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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Frosty Journeys
### The Raw Splendor of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway boasts a panoramic drive connecting Rausu to Hakodate, cutting across protected natural reserves and volcanic calderas. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though motorists should heed treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Traditional Journeys
### The Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This legendary 13km route features 68 hairpin bends with dramatic vistas of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to traditional circuits, it focuses on landscape appreciation over racing.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Archipelago Exploration
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting two major islands via six suspension bridges, this scenic corridor delivers cyclists and drivers continuous vistas of azure waters accentuated through unique shrines like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Underneath the metropolitan waterfront, this legendary meeting spot welcomes tuned machines ranging from retro Japanese models to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in neon lights.
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## Unique Experiences
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes convert tire vibrations into familiar melodies when maintaining precise pace. The Fuji melody stretch plays local ballads, transforming ordinary drives into multisensory adventures.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These serpentine alpine routes exemplify Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in initial D manga. Legendary paths like The Hakone Turnpike attract motorsport enthusiasts in every weather condition.
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## Essential Advice
### Climate Factors
Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons necessitate flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass only opens during melting season, producing towering snow barriers.
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### Automotive Protocol
Considerate conduct entails quiet driving, careful passing, and understanding Japan’s ETC card requirements. Compact vehicles navigate tight roads more effectively than full-size cars.
