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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
The frosty prefecture boasts a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, cutting across ecological treasures 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: Mountain Passes and Traditional Journeys
### The Fuji Circuit: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This iconic toll path boasts 68 hairpin bends with stunning panoramas of Japan’s iconic peak. Differing from race tracks, it prioritizes landscape appreciation over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### Shimanami Kaidō
Linking two major islands via six suspension bridges, this 70km route offers road trippers panoramic scenes of turquoise seas accentuated through architectural oddities like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Below Tokyo Bay, this legendary meeting spot hosts modified vehicles ranging from vintage Skylines to cutting-edge supercars, illuminated by neon lights.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Musical Highways
These creative pathways transform wheel friction into familiar melodies when driven at exact velocities. The Fuji melody stretch plays traditional melodies, turning ordinary drives into audiovisual experiences.
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### Drifting Heritage
These winding mountain roads exemplify Japan’s car enthusiasm, celebrated in driving anime. Famous trails like Nagano’s mountain passes draw drifters in every weather condition.
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## Key Considerations
### Climate Factors
Studded wheels are essential for northern routes, while rainy season downpours necessitate flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass operates during melting season, forming impressive icy canyons.
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### Driving Etiquette
Cultural awareness includes minimal horn use, careful passing, and acknowledging Japan’s ETC card requirements. Kei automobiles manage constricted lanes more efficiently than full-size cars.