Japan Tightens Oversight on Overloaded Trailers and Special Vehicles

A 60-something couple traveling Japan in a camper van posted a video of their in-vehicle dinner in Gifu Prefecture. The clip received 645 likes on Instagram. They bought local specialties at a supermarket: "komodofu" (tofu wrapped in straw) and pickled turnip. The couple is touring the country after retirement.

Japanese company RV Trust has unveiled the TR500 C-LH motorhome based on the Toyota Hiace Wagon GL. The model is under 5 meters long and has four berths. Standard equipment includes an air conditioner, FF heater, 300 Ah lithium-ion battery, and 350 W solar panel. Price in Japan starts at 14.3 million yen.

At the Tokyo Outdoor Show 2026 in Makuhari, Chiba, Toyota Mobility Parts displayed the Wan!PiNG ACE bed kit for the Toyota Sienta, designed for sleeping with pets. The kit includes two mattresses (1830×1240 mm) and a frame that requires no body modifications. Interior height is 675 mm, under-bed storage space is up to 460 mm. Bed load capacity is 200 kg. Total kit weight is 45 kg, price is 257,400 yen. Four upholstery colors are available.

The owner of the trailer music bar 'La Peña' (Spanish for 'club') announced a relocation due to the inability to continue operations at the current site after late autumn 2026. The move requires 500,000 yen for trailer transport, 1,200,000 yen for water supply work at two locations, and 300,000 yen for land lease. After relocation, the bar plans to extend opening hours and rent out the space as a daytime rental.

Hairdresser Mika launched a crowdfunding campaign for a trip around Japan in a mini motorhome with her cat Ten-chan. The goal is to raise 10 million yen for vehicle purchase, equipment (car air conditioner, portable power supply) and contingencies. During the trip, she plans to provide haircut services on-site, after obtaining permits from local health authorities. The start is scheduled for November-December 2026.

The town of Hokuei has installed a multi-purpose cottage at the Hojo Auto Campground in Kunisaka, which can be used as temporary housing during disasters. The structure is a relocatable mobile building (container house) and was unveiled to stakeholders on the 14th. It is set to open on the 17th.