Japan clarifies rules for sleeping in vehicles at rest stops

Japanese builder Papabuild unveiled the F-BOX Square camper van based on the Toyota TownAce. The model has a height of 1960 mm, allowing access to multi-storey car parks and car washes. It features a 200 Ah lithium-ion battery, a 12V air conditioner, a microwave, and a TV, all mounted in the upper section to preserve sleeping space.

A couple on a Japan-wide camper van honeymoon amused themselves at the Fukuoka-Yamaguchi prefecture border by repeatedly crossing the line in the Kanmon Tunnel pedestrian walkway. The video garnered over 510,000 views and 12,000 likes on Threads. Users called the couple 'wonderful' and noted it was 'the most peaceful post of the day'.

Red Shore Games will release the early access version of its campground and outdoor shop management simulator on Steam on June 3. Players will develop facilities, hire staff, and deal with trespassers and raccoons. Future updates include hunting, vehicles, a ski slope, and hot springs by fall 2026.

Toyota Customizing & Development introduced the MU trim for the Noah and Voxy minivans on May 12, 2026. The MU version removes the third-row seats, creating a two-row, five-seat layout. An optional front bed board (¥165,000) provides a flat sleeping area measuring 2040 mm long and up to 1270 mm wide, with a load capacity of 150 kg. Prices: Noah MU at ¥4,070,000 and Voxy MU at ¥4,120,600.

The nonprofit organization 'Wellbeing' based in Gifu City has converted a used camper van into a mobile shelter for cats. About 3.6 million yen (approx. $24,000) was raised through crowdfunding. In normal times, the vehicle is used for adoption events; during disasters, it serves as temporary housing for pets and transports food and litter to affected areas. The camper is equipped with solar panels, water supply, and air conditioning, and can accommodate at least eight cats.

Minamiaso Field Hotel opened on May 30 in Minamiaso, Kumamoto Prefecture. It offers 34 units, including hot spring-equipped trailers and dome tents for stargazing. Facilities include a pool and a restaurant serving local cuisine.