Land Cruiser 250 owner ditches tent for car camping after 4,300 km in Hokkaido

PAPA BUILD unveiled the 'Doggy' camper based on the Daihatsu Hijet Truck at the Tokyo Camping Car Show 2026. It features an ultra-fast charging system and an optional monitoring camera for pets. Two interior layouts are available: L-type with a side sofa and S-type with a rear-facing seat.

Japanese company Recvee has introduced the Plus SL camper built on the Toyota Hiace Super Long chassis. The model features a U-shaped layout that creates a spacious living area. A separate room at the rear can be used as a wardrobe or toilet. The camper is available with a 2.7-liter petrol or 2.8-liter diesel engine, rear or all-wheel drive. Price in Japan starts at 7 million yen.

Indiana·RV has introduced the AVT2037 JAPAN travel trailer, designed for Japanese roads and parking spaces. The model weighs under 750 kg, so no special towing license is required. Its price and size are positioned as 'just right' amid rising motorhome costs.

The RV Park FujiFarm TAJIMA Base Field, certified by the Japan RV Association, has opened in Asago, Hyogo Prefecture. Located on a farm, it offers 2 parking spaces, 24-hour toilets, paid electricity, paid garbage disposal, and free water. Rates start at 3,300 yen per night per vehicle. Takeda Castle, known as the 'castle in the sky,' is about 15 minutes away by car.

An author who has been living in his car for over two years shares his experience of overnight parking on Chiba's beaches. He notes that local parking lots, popular among surfers and fishermen, often have 24-hour toilets and free showers. Recommended spots include Ichinomiya parking (paid, 500–1000 yen depending on season) and Izumura free parking, where at night only the sound of waves is heard.

The average cost of a double room in central Tokyo last month rose about 70% compared to the same month seven years ago. In response, railway companies are expanding night train services, and camper van rental demand at one company this month increased 3.3 times year-on-year.