Japanese Landscapes in ‘Forza Horizon 6’ That Redefine the Road Trip
Curated by Hypemaps Team
'Forza Horizon 6’s "The Art of Driving" is a three-part documentary-style video series that explores the Japanese car culture, landscapes, and artistry featured in the game. Hosted by noted automotive photographer Larry Chen, the series connects real-world artists and locations with the game’s murals and map, illustrating that in Japan, “The Art of Driving" is defined by more than just the road, but an intentional connection between the landscape and the traveler. Our guide is built around the rugged resilience of Tohoku, the volcanic warmth of Kyushu, and the storied heritage of Kanto. These regions encourage a slower pace where history and scenery converge, from the steam of a village onsen to the rhythmic clatter of a jazz bar, the atmosphere of each location is paired perfectly with the local flavors and artistic spirit you encounter along the way. Discover the cultural landmarks here from Morioka and Ishinomaki to Waita Village, Nagasaki, and Hakone. They all shape the Japanese roadside experience on your next journey.
Set along the coast in Ishinomaki, the Seawall Museum Ogatsu transforms a massive tsunami protection wall into an evolving open-air art project, where murals carry the memory, resilience and identity of Japan’s Tohoku region. Rather than hiding the weight of the 2011 disaster, the space turns the seawall into a canvas for reflection and community storytelling.
Tucked into the heart of Morioka, Azuma-ya captures the slower, more intentional rhythm of Japan’s Tohoku region through its famous wanko soba experience, where endless small bowls of noodles turn a local tradition into something communal and immersive.The restaurant reflects how Tohoku’s roadside culture is shaped by warmth, ritual and hospitality.
Nestled in the mountains of Japan’s Kyushu region, Houru Inn in Waita Village captures the slower rhythm of onsen life, where geothermal steam powers everything from the baths to locally cooked meals. Surrounded by rolling hills and constant plumes of volcanic steam, the inn reflects a side of Kyushu where nature, hospitality and everyday living exist in complete sync with the landscape.
As Japan’s oldest Chinatown, Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown is packed with steaming bowls of champon, late-night ramen counters and lantern-lit streets that stay lively well into the evening. Blending Chinese and Japanese influences, the neighborhood offers the kind of food-driven atmosphere that naturally pulls people in to wander, snack and experience a different side of Kyushu’s culture.
Hidden within Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Nagasaki’s yatai ramen stalls offer a more intimate side of the city’s food culture, where small counters and steaming bowls pull locals and travelers together late into the night. With only a few seats and the sounds of the street surrounding you, the experience feels personal, spontaneous and deeply connected to the slower rhythm that defines so much of Kyushu’s nightlife.
Located along the winding roads of Hakone in Japan’s Kanto region, Nagai-no Sakamanjo is known for its freshly made manju, offering a warm roadside stop rooted in traditional sweet-making culture. Surrounded by Hakone’s hot springs, mountain air and slower pace, the shop captures the quieter side of Kanto, where simple rituals like tea and steamed buns become part of the overall journey experience.
Hidden in Tokyo’s Kyodo neighborhood within Japan’s Kanto region, Jazz Bar Crazy Love captures the intimate atmosphere of Japan’s jazz kissa culture through dim lighting, live performances and a deep focus on listening. This is where conversations soften, records spin late into the evening and where you can be fully present in the music.