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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Frosty Journeys
### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway features a cross-island highway connecting Rausu to Hakodate, cutting across ecological treasures 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 Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This legendary 13km route features numerous switchbacks with dramatic vistas of Fuji-san. In contrast to traditional circuits, it focuses on scenic enjoyment over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Archipelago Exploration
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting Honshu and Shikoku via multiple architectural marvels, this extended pathway offers travelers and adventurers continuous vistas of azure waters interspersed with surreal temples like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Underground Car Haven
Beneath the metropolitan waterfront, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from retro Japanese models to modern hypercars, bathed in city radiance.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These creative pathways change wheel friction into familiar melodies when maintaining specific speeds. The Fuji melody stretch produces traditional melodies, turning ordinary drives into musical voyages.
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### Drifting Heritage
These serpentine alpine routes personify Japan’s car enthusiasm, immortalized in initial D manga. Legendary paths like Irohazaka’s 48 bends attract performance drivers year-round.
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## Key Considerations
### Seasonal Challenges
Studded wheels are crucial for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons demand flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass operates during melting season, forming towering snow barriers.
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### Driving Etiquette
Considerate conduct includes minimal horn use, methodical lane changes, and acknowledging Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Kei automobiles navigate narrow streets better than bigger vehicles.