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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Winter Drives
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, traversing UNESCO-protected wilderness and volcanic calderas. Cold months convert the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though motorists should heed treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Fuji Circuit: A Motorist’s Playground
This celebrated mountain road features dozens of sharp curves with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. In contrast to dedicated courses, it focuses on landscape appreciation over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### The Island Chain Route
Joining two major islands via multiple architectural marvels, this scenic corridor offers road trippers continuous vistas of azure waters punctuated by surreal temples like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Underground Car Haven
Beneath the metropolitan waterfront, this legendary meeting spot draws tuned machines ranging from vintage Skylines to modern hypercars, bathed in neon lights.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These innovative routes transform vehicle movement into familiar melodies when traveled using specific speeds. The Hakone musical road plays traditional melodies, turning mundane trips into multisensory adventures.
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### Touge Culture
These curving highland paths exemplify Japan’s vehicular culture, commemorated in driving anime. Famous trails like The Hakone Turnpike bring in motorsport enthusiasts in every weather condition.
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## Key Considerations
### Climate Factors
Winter tires are essential for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while summer typhoons necessitate contingency arrangements. The Alpine Route operates during melting season, forming 15-meter white walls.
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### Automotive Protocol
Considerate conduct involves quiet driving, careful passing, and acknowledging Japan’s ETC card requirements. Small cars handle tight roads more effectively than full-size cars.