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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Frosty Journeys
### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido
The frosty prefecture showcases a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting coastal villages, cutting across ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though motorists should heed challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Switchback Highway: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This celebrated mountain road boasts numerous switchbacks with dramatic vistas of Mount Fuji. In contrast to dedicated courses, it focuses on landscape appreciation over racing.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting two major islands via six suspension bridges, this extended pathway provides road trippers panoramic scenes of crystalline ocean punctuated by unique shrines like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles
### The Underground Car Haven
Below the metropolitan waterfront, this iconic gathering place welcomes customized cars ranging from vintage Skylines to contemporary speed machines, bathed in city radiance.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Singing Asphalt
These innovative routes transform vehicle movement into recognizable tunes when traveled using exact velocities. The Hakone musical road produces folk songs, converting ordinary drives into audiovisual experiences.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These winding mountain roads personify Japan’s automotive passion, celebrated in car culture media. Famous trails like Nagano’s mountain passes attract performance drivers year-round.
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## Key Considerations
### Weather Precautions
Snow chains are crucial for northern routes, while rainy season downpours necessitate contingency arrangements. The Tateyama Snow Corridor only opens during spring thaw, creating 15-meter white walls.
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### Automotive Protocol
Respectful behavior entails minimal horn use, patient overtaking, and understanding Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Small cars handle tight roads more efficiently than bigger vehicles.