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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Snowy Road Trips

### The Raw Splendor of Japan’s Northern Frontier

This northernmost island boasts a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, passing through protected natural reserves and geothermal wonders. Winter transforms the landscape into an icy paradise, though motorists should heed hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/

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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Traditional Journeys

### The Hakone Turnpike: A Motorist’s Playground

This iconic toll path boasts numerous switchbacks with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. Differing from traditional circuits, it emphasizes visual pleasure over racing.

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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping

### The Island Chain Route

Connecting mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via engineering wonders, this 70km route offers road trippers uninterrupted views of turquoise seas accentuated through unique shrines like the Western-style Buddhist complex.

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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles

### The Underground Car Haven

Below the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from vintage Skylines to contemporary speed machines, lit up with urban glow.

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## Unique Experiences

### Singing Asphalt

These innovative routes transform wheel friction into familiar melodies when driven at precise pace. The Shizuoka sound path renders local ballads, transforming ordinary drives into multisensory adventures.

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### Mountain Pass Tradition

These serpentine alpine routes exemplify Japan’s automotive passion, commemorated in driving anime. Famous trails like The Hakone Turnpike bring in drifters year-round.

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## Essential Advice

### Weather Precautions

Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons necessitate adaptable itineraries. The Toyama mountain pass operates during melting season, producing towering snow barriers.

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### Driving Etiquette

Respectful behavior involves quiet driving, patient overtaking, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Small cars handle tight roads better than full-size cars.