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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Winter Drives
### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido
This northernmost island boasts a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting Rausu to Hakodate, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and ancient craters. Snowfall morphs the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though motorists should heed treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Traditional Journeys
### The Hakone Turnpike: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This celebrated mountain road showcases 68 hairpin bends with dramatic vistas of Japan’s iconic peak. Unlike traditional circuits, it emphasizes landscape appreciation over racing.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Island Hopping
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting two major islands via multiple architectural marvels, this extended pathway delivers travelers and adventurers uninterrupted views of crystalline ocean punctuated by unique shrines like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### Daikoku PA
Beneath the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from vintage Skylines to modern hypercars, illuminated by urban glow.
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## Unique Experiences
### Singing Asphalt
These engineered roads transform tire vibrations into musical compositions when maintaining specific speeds. The Shizuoka sound path produces traditional melodies, turning routine journeys into multisensory adventures.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These curving highland paths epitomize Japan’s car enthusiasm, immortalized in driving anime. Iconic routes like Nagano’s mountain passes draw drifters in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Weather Precautions
Studded wheels are mandatory for arctic conditions, while monsoon weather necessitate adaptable itineraries. The Alpine Route only opens during spring thaw, creating towering snow barriers.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior includes rarely honking, patient overtaking, and acknowledging Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Kei automobiles navigate narrow streets more effectively than bigger vehicles.