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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Winter Drives
### The Raw Splendor of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway features a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting coastal villages, cutting across ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Cold months convert the landscape into an icy paradise, though travelers need to mind hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Traditional Journeys
### The Switchback Highway: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This iconic toll path features numerous switchbacks with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to race tracks, it prioritizes scenic enjoyment over velocity.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### Shimanami Kaidō
Connecting mainland Japan with its southern neighbor via multiple architectural marvels, this extended pathway offers cyclists and drivers panoramic scenes of crystalline ocean accentuated through architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Beneath the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place draws customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Singing Asphalt
These engineered roads transform vehicle movement into musical compositions when maintaining specific speeds. The Shizuoka sound path plays folk songs, turning ordinary drives into musical voyages.
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### Mountain Pass Tradition
These serpentine alpine routes exemplify Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in car culture media. Legendary paths like The Hakone Turnpike bring in performance drivers year-round.
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## Practical Tips
### Seasonal Challenges
Studded wheels are essential for arctic conditions, while rainy season downpours require contingency arrangements. The Toyama mountain pass remains accessible during April-June, forming impressive icy canyons.
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### Automotive Protocol
Considerate conduct includes rarely honking, methodical lane changes, and acknowledging Japan’s ETC card requirements. Kei automobiles manage tight roads better than full-size cars.