First-time camper van users face unexpected cold in mountains

The Japan RV Association is expanding a network of paid overnight facilities for motorhomes and camper vans. A new site in Omachi City, Nagano Prefecture, offers 10 spaces with electricity, 24-hour restrooms, and access to hot springs. The overnight fee starts at 4,000 yen per vehicle.

The dealer network Mishima Daihatsu has introduced the new Quokka Japandi compact camper van. The interior features local cypress wood and scallop-shell-based paint for humidity and odor control. The model's base price is 3.19 million yen.

The Japan RV Association reports that the number of certified overnight parking facilities for motorhomes and campers, known as RV Parks, has reached 607 nationwide as of March 1, 2026. Thirteen new parks opened in January and February, including locations in Aichi and Ishikawa prefectures.

At the JCCS 2026 show, FLEX displayed four custom Toyota Land Cruisers modified for overnight stays. The vehicles, under the Renoca brand, feature sleeping accommodations for two adults while retaining off-road capability. The models are based on Land Cruiser 60, 80, 100, and Prado 95 with retro styling.

A Japanese couple in their late 40s left their jobs at a major postal service and airline to travel Japan in a camper van. They stopped infertility treatment after five years and now run a YouTube channel about their lifestyle, which has gained over 70,000 subscribers.

A Japanese review recommends electric heating devices for motorhomes and camper vans in winter. The article features portable blankets powered by cigarette lighter sockets and compact heaters. The focus is on the safety of using electric heaters in the confined space of a vehicle.