Scenic Drives in Japan

Bridgestone, the renowned tire manufacturer, has curated a list of the six most beautiful driving routes in Japan during the summer.

Tsunoshima Bridge, Yamaguchi
When it comes to breathtaking road trips, Tsunoshima Bridge (Tsunoshima-Ōhashi) in the northwest of Yamaguchi Prefecture stands out. As the second-longest bridge in Japan at 1,780 meters, it offers a captivating journey across a beach with white sand and emerald waters. Crossing this bridge gives a unique sensation of driving above the sea.

Route 134, Kanagawa
For a romantic summer drive not far from Tokyo, Route 134 (Kokudō 134-gō) along the coast is perfect. Stretching 60 km from Yokosuka to Ōiso, it takes you through scenic spots like Hayama, Zushi, Inamuragasaki, Shichirigahama, Enoshima, and other famous locations in the Shōnan area. Lined with renowned restaurants, trendy cafes, and various delightful experiences, this route has been featured in movies, TV shows, and J-pop songs.

Route 161, Shiga
To marvel at Lake Biwa's beauty by car, take the "Lake Biwa West Traversal" (Biwako Nishi Jūkan Dōro). This 80 km route connects Route 161 and 303, offering breathtaking views along Lake Biwa's shore from Kinomoto Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway to Kyoto Higashi Interchange on the Meishin Expressway. The section between Kitakomatsu City and Takashima City is renowned for its scenic views along Lake Biwa and the historic Shirahige Shrine with its impressive Torii gate.

Kawazu Nanadaru Loop Bridge, Shizuoka
Kawazu Nanadaru Loop Bridge is one of the most famous bridges on the Izu Peninsula and is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Located on Route 414, drivers literally loop 45 meters up or down along an 80-meter diameter, 1,064-meter-long double-helix-shaped road. The bridge is part of the route to Kawazu Nanadaru Waterfalls, where visitors can enjoy stunning scenery and refreshing summer vibes.

Chirihama Beach Drive, Ishikawa
Situated on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, the drive to Chirihama Beach (Chirihama Nagisa Driveway) is an 8 km stretch from Imahama to Chirihama-machi in the City of Hakui. The fine sand absorbs seawater and solidifies, creating a unique stretch of beach where normal cars can drive. Speed limits and parking restrictions are in place during the summer, with potential traffic limitations based on weather conditions, such as high waves.

Niji no Matsubara Avenue, Saga
Niji-no-Matsubara (Rainbow Pine Grove) in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, is one of Japan's three most beautiful pine groves. The 4.5 km stretch along Route 347 (Niji-no-Matsubara Avenue) features about one million dense black pine trees, providing a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring experience as sunlight filters through the needles. Along this route, you can also stop by Karatsu Burger, a local sandwich shop, for a quick bite. The name "Niji" means rainbow, inspired by the arched shape of the pine grove resembling a rainbow when approaching the turn.

Explore these scenic drives for an unforgettable journey through Japan's diverse landscapes, capturing the essence of the Land of the Rising Sun. For more captivating visuals, check out Bridgestone's official Instagram account and search for the hashtag #ブリヂストン日本の道90選 to enjoy a curated collection of 90 beautiful roads in Japan.

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