Honda unveils prototype of ultra-light travel trailer weighing around 600 kg

The OUTFIELD BREEZE BOX (PA-F85A) portable air conditioner, priced at 59,800 yen, was tested in a camper van based on the Toyota Town Ace. Over two hours, the interior temperature dropped from 31°C to 24.6°C with an outside temperature of 26.6°C, while humidity rose from 45% to 53%. The unit consumes 180–200 W; after two hours, a 1000 Wh portable power station retained 69% charge. Limitations include heat radiation near the unit and reduced efficiency in a hot vehicle; pre-cooling and ventilation are recommended.

A month after the magnitude-7 earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, authorities say they still cannot fully assess the situation of evacuees living in their vehicles. Some municipalities have set up dedicated parking areas for car camping, but the exact number of people staying outside official shelters remains unclear. Building a support system for these 'invisible evacuees' continues to be a challenge.

The Japan RV Association (JRVA) will exhibit at Tourism Expo Japan 2026, held from September 24 to 27 at Tokyo Big Sight. The association will propose a travel style called 'drive tourism' (motorhome travel and sleeping in vehicles). According to JRVA, the number of motorhomes in Japan has increased from 100,000 in 2016 to 173,000 in 2025, driven by rental growth and inbound demand.

Japanese YouTuber Kazussh spent a night in a Tesla with the air conditioning on in camp mode. Over 7.5 hours at a set temperature of 22°C, including watching a movie, the battery level dropped by about 15%. He notes that an EV produces no exhaust or vibrations, allowing the AC to run while parked, but cautions that features may vary by model.

A resident of Aomori Prefecture, who moved from Chiba, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise 5.5 million yen for a used kei-class camper with '8' number plates to film and document little-known locations across the prefecture over all four seasons. The project includes monthly trips, photo and video reports, and the creation of a public archive. The campaign operates on an all-or-nothing basis.

In Kimitsu, Chiba Prefecture, the RV park 'LOHAS PARK' has opened, featuring 24-hour toilets, AC power, paid waste disposal, and free water. Amenities include a covered dog run (50×6 m), a cafe serving burgers, and an osteopathy clinic. Rates start at 2,200 yen per night, with 11 spaces, check-in from 15:00 to 21:00, and check-out by 11:00. The park is certified by the Japan RV Association and supports stays of up to a week.