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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Snowy Road Trips
### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido
The frosty prefecture boasts a panoramic drive connecting coastal villages, passing through UNESCO-protected wilderness and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though drivers must navigate treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Traditional Journeys
### The Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This iconic toll path features 68 hairpin bends with stunning panoramas of Mount Fuji. Unlike dedicated courses, it emphasizes scenic enjoyment over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Archipelago Exploration
### The Island Chain Route
Connecting two major islands via engineering wonders, this extended pathway provides road trippers continuous vistas of turquoise seas interspersed with unique shrines like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### Daikoku PA
Beneath the urban shoreline, this legendary meeting spot hosts modified vehicles ranging from vintage Skylines to contemporary speed machines, bathed in city radiance.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Singing Asphalt
These engineered roads change vehicle movement into musical compositions when driven at precise pace. The Hakone musical road produces traditional melodies, turning mundane trips into musical voyages.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These winding mountain roads personify Japan’s car enthusiasm, immortalized in initial D manga. Iconic routes like Irohazaka’s 48 bends attract drifters through all seasons.
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## Essential Advice
### Seasonal Challenges
Winter tires are mandatory for northern routes, while monsoon weather require flexible planning. The Alpine Route operates during spring thaw, producing impressive icy canyons.
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### Driving Etiquette
Considerate conduct entails minimal horn use, methodical lane changes, and acknowledging Japan’s complex toll system. Compact vehicles manage tight roads more effectively than bigger vehicles.