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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Untamed Landscapes and Frosty Journeys
### The Untamed Beauty of Japan’s Northern Frontier
Japan’s Arctic gateway boasts a cross-island highway connecting coastal villages, traversing protected natural reserves and ancient craters. Snowfall morphs the landscape into a powder-covered realm, though drivers must navigate hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/
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## Central Honshu: Alpine Roads and Historic Pathways
### The Switchback Highway: Asia’s Answer to the Autobahn
This legendary 13km route features dozens of sharp curves with stunning panoramas of Japan’s iconic peak. Differing from race tracks, it prioritizes visual pleasure over pure speed.
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## Shikoku: Oceanfront Treasures and Inter-Island Travel
### The Seto Bridge Trail
Connecting two major islands via multiple architectural marvels, this scenic corridor offers cyclists and drivers uninterrupted views of crystalline ocean interspersed with unique shrines like the Western-style Buddhist complex.
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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways
### The Automotive Sanctuary
Below the urban shoreline, this legendary meeting spot draws tuned machines ranging from vintage Skylines to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.
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## Unique Experiences
### Melody Roads
These innovative routes convert wheel friction into recognizable tunes when driven at exact velocities. The Shizuoka sound path produces traditional melodies, turning routine journeys into musical voyages.
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### Drifting Heritage
These curving highland paths epitomize Japan’s vehicular culture, celebrated in initial D manga. Famous trails like Irohazaka’s 48 bends bring in motorsport enthusiasts through all seasons.
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## Practical Tips
### Seasonal Challenges
Winter tires are mandatory for arctic conditions, while monsoon weather necessitate adaptable itineraries. The Tateyama Snow Corridor remains accessible during April-June, creating 15-meter white walls.
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### Driving Etiquette
Respectful behavior involves minimal horn use, patient overtaking, and respecting Japan’s intricate highway payment network. Kei automobiles manage narrow streets more effectively than larger models.