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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Frosty Journeys
### The Unspoiled Charm of Japan’s Northern Frontier
This northernmost island features a panoramic drive connecting coastal villages, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though travelers need to mind challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Historic Pathways
### The Switchback Highway: A Motorist’s Playground
This celebrated mountain road showcases 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. In contrast to dedicated courses, it focuses on scenic enjoyment over racing.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### The Island Chain Route
Linking Honshu and Shikoku via multiple architectural marvels, this 70km route provides cyclists and drivers uninterrupted views of turquoise seas accentuated through architectural oddities like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Below the metropolitan waterfront, this iconic gathering place draws customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to modern hypercars, lit up with city radiance.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These innovative routes convert vehicle movement into musical compositions when maintaining specific speeds. The Hakone musical road renders traditional melodies, converting routine journeys into musical voyages.
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### Touge Culture
These winding mountain roads epitomize Japan’s car enthusiasm, celebrated in driving anime. Famous trails like Nagano’s mountain passes bring in drifters in every weather condition.
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## Key Considerations
### Weather Precautions
Snow chains are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while rainy season downpours require adaptable itineraries. The Alpine Route operates during April-June, producing 15-meter white walls.
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### Road Manners
Considerate conduct entails quiet driving, careful passing, and understanding Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Small cars handle tight roads more effectively than bigger vehicles.