Rare Mercedes and Fiat Ducato Motorhomes Test Drive in Japan

Japanese kei vans Daihatsu Atrai and Honda N-VAN, popular for car camping, received updates for 2026. The Atrai RS (2WD) costs 1,859,000 yen, features a 658cc turbo engine with 64 hp and fuel economy of 14.7 km/L. The N-VAN Fun Turbo (2WD) costs 2,024,000 yen, has a similar engine but more torque (104 Nm) and better efficiency (17 km/L). Atrai offers a flat floor for two, while N-VAN has a fold-down seat and pillarless opening for easy loading.

In April, the Japan Meteorological Agency officially designated days with temperatures of 40°C or higher as 'extreme heat days'. Amid record heat, with five consecutive such days observed for the first time, Camping Car Co. is offering air-conditioned motorhome rentals for construction sites. The service is available at approximately 40 locations nationwide at a corporate rate of 14,900 yen per day. This follows last June's revision of occupational safety rules requiring employers to implement heatstroke countermeasures.

MDN Madonna has unveiled a one-off camper based on the Toyota HiAce Super Long, named 'J'ai Euro Camper'. The vehicle features a full VOGUE aero kit and 19-inch Fabre Valone RM-6 wheels, while the interior is tailored for fishing: cabinets, sink, 1500W inverter, dual battery, 50L fridge, and T-REVO 900 seats. Rear window extension panels increase the bed width to 180 cm. Price is available on request.

Nitori has started selling a sleeping bag that can also be used as a cushion for 3,990 yen. The product has three modes: sleeping bag, blanket, and cushion. In sleeping bag mode, it measures 75×185 cm; in cushion mode, 45×45 cm. It features a carry handle, antibacterial deodorant treatment, and water-repellent finish. The manufacturer recommends it for camping, overnight stays in vehicles, and as an emergency item.

Japanese camping YouTuber MAE CAMP warns that tents are not comfortable in summer heat. Even well-ventilated models become stuffy in direct sunlight. He recommends using a tarp for shade, placing the tent in the shade, and spending daytime under the tarp.

Professional bass angler Hirotoshi Mizuno chose a Mitsubishi Triton pickup with an FT PORTER camper shell as his base for fishing and camping. The bed is equipped with a sink, gas stove, refrigerator, auxiliary battery, heater, and air conditioning. The truck rides on Toyo Open Country M/T tires. Mizuno previously owned an FJ Cruiser and Land Cruiser 80/100. The vehicle was shown at a Toyo Tires event on July 18, 2026, in Aichi Prefecture.