JP STAR launches truck camper with living cabin

In Japan, a Toyota HiAce owner installed an audio system with 5 amplifiers and a subwoofer, along with a foldable bed, in the cargo area. The project was completed at AV Kansai Sakai. The U-shaped frame serves as both a bed base and mounting platform for audio components. Acrylic panels and lighting were used for finishing.

The town of Nanbu announced plans to reopen the closed Fureai Hiroba Ryokusuiko auto campsite by the autumn peak season. The previous designated manager, Smile Cube, had its contract canceled. The municipality now intends to operate the site directly.

ALFLEX has announced a new variant of its popular ELEMENT series of camper vans. The model will debut on June 6, 2026 at the Kansai Camping Car Festival 2026 in Kobe, followed by a showing on June 13 at Motor Camp Expo 2026 in Osaka. Key features include a 1.7×1.6 m bunk bed, a pull-out kitchen with a two-burner stove and sink, and a modular system of trim and accessories that lets buyers choose colors and equipment. The MOBIFRAME seats meet international safety standards, include ISOFIX child seat anchors, and convert into a bed in about 20 seconds.

Market Research Center has released a report on the global hybrid camper market. The market is projected to grow from $24.14 billion in 2025 to $30.62 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 3.5%. The report covers segments by capacity (4, 6, 8, 10 persons), regions, and key manufacturers including Toyota, Volkswagen Group, Forest River, and Jayco.

The creator of YouTube channel 'Umiko’s Journey' posted a video featuring an overnight stay in a self-converted light van at a beachside campsite in Kamogawa, Chiba Prefecture. She cooked dinner using a rice cooker and fished in tide pools with a ¥700 mini rod from Daiso combined with a ¥500 reel. After dinner, she visited a local hot spring resort.

The Japan RV Association (JRVA) certified 10 new overnight parking spots in May 2026. The total number of RV Parks nationwide reached 644 as of June 1.