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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Snowy Road Trips
### The Raw Splendor of The Snow Country
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and ancient craters. Cold months convert the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though travelers need to mind hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Cultural Trails
### The Switchback Highway: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This iconic toll path features 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to traditional circuits, it emphasizes visual pleasure over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Joining two major islands via engineering wonders, this extended pathway delivers travelers and adventurers panoramic scenes of azure waters interspersed with architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### Daikoku PA
Underneath the metropolitan waterfront, this renowned congregation area draws modified vehicles ranging from classic Nissans to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes convert wheel friction into familiar melodies when driven at precise pace. The Fuji melody stretch produces folk songs, converting routine journeys into audiovisual experiences.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These serpentine alpine routes personify Japan’s automotive passion, celebrated in driving anime. Legendary paths like Irohazaka’s 48 bends bring in performance drivers year-round.
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## Essential Advice
### Climate Factors
Winter tires are essential for northern routes, while rainy season downpours require flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass remains accessible during spring thaw, forming 15-meter white walls.
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### Automotive Protocol
Respectful behavior entails rarely honking, patient overtaking, and acknowledging Japan’s ETC card requirements. Kei automobiles navigate tight roads more effectively than bigger vehicles.