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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Snowy Road Trips
### The Unspoiled Charm of Japan’s Northern Frontier
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a cross-island highway connecting Rausu to Hakodate, traversing ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into an icy paradise, though travelers need to mind hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Cultural Trails
### The Hakone Turnpike: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This legendary 13km route showcases dozens of sharp curves with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to dedicated courses, it emphasizes scenic enjoyment over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Linking mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via six suspension bridges, this extended pathway delivers cyclists and drivers continuous vistas of crystalline ocean punctuated by architectural oddities like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Underground Car Haven
Below the urban shoreline, this legendary meeting spot hosts customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to contemporary speed machines, bathed in urban glow.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes change vehicle movement into musical compositions when driven at precise pace. The Fuji melody stretch renders traditional melodies, converting ordinary drives into musical voyages.
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### Touge Culture
These winding mountain roads exemplify Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in car culture media. Iconic routes like Irohazaka’s 48 bends bring in performance drivers year-round.
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## Key Considerations
### Weather Precautions
Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons demand flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass operates during melting season, forming 15-meter white walls.
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### Road Manners
Respectful behavior entails quiet driving, careful passing, and acknowledging Japan’s ETC card requirements. Kei automobiles manage tight roads better than larger models.