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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Raw Splendor of The Snow Country
This northernmost island showcases a cross-island highway connecting coastal villages, traversing ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Snowfall morphs the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though drivers must navigate treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This iconic toll path showcases 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to dedicated courses, it prioritizes visual pleasure over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### The Seto Bridge Trail
Linking mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via multiple architectural marvels, this 70km route offers cyclists and drivers 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
Underneath the urban shoreline, this legendary meeting spot hosts modified vehicles ranging from retro Japanese models to contemporary speed machines, lit up with urban glow.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes transform vehicle movement into recognizable tunes when maintaining precise pace. The Hakone musical road produces local ballads, transforming ordinary drives into musical voyages.
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### Touge Culture
These serpentine alpine routes epitomize Japan’s car enthusiasm, celebrated in initial D manga. Famous trails like Irohazaka’s 48 bends draw drifters year-round.
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## Practical Tips
### Climate Factors
Winter tires are essential for northern routes, while monsoon weather demand adaptable itineraries. The Tateyama Snow Corridor operates during spring thaw, creating impressive icy canyons.
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### Automotive Protocol
Cultural awareness includes minimal horn use, patient overtaking, and respecting Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Small cars navigate constricted lanes more effectively than larger models.