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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Winter Drives

### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido

This northernmost island showcases a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting coastal villages, traversing ecological treasures and geothermal wonders. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though drivers must navigate treacherous conditions. https://detourjapan.com/

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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Cultural Trails

### The Switchback Highway: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn

This legendary 13km route features 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. Unlike traditional circuits, it prioritizes visual pleasure over racing.

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## Shikoku: Seaside Marvels and Archipelago Exploration

### Shimanami Kaidō

Linking two major islands via engineering wonders, this extended pathway offers road trippers continuous vistas of crystalline ocean punctuated by architectural oddities like the Western-style Buddhist complex.

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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles

### The Underground Car Haven

Below the metropolitan waterfront, this legendary meeting spot welcomes modified vehicles ranging from classic Nissans to modern hypercars, lit up with neon lights.

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## Distinctive Encounters

### Musical Highways

These creative pathways change tire vibrations into musical compositions when maintaining specific speeds. The Fuji melody stretch plays local ballads, converting routine journeys into musical voyages.

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### Touge Culture

These winding mountain roads exemplify Japan’s car enthusiasm, immortalized in car culture media. Famous trails like Irohazaka’s 48 bends attract drifters through all seasons.

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## Key Considerations

### Seasonal Challenges

Winter tires are essential for northern routes, while rainy season downpours necessitate contingency arrangements. The Alpine Route only opens during melting season, forming 15-meter white walls.

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### Driving Etiquette

Considerate conduct involves rarely honking, patient overtaking, and acknowledging Japan’s complex toll system. Kei automobiles manage tight roads better than larger models.