shanghai, Pudong financial district skyline, Yangtze River delta wetlands and mouth, Chongming Island.

What can I see when landing at New Tokyo International in Tokyo?

When landing at New Tokyo International (NRT), sit on the Left side for the best views. NRT's primary arrival runway 34L/34R brings aircraft in from the south over the Boso Peninsula and Tokyo Bay. The left side faces west, giving a direct view across Tokyo Bay toward the Tokyo metropolitan area, with Mount Fuji visible on clear days far to the southwest on the horizon. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay, Tokyo metropolitan area sprawl to the west, Mount Fuji on the distant southwestern horizon (on clear days), Boso Peninsula coastline below.

How long is the flight from Shanghai to Tokyo?

The flight from Hongqiao International (SHA) to New Tokyo International (NRT) takes Approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours.

What does the Shanghai to Tokyo flight path pass over?

The flight crosses the East China Sea, a largely featureless open ocean stretch at cruise altitude. The Ryukyu Islands chain (Okinawa and surrounding islands) may be visible far to the south depending on routing. The Japanese coastline entry is typically over Shizuoka or Kanagawa Prefecture, where the Izu Peninsula and Sagami Bay become visible, with Mount Fuji potentially visible inland to the north on clear days as the aircraft descends toward Narita.