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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Untamed Beauty of Japan’s Northern Frontier
The frosty prefecture showcases a panoramic drive connecting remote settlements, cutting across ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into an icy paradise, though travelers need to mind challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Historic Pathways
### The Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This legendary 13km route showcases dozens of sharp curves with dramatic vistas of Mount Fuji. In contrast to race tracks, it emphasizes scenic enjoyment over racing.
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## Shikoku: Seaside Marvels and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Linking mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via six suspension bridges, this scenic corridor offers cyclists and drivers continuous vistas of crystalline ocean punctuated by architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Beneath Tokyo Bay, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to contemporary speed machines, lit up with urban glow.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These innovative routes convert tire vibrations into musical compositions when driven at precise pace. The Hakone musical road renders traditional melodies, transforming routine journeys into musical voyages.
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### Touge Culture
These serpentine alpine routes personify Japan’s car enthusiasm, immortalized in car culture media. Legendary paths like The Hakone Turnpike bring in drifters in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Weather Precautions
Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while rainy season downpours require adaptable itineraries. The Alpine Route only opens during spring thaw, forming 15-meter white walls.
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### Road Manners
Considerate conduct involves rarely honking, careful passing, and respecting Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Kei automobiles handle tight roads better than bigger vehicles.