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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Frosty Journeys
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
This northernmost island showcases a panoramic drive connecting Rausu to Hakodate, cutting across UNESCO-protected wilderness and volcanic calderas. Cold months convert the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though drivers must navigate challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Cultural Trails
### The Fuji Circuit: A Motorist’s Playground
This iconic toll path boasts dozens of sharp curves with dramatic vistas of Japan’s iconic peak. Differing from dedicated courses, it prioritizes visual pleasure over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Joining Honshu and Shikoku via multiple architectural marvels, this scenic corridor delivers cyclists and drivers uninterrupted views of crystalline ocean interspersed with architectural oddities like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Metropolitan Highways
### The Underground Car Haven
Below the metropolitan waterfront, this legendary meeting spot welcomes customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to contemporary speed machines, illuminated by urban glow.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes transform tire vibrations into familiar melodies when maintaining precise pace. The Fuji melody stretch plays local ballads, turning ordinary drives into musical voyages.
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### Touge Culture
These winding mountain roads epitomize Japan’s automotive passion, immortalized in driving anime. Famous trails like The Hakone Turnpike bring in drifters year-round.
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## Practical Tips
### Seasonal Challenges
Snow chains are crucial for northern routes, while rainy season downpours require flexible planning. The Toyama mountain pass operates during melting season, creating 15-meter white walls.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior includes minimal horn use, careful passing, and respecting Japan’s complex toll system. Small cars navigate tight roads more effectively than bigger vehicles.
