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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Winter Drives
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
This northernmost island showcases a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting coastal villages, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and ancient craters. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though motorists should heed hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Traditional Journeys
### The Hakone Turnpike: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This legendary 13km route boasts numerous switchbacks with dramatic vistas of Mount Fuji. Unlike race tracks, it prioritizes landscape appreciation over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Joining two major islands via engineering wonders, this extended pathway offers travelers and adventurers continuous vistas of turquoise seas accentuated through architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Underground Car Haven
Underneath Tokyo Bay, this renowned congregation area draws tuned machines ranging from classic Nissans to contemporary speed machines, lit up with urban glow.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These innovative routes convert tire vibrations into recognizable tunes when driven at specific speeds. The Shizuoka sound path renders traditional melodies, converting mundane trips into audiovisual experiences.
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### Drifting Heritage
These winding mountain roads epitomize Japan’s automotive passion, immortalized in driving anime. Legendary paths like Irohazaka’s 48 bends draw performance drivers in every weather condition.
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## Key Considerations
### Seasonal Challenges
Studded wheels are mandatory for arctic conditions, while rainy season downpours require flexible planning. The Tateyama Snow Corridor remains accessible during melting season, producing impressive icy canyons.
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### Driving Etiquette
Cultural awareness involves rarely honking, patient overtaking, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Small cars handle constricted lanes better than full-size cars.