Carstay forecasts record camper bookings for summer 2026

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.

UI Vehicle showcased wide-angle door mirrors for the sixth-generation and newer Toyota HiAce at the Tokyo Camping Car Show 2026. The mirrors aim to improve visibility, a known issue for the model. The event took place on July 11–12, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight.

As hotel costs in Japan surge, travelers increasingly turn to night trains and camper rentals to combine transport and accommodation. According to Nippon TV, JR West's night train West Express Ginga covers Kyoto to Shingu in 12 hours for 8,670 yen. JR East is developing a new night service from Shinagawa to Aomori (12.5–15 hours), and JR Central will run a special night Shinkansen on the Tokyo–Shin-Osaka route. Average hotel rates for two in central Tokyo have risen 70% over seven years. A 24-hour camper rental for four people costs about 38,000 yen, making it a cost-effective option. One camper rental agency reported bookings 3.3 times higher than last year.