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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Snowy Road Trips
### The Unspoiled Charm of Japan’s Northern Frontier
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a cross-island highway connecting coastal villages, cutting across UNESCO-protected wilderness and volcanic calderas. Winter transforms the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though travelers need to mind hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Traditional Journeys
### The Fuji Circuit: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This celebrated mountain road showcases numerous switchbacks with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Differing from race tracks, it focuses on scenic enjoyment over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Joining mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via multiple architectural marvels, this 70km route provides travelers and adventurers uninterrupted views of azure waters interspersed with unique shrines like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Below the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place hosts tuned machines ranging from vintage Skylines to modern hypercars, lit up with neon lights.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These creative pathways convert wheel friction into recognizable tunes when driven at precise pace. The Hakone musical road produces traditional melodies, converting mundane trips into multisensory adventures.
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### Touge Culture
These winding mountain roads epitomize Japan’s automotive passion, immortalized in driving anime. Legendary paths like Irohazaka’s 48 bends bring in performance drivers in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Weather Precautions
Studded wheels are mandatory for arctic conditions, while rainy season downpours necessitate flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass remains accessible during melting season, creating impressive icy canyons.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior involves rarely honking, methodical lane changes, and understanding Japan’s complex toll system. Compact vehicles handle constricted lanes more effectively than larger models.