Munakata signs agreement with Japan RV Association for camper provision during disasters

Japanese company Towa Motors unveiled the Kleinare camper based on the Suzuki Every microvan. It features a sleeping area of 188×136 cm (up to 248 cm with an extra mattress), a 15-liter fridge with freezing down to -20°C, a microwave, a ceramic heater, and an air conditioning system powered by a 200 Ah lithium-ion battery. The price has not been announced yet.

The Midorigaoka Forest Park Campground in Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido, has begun full operations after a large-scale renovation. The site now offers 14 powered auto campsites, free auto sites, dedicated overnight parking for camper vans, rider sites, and bungalows. Sanitary facilities have been upgraded with showers and laundry. The campground is now managed by the operator of the popular Fukuro no Keikoku campground in Abashiri. The season runs through October 31.

Nissan Peeds Field Craft, a direct Nissan dealer in Tokyo, has introduced the Space Camper NB-COOLs based on the Nissan Caravan. The camper van, sized like a minivan (4695×1740×2100 mm), comes standard with a built-in air conditioner, microwave, 18-liter refrigerator, three heated lithium batteries, two 100W solar panels, a 2000W inverter, a Webasto FF heater, and a 15.6-inch monitor with navigation. Powertrain options include gasoline, diesel, and part-time 4WD diesel.

A meeting was held at Nobeoka City Hall on August 24 to discuss challenges and countermeasures related to sleeping in vehicles during disasters. The city plans to create a manual based on the opinions expressed at the meeting.

The article describes a camper van trip through Japan by an outdoor coordinator, a photographer, and their border collie. They visited Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture, staying in a camper with air conditioning powered by solar panels. They enjoyed local cuisine, including inari sushi and mikan rice balls, and explored attractions such as the Dogo Onsen main building and Matsuyama Castle. The trip included a rickshaw ride with the dog, tasting mikan juice from a tap, and cooking tai meshi in the camper. The next day, they crossed the Shimanami Kaido, tried dog SUP on Omishima Island, and visited the Bakata salt factory.

The Japan RV Association certifies RV parks that meet requirements such as ample parking space, 24-hour toilets, and 100V power outlets. This initiative addresses growing concerns over rule violations and poor manners among people sleeping in their cars at roadside stations and other locations. The article highlights two examples: an RV park in Niikappu, Hokkaido, located on hotel grounds with access to a hot spring for 500 yen, and another in Nakagawa, Tochigi, within a campsite surrounded by natural forest where insects can be observed.