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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Winter Drives
### The Untamed Beauty of Hokkaido
Japan’s Arctic gateway showcases a 700-kilometer coastal route connecting coastal villages, traversing ecological treasures and ancient craters. Snowfall morphs the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, though travelers need to mind challenging terrain. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Mountain Passes and Historic Pathways
### The Hakone Turnpike: Japan’s Driving Mecca
This iconic toll path features 68 hairpin bends with breathtaking views of Fuji-san. Unlike traditional circuits, it focuses on landscape appreciation over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Coastal Wonders and Island Hopping
### The Seto Bridge Trail
Joining Honshu and Shikoku via six suspension bridges, this extended pathway offers travelers and adventurers panoramic scenes of crystalline ocean accentuated through surreal temples like the Italian-inspired sanctuary.
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## Urban Adventures: Concrete Jungles
### Daikoku PA
Beneath the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place draws tuned machines ranging from vintage Skylines to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.
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## Distinctive Encounters
### Musical Highways
These creative pathways change vehicle movement into musical compositions when driven at precise pace. The Hakone musical road renders traditional melodies, transforming ordinary drives into multisensory adventures.
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### Drifting Heritage
These serpentine alpine routes epitomize Japan’s vehicular culture, immortalized in initial D manga. Legendary paths like Nagano’s mountain passes draw motorsport enthusiasts through all seasons.
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## Practical Tips
### Seasonal Challenges
Winter tires are essential for arctic conditions, while rainy season downpours necessitate contingency arrangements. The Toyama mountain pass remains accessible during melting season, forming impressive icy canyons.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior involves rarely honking, methodical lane changes, and acknowledging Japan’s complex toll system. Small cars handle constricted lanes more efficiently than bigger vehicles.
