The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has published recommendations for staying in vehicles during disasters. The guidance covers measures against heat and cold, prevention of economy-class syndrome, securing water and toilet facilities, choosing safe parking spots, and the importance of registering with local authorities. The agency advises preparing vehicles in advance, including storing water, blankets, and portable toilets, and checking fuel and battery levels.
Campervan, RV & Vanlife News
Actress Minako Tanaka, 58, posted on Instagram that she drove her camper to the Omagari fireworks festival in Akita Prefecture. She shared photos from behind the wheel and said traveling by RV was a new experience for her. Fans responded with comments such as "Cool" and "It suits you well."
Japan RV Association certified 12 new RV parks by end of August, bringing total to over 686. New sites include ocean-view baths, glass workshops, and rural landscapes.
Nagoya Camping Car Fair 2026 AUTUMN runs Nov 7-8 at Aichi Sky Expo. Over 100 models, adult tickets 900 yen, kids under 12 free.
The 18th Kurume Motorhome Fair in Hyakunen Park, Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, will be held on September 12-13, 2026. The event, running since 2018 to support disaster recovery in Kyushu, will feature new and used motorhomes, parts and accessories, and food booths from across Kyushu. Admission and parking are free.
The Ryokusuiko Auto Campground in Nanbu, Tottori Prefecture, reopened on September 4 after being closed since May due to the bankruptcy of its designated manager. The town has shifted to a municipal operation model, outsourcing some services. The site, which attracted 1,435 visitors in fiscal 2025, has received 20 bookings through October.
Organizers announced that the 'Nagoya Camping Car Fair 2026 AUTUMN' will take place on November 7-8, 2026 at Aichi Sky Expo (Chubu International Airport). The fair will showcase the latest motorhomes, campers, and caravans, along with accessories and camping information. Admission is 900 yen for adults (advance purchase), 300 yen for children aged 1 and above, and 600 yen for children aged 2 and above. Online tickets are available until November 8, 16:00.
Four Japanese companies have unveiled new electric vehicles based on the Kia PV5, including models designed for sleeping in the car and camper vans. This marks the first large-scale introduction of electric campers on the PV5 platform in Japan, potentially challenging traditional HiAce-based models.
The South Hills campsite in Kitami, Hokkaido, announced it will close in March 2027. The decision was made due to the aging of the owner's father, 78-year-old Kazuo Shimon, who can no longer assist with maintenance, and the difficulty of running the site alone. Since opening in 2021, the campsite gained popularity for its panoramic city views and night scenery. The owner is seeking a successor to take over the business.
Metal processing company Aizawa will open a new trailer store PLUS SQUARED on September 27, 2026, next to its shop in Okazaki. The store will feature brands PLUS MANIA and FUREFURE, a takeout cafe, and a dog run. An opening event with 17 vendors is planned.
At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, Blow from Sagamihara presented the new camper 'Big Mama Rider' based on the Toyota TownAce. The vehicle is styled after the 1948 Ford F-1 and features 17-inch Boyd wheels. New accessories were also shown, including tail light covers priced at 22,000 yen.
A family of three traveling in a motorhome shared their experience from last year's trip to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, when autumn colors were beginning to appear. They stayed overnight in their camper, prepared meals, and planned their route to avoid crowds. The video shows how they searched for parking near Ogizawa Station and purchased tickets online in advance.
Libertyship Inc. will hold the inaugural AOSHIMA FILM FES on October 17, 2026, at its AOSHIMA PICNIC CLUB outdoor facility in Miyazaki City. The event combines film screenings on a 300-inch screen, camping, art, saunas, and music, with an expected attendance of 500 to 1,000. Day tickets cost 2,200 yen for adults and 550 yen for children. Overnight options range from 6,380 yen for a free tent site to 18,480 yen for glamping.
On September 12, 2026, the Komadeike Campsite in Sakuho, Nagano Prefecture, will host a beer festival organized by Advance Corporation. The event will feature local craft beer, food from regional producers, live music, and mini-games. Organizers encourage attendees to stay overnight at the campsite after the festival to extend their time in the area. Entry is free for those who purchase mini-game tickets (3 for 500 yen), otherwise 300 yen.
A person who has been living in a car for 17 months in Toyama and Ishikawa prefectures recommends autumn foliage spots in Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, including an observation deck overlooking the gassho-zukuri village. The article also mentions local festivals such as the Maya Festival in Gokayama and the Pudding House cafe known for its 'water pudding'. The foliage season in high-altitude areas begins in late September.
The 'Nagine' glamping with two trailers has opened at the 'Amahitotsu' complex on Iki Island. Rates start at 11,000 yen per night, dinner plans from 16,900 yen.
Motor Fan magazine conducted a winter overnight test in a Volvo EX30 Cross Country. The cabin has almost no physical switches, making operation difficult without prior knowledge. Gear changes are made via a steering-column shifter, and engaging 'P' requires pressing a button at the end of the shifter.
Mercedes-Benz will exhibit the V-Class Marco Polo camper at the Caravan Motor Touristik show in Stuttgart. The current lineup includes the Marco Polo for extended travel and the simplified Marco Polo Horizon. In addition to the Mercedes-Benz booth, European camper manufacturers will bring large models based on the Sprinter.
Motor Fan magazine tested sleeping in a Volkswagen Passat. The wagon was found suitable for overnight stays due to its flat floor with folded seats and sufficient cargo length. The Passat combines everyday comfort with camper capability.
ROCK CREEK has announced a Multibed conversion for the Nissan X-Trail, enabling overnight stays in the vehicle. The system transforms the SUV into a camper. Details and photos were released in a press release.