About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Sapporo (SPK) to New Tokyo International (NRT)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Sapporo to Tokyo. The right side wins overall primarily for the takeoff view of Mount Yotei and the Ishikari Plain, which is the most visually dramatic moment of this short flight. During the cruise portion heading south over Honshu, the right side also tracks closer to the Pacific coastline of Tohoku and the Kanto region, offering coastal geography views. The landing left-side advantage is real but less dramatic on this short hop.
What can I see during takeoff from Sapporo in Sapporo?
During takeoff from Sapporo (SPK), sit on the Right side for the best views. New Chitose Airport (CTS) typically departs on runway 01R/19L oriented north-south. Southbound departures on runway 19 give the right side a view over the Ishikari Plain and toward the Yotei-Niseko volcanic range to the southwest. The right side also captures the urban spread of Sapporo city as the aircraft climbs out. Notable sights include: Mount Yotei (conical stratovolcano), Ishikari Plain and Ishikari River delta, Sapporo city grid, Chitose urban area below.
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 typically uses runways 16L/34R and 16R/34L. On approach from the north on runway 16, aircraft track southward over Chiba Prefecture. The left side faces east toward Tokyo Bay and the distinctive reclaimed land of the bay's western shore, while the right side looks inland over suburban sprawl. Left gives the more geographically interesting view. Notable sights include: Tokyo Bay and its reclaimed land zones, Chiba city and port, Narita urban area, Tone River floodplain.
How long is the flight from Sapporo to Tokyo?
The flight from Sapporo (SPK) to New Tokyo International (NRT) takes Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
What does the Sapporo to Tokyo flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Tsugaru Strait between Hokkaido and Honshu, then tracks south over the Tohoku region of northern Honshu. The Ou Mountain Range runs as a spine down central Tohoku and may be visible on the right. The Pacific coastline of Miyagi and Fukushima prefectures is visible to the left on clear days. The flight descends over the northern Kanto Plain approaching Narita.