TOYONAKA, Japan >> A brand-new observation deck near Itami Airport in Osaka invites visitors to witness a spectacular sight: giant airplanes gently descending into a sea of twinkling runway lights. But the area offers more than simply a place to appreciate airplanes; it is a front-row seat to a breathtaking light show.

The embankment of the Senri River, which runs along the airport’s eastern side, has been a popular spot for aviation fans. It lies directly under the flight path, offering a thrilling, up-close view of aircraft as they come in to land. That makes it the perfect place for the observation deck.

With about 370 takeoffs and landings at Itami Airport daily, a photo opportunity comes along every few minutes. That means on weekends the riverbank is packed, not just with airplane

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