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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Unspoiled Charm of Japan’s Northern Frontier
This northernmost island features a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, traversing protected natural reserves and volcanic calderas. Winter transforms the landscape into an icy paradise, though motorists should heed hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Cultural Trails
### The Switchback Highway: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This celebrated mountain road showcases 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to race tracks, it prioritizes visual pleasure over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Island Hopping
### The Island Chain Route
Joining two major islands via engineering wonders, this scenic corridor provides road trippers continuous vistas of azure waters interspersed with architectural oddities like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Underneath the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place draws customized cars ranging from vintage Skylines to cutting-edge supercars, illuminated by neon lights.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Musical Highways
These creative pathways convert tire vibrations into recognizable tunes when maintaining specific speeds. The Fuji melody stretch produces folk songs, transforming routine journeys into musical voyages.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These curving highland paths personify Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in initial D manga. Famous trails like The Hakone Turnpike attract performance drivers through all seasons.
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## Key Considerations
### Climate Factors
Studded wheels are crucial for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while monsoon weather require flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass only opens during melting season, forming towering snow barriers.
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### Automotive Protocol
Considerate conduct includes quiet driving, methodical lane changes, and understanding Japan’s ETC card requirements. Compact vehicles handle constricted lanes more efficiently than full-size cars.