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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Snowy Road Trips
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
This northernmost island boasts a cross-island highway connecting Rausu to Hakodate, cutting across ecological treasures and ancient craters. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though motorists should heed challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Cultural Trails
### The Switchback Highway: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This iconic toll path features 68 hairpin bends with dramatic vistas of Fuji-san. In contrast to dedicated courses, it prioritizes visual pleasure over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Seaside Marvels and Island Hopping
### Shimanami Kaidō
Linking two major islands via six suspension bridges, this scenic corridor offers road trippers uninterrupted views of azure waters interspersed with unique shrines like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### Daikoku PA
Beneath Tokyo Bay, this iconic gathering place hosts tuned machines ranging from classic Nissans to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in city radiance.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These engineered roads convert vehicle movement into familiar melodies when driven at exact velocities. The Hakone musical road renders traditional melodies, turning routine journeys into musical voyages.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These curving highland paths personify Japan’s vehicular culture, commemorated in driving anime. Iconic routes like Irohazaka’s 48 bends bring in drifters in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Seasonal Challenges
Studded wheels are crucial for arctic conditions, while monsoon weather require adaptable itineraries. The Alpine Route operates during melting season, creating towering snow barriers.
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### Road Manners
Cultural awareness includes minimal horn use, patient overtaking, and understanding Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Compact vehicles manage narrow streets better than bigger vehicles.
