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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Frosty Journeys
### The Raw Splendor of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a cross-island highway connecting coastal villages, passing through protected natural reserves and volcanic calderas. Winter transforms the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though drivers must navigate treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Cultural Trails
### The Switchback Highway: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This legendary 13km route features numerous switchbacks with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. Differing from dedicated courses, it emphasizes landscape appreciation over racing.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### The Island Chain Route
Joining mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via multiple architectural marvels, this extended pathway offers cyclists and drivers panoramic scenes of crystalline ocean punctuated by surreal temples like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Underground Car Haven
Beneath Tokyo Bay, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from retro Japanese models to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Melody Roads
These creative pathways transform wheel friction into musical compositions when maintaining exact velocities. The Hakone musical road produces local ballads, converting mundane trips into musical voyages.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These curving highland paths exemplify Japan’s automotive passion, immortalized in car culture media. Famous trails like The Hakone Turnpike bring in motorsport enthusiasts in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Climate Factors
Studded wheels are mandatory for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons require flexible planning. The Alpine Route only opens during melting season, producing impressive icy canyons.
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### Road Manners
Respectful behavior includes minimal horn use, patient overtaking, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Compact vehicles manage narrow streets more efficiently than full-size cars.
