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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Snowy Road Trips
### The Untamed Beauty of Japan’s Northern Frontier
This northernmost island showcases a panoramic drive connecting coastal villages, passing through UNESCO-protected wilderness and volcanic calderas. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though travelers need to mind hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Fuji Circuit: A Motorist’s Playground
This iconic toll path features numerous switchbacks with dramatic vistas of Fuji-san. Unlike race tracks, it focuses on visual pleasure over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Island Hopping
### Shimanami Kaidō
Linking two major islands via engineering wonders, this 70km route delivers road trippers continuous vistas of turquoise seas accentuated through surreal temples like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Underground Car Haven
Beneath the urban shoreline, this renowned congregation area draws modified vehicles ranging from vintage Skylines to contemporary speed machines, lit up with neon lights.
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## Unique Experiences
### Musical Highways
These innovative routes change wheel friction into recognizable tunes when maintaining specific speeds. The Hakone musical road renders traditional melodies, converting routine journeys into multisensory adventures.
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### Drifting Heritage
These curving highland paths exemplify Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in car culture media. Famous trails like Irohazaka’s 48 bends draw motorsport enthusiasts year-round.
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## Essential Advice
### Climate Factors
Studded wheels are essential for arctic conditions, while summer typhoons demand flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass only opens during melting season, producing impressive icy canyons.
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### Automotive Protocol
Respectful behavior entails rarely honking, careful passing, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Small cars handle constricted lanes better than larger models.
