Bankruptcy of designated manager forces campsite closure; Kotoura town aims for late July reopening

A mechanic from Nagoya, Japan, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on READYFOR to start a rental business for motorhomes designed for travel with dogs and cats. The project involves acquiring a JP STAR HAPPY1 Turbo motorhome, equipped with protective mats, waterproof sheets, and cleaning and deodorizing supplies. Funds will cover part of the vehicle purchase, licensing, and launch preparations.

Autobacs has introduced magnetic privacy curtains for vehicles under its Gordon Miller brand. The 800×520 mm curtain is made of Cordura with water-repellent coating and offers 99.7% UV protection. The magnetic attachment simplifies installation and removal. Price is 4000 yen.

The Mapple guidebook editorial team selected four campsites in the Nagano Prefecture lake area. These include Yumenohira with simple tent sites, Himekidairah White Birch with RV and free sites at 1,300 m elevation, Shirakaba Resort with powered pitches and cabins, and takibi hut run by active hunters offering game meat. Most sites operate from mid-May to October, with fees ranging from 300 yen (entry) to 6,000 yen for an RV site.

Moon Star Export (JP STAR brand) unveiled the INFINITY 01 slide-in camper for pickup trucks on June 5, 2026. It features sleeping areas (200×160 cm and 175×80 cm), interior height of about 200 cm, Webasto heater, DC air conditioner, 400 Ah lithium battery, 3000 W inverter, 270-degree awning, portable fridge, shower, 400 W solar panel, and 50 L water tanks. Price: 2,500,000 yen.

Japan C.R.C. added more 'Happy One Premium' camper vans in Okinawa starting June 8, 2026. The 4-person model targets tourists, including foreign visitors. The fleet now covers 11 locations nationwide.

The Ichinoyu hotel chain in Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture) is reviving its car sleeping program for beginners from June 10 to September 30. The cost is 5,500 yen per car on weekdays, including unlimited access to hot springs.