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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Snowy Road Trips
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
The frosty prefecture features a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting remote settlements, passing through protected natural reserves and ancient craters. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though drivers must navigate challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Hakone Turnpike: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This legendary 13km route features 68 hairpin bends with stunning panoramas of Mount Fuji. Unlike race tracks, it focuses on visual pleasure over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Archipelago Exploration
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting two major islands via six suspension bridges, this scenic corridor delivers travelers and adventurers continuous vistas of crystalline ocean accentuated through architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Below the metropolitan waterfront, this renowned congregation area draws tuned machines ranging from retro Japanese models to contemporary speed machines, illuminated by city radiance.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes convert vehicle movement into familiar melodies when driven at specific speeds. The Fuji melody stretch produces traditional melodies, transforming mundane trips into multisensory adventures.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These winding mountain roads personify Japan’s vehicular culture, commemorated in car culture media. Iconic routes like Nagano’s mountain passes draw drifters through all seasons.
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## Practical Tips
### Weather Precautions
Studded wheels are crucial for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons demand flexible planning. The Alpine Route operates during spring thaw, forming 15-meter white walls.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior includes rarely honking, methodical lane changes, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Kei automobiles navigate tight roads better than bigger vehicles.
