From Thailand to Japan: How to Spot Mt Fuji From Your Flight

Catching a glimpse of a Mt Fuji airplane view from above is a truly breathtaking experience. Its perfectly symmetrical, snow-capped peak rising above the clouds against a brilliant blue sky is a sight that will leave you in awe. But how can you ensure you get the best view from your seat?

Wondering which side of the plane to see Mount Fuji? In this guide, we’ll share seat selection tips for flights from Thailand to Japan, helping you maximize your chances of witnessing this iconic landmark from above. Whether you’re flying to Narita or Haneda, a little planning can turn an ordinary flight into an unforgettable start to your Japanese adventure!

Revered by the Japanese as “Fujisan,” Mount Fuji is more than just Japan’s tallest peak—it’s a cultural and spiritual symbol that has captivated people for centuries. Standing at 3,776 meters above sea level, this majestic volcano straddles Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.

Mount Fuji’s perfectly symmetrical cone shape is a result of multiple eruptions over thousands of years, with layers of lava and volcanic ash forming its iconic silhouette. During winter, the peak is covered in a blanket of snow, creating a breathtaking contrast against the clear blue sky. Its timeless beauty and cultural significance earned it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 2013, solidifying its status as one of Japan’s most treasured landmarks.

For travelers flying from Thailand to Tokyo, selecting the right seat can mean the difference between an ordinary flight and an unforgettable Mt Fuji airplane view. If you’re wondering which side of the plane to see Mount Fuji, here’s a quick guide to help you secure the best spot for that perfect aerial glimpse of Japan’s iconic peak.

Flights to Narita Airport (NRT):

  • Thailand to Japan: Choose a left-side seat.
  • Japan to Thailand: Choose a right-side seat.

Flights to Haneda Airport (HND):

  • Thailand to Japan: Choose a right-side seat.
  • Japan to Thailand: Choose a left-side seat.

When booking your seat, check the airline’s seat map to ensure an unobstructed view. Avoid seats near the wings, as they can block your view of Mount Fuji. Opt for front or rear window seats for the best vantage point.

To maximize your chances of seeing Mount Fuji, book a morning flight (8:00–11:00 AM). During this time, the sky is generally clear, with minimal cloud cover, making for spectacular visibility. 

For the best conditions, plan your trip between December and April—the winter and early spring months—when the air is crisp and clear, offering the highest probability of a full, unobstructed view of Fujisan’s snow-capped peak.

Photographing Mount Fuji from an airplane can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you can capture a stunning shot:

  • Prepare your camera in advance. If using a DSLR, set a high shutter speed to avoid motion blur.
  • For smartphone photography, shield the lens from window glare using your hand or a dark object.
  • Adjust the brightness manually to prevent overexposure, especially in bright daylight.
  • Shoot at an angle, rather than straight through the window, to reduce reflections.

While seeing Mt Fuji airplane view is a breathtaking experience, nothing compares to witnessing its grandeur up close. Japan offers numerous scenic viewpoints where you can admire Fujisan from different angles, each with its own unique charm. If you’re traveling to Japan, make sure to visit at least one of these iconic locations for an unforgettable view.

One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko is perhaps the most famous and accessible viewing spot. The lake’s calm waters perfectly reflect Mount Fuji, creating a picture-perfect scene, especially during early mornings or sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink.

Top Viewing Spots at Lake Kawaguchiko:

     • Kachi Kachi Ropeway (カチカチ山ロープウェイ): Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Mount Fuji from the mountaintop cable car station.
     •​​​​​​​ Oishi Park (大石公園): A lakeside park known for its seasonal lavender fields, offering a stunning backdrop for photography.
     •​​​​​​​ Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum (河口湖オルゴールの森美術館): A unique European-style music box museum with a gorgeous lakeside view of Mount Fuji.

Located on the eastern side of Mount Fuji, Gotemba is famous for its premium outlets, but it also boasts incredible viewpoints for those who want to admire the mountain beyond shopping.

Best Viewing Spots in Gotemba:

     • Gotemba Peace Park (御殿場平和公園): A serene park with multiple viewpoints showcasing Mount Fuji.
     • Gotemba Kogen (御殿場高原): A high-altitude vantage point providing a unique perspective of the mountain.
     •​​​​​​​ Fuji Subaru Line: A scenic driving route leading up to Mount Fuji’s 5th station, offering breathtaking views along the way.

Located to the west of Mount Fuji, Shizuoka Prefecture is known for its lush tea plantations, where you can capture Mount Fuji rising above endless green tea fields—a truly authentic Japanese landscape.

Top Viewing Spots in Shizuoka:

     • Obuchi Sasaba (大淵笹場): A picturesque tea plantation where Mount Fuji towers beautifully in the background.
     • Nihondaira Park (日本平公園): A hilltop park offering a panoramic view of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji at the same time.
     •​​​​​​​ Chichibu Tea Garden (秩父園): A traditional tea garden where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while admiring Mount Fuji.

Capturing Mt Fuji airplane view may appear to be a matter of luck, but with a little planning, you can significantly increase your chances. Choosing the proper seat is critical—for flights to Narita Airport, take a window seat on the left side, while for Haneda Airport, the greatest views are on the right side. Flights between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM usually have the clearest skies, especially in the winter and early spring when visibility is at its best.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to book your flights, accommodations, and activities well in advance, particularly during peak seasons like cherry blossom (spring) and fall foliage (autumn). And don’t forget—by following these seat selection tips, you could be one of the lucky travelers treated to an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Mount Fuji, making your journey to Japan even more magical!