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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a panoramic drive connecting remote settlements, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and ancient craters. Cold months convert the landscape into an icy paradise, though drivers must navigate treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Switchback Highway: A Motorist’s Playground
This iconic toll path features numerous switchbacks with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. Unlike race tracks, it focuses on scenic enjoyment over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Island Hopping
### The Seto Bridge Trail
Linking mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via six suspension bridges, this scenic corridor delivers cyclists and drivers panoramic scenes of crystalline ocean interspersed with unique shrines like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Underground Car Haven
Beneath the metropolitan waterfront, this renowned congregation area draws customized cars ranging from retro Japanese models to cutting-edge supercars, illuminated by city radiance.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These engineered roads change wheel friction into recognizable tunes when maintaining specific speeds. The Shizuoka sound path renders local ballads, turning mundane trips into audiovisual experiences.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These curving highland paths personify Japan’s automotive passion, immortalized in driving anime. Legendary paths like Nagano’s mountain passes draw drifters through all seasons.
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## Practical Tips
### Weather Precautions
Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while monsoon weather require flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass only opens during melting season, producing 15-meter white walls.
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### Automotive Protocol
Considerate conduct includes rarely honking, patient overtaking, and acknowledging Japan’s complex toll system. Kei automobiles handle tight roads better than larger models.
