Couple DIYs kei van into camper, travels Japan for 1.5 years

At the Rihei Chaya Forest Park campsite in Gunma Prefecture, located at an altitude of 1000 meters on Mount Akagi, the organization KiKi, which became the designated manager this spring, is preparing barbecue areas and facilities for staying with pets. A dedicated tent site for groups, which other campsites avoid due to noise, has also been set up. These efforts aim to draw visitors from outside the prefecture and revitalize the local area.

Sanjo Mitsubishi Motors Sales and Kato Motor from Niigata Prefecture have introduced the NOCTI camper based on the Mitsubishi Delica D:5. The vehicle features the S-AWC all-wheel-drive system and a 2.2-liter diesel engine, offering high off-road capability. Its dimensions (4800×1815×1875 mm) allow parking in standard garages. The camper includes a 12-volt cooler.

NOSWEB has introduced an air helper that lets camper owners adjust vehicle height for a flat sleeping position. The system is designed for motorhomes and camper vans, ensuring a comfortable night's rest on uneven terrain.

Japanese builder Direct Cars has unveiled the soup, a light camper based on the Toyota TownAce Van GL. Prices start at 4.48 million yen for the 2WD version and 4.78 million yen for the 4WD. The camper features split second-row seats that can be folded to carry long items, full interior trim, a portable battery, LED spotlights, and an external shower. It seats four and is classified under Japan's 8-number plate category.

The Japan RV Association continues to expand its network of paid overnight parking facilities for car campers. The new RV Park Osasa is located at a pasture at an altitude of 1,300 meters in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. The park operates from mid-April to late October, accommodates 12 vehicles, and costs from 3,900 yen per night. Amenities include 24-hour toilets, electricity, and water, but trash must be taken away. Dairy products made from Brown Swiss cow milk are sold on site.

Japanese tuning company DAMD has built a compact sleeper camper based on the Daihatsu Atrai chassis. Despite its small size, the vehicle is fully equipped for camping, offering an alternative for those who cannot afford a full-size motorhome.