# Discovering Japan Through Scenic Detours: An Expedition Beyond the Conventional Routes

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## Northern Japan: Hokkaido’s Wilderness and Frosty Journeys

### The Unspoiled Charm of The Snow Country

This northernmost island boasts a cross-island highway connecting remote settlements, passing through protected natural reserves and volcanic calderas. Snowfall morphs the landscape into an icy paradise, though drivers must navigate hazardous roads. https://detourjapan.com/

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## Central Honshu: Highland Routes and Traditional Journeys

### The Hakone Turnpike: A Motorist’s Playground

This legendary 13km route features dozens of sharp curves with dramatic vistas of Japan’s iconic peak. In contrast to dedicated courses, it emphasizes scenic enjoyment over pure speed.

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## Shikoku: Seaside Marvels and Island Hopping

### The Island Chain Route

Linking two major islands via multiple architectural marvels, this extended pathway delivers road trippers continuous vistas of azure waters punctuated by unique shrines like Kōsan-ji’s marble marvel.

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## Urban Adventures: Tokyo’s Expressways

### The Underground Car Haven

Underneath the urban shoreline, this iconic gathering place hosts customized cars ranging from classic Nissans to cutting-edge supercars, bathed in urban glow.

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## Exceptional Adventures

### Musical Highways

These innovative routes transform wheel friction into recognizable tunes when traveled using precise pace. The Hakone musical road plays folk songs, turning mundane trips into audiovisual experiences.

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### Mountain Pass Tradition

These curving highland paths epitomize Japan’s automotive passion, celebrated in driving anime. Iconic routes like The Hakone Turnpike bring in drifters year-round.

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## Key Considerations

### Climate Factors

Winter tires are essential for northern routes, while summer typhoons demand flexible planning. The Tateyama Snow Corridor only opens during melting season, creating impressive icy canyons.

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### Road Manners

Considerate conduct entails minimal horn use, careful passing, and respecting Japan’s ETC card requirements. Small cars manage narrow streets better than larger models.