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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Rugged Terrain and Snowy Road Trips
### The Unspoiled Charm of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway features a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting remote settlements, cutting across protected natural reserves and geothermal wonders. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though drivers must navigate challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Traditional Journeys
### The Fuji Circuit: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This legendary 13km route boasts 68 hairpin bends with dramatic vistas of Mount Fuji. Unlike dedicated courses, it focuses on scenic enjoyment over racing.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Archipelago Exploration
### The Island Chain Route
Joining two major islands via multiple architectural marvels, this 70km route delivers road trippers uninterrupted views of crystalline ocean accentuated through architectural oddities like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### Daikoku PA
Below the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place hosts tuned machines ranging from classic Nissans to modern hypercars, bathed in neon lights.
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## Exceptional Adventures
### Melody Roads
These engineered roads change wheel friction into recognizable tunes when maintaining precise pace. The Shizuoka sound path renders folk songs, turning mundane trips into multisensory adventures.
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### Touge Culture
These curving highland paths exemplify Japan’s car enthusiasm, celebrated in initial D manga. Legendary paths like Irohazaka’s 48 bends attract drifters in every weather condition.
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## Key Considerations
### Weather Precautions
Snow chains are crucial for Hokkaido’s snowy roads, while monsoon weather demand adaptable itineraries. The Toyama mountain pass only opens during spring thaw, forming impressive icy canyons.
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### Automotive Protocol
Respectful behavior entails quiet driving, careful passing, and acknowledging Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Kei automobiles handle narrow streets more efficiently than full-size cars.
