Japan sees record number of motorhomes; owner shares pros and cons

The latest episode of the "Camping Car Mania" series features a 2021 Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo. The vehicle has a pop-up roof with a sleeping area and a kitchen, while its overall height is about 2 meters, making it suitable for everyday parking. The owner from Kanagawa Prefecture previously used a Toyota FJ Cruiser for seven years and switched to the Marco Polo for family trips.

Camping Car Co., Ltd. and Hoshino Resorts announced the start of sales for a joint campervan travel plan across the Hokkaido powder belt. The route covers about 200 km in central Hokkaido.

Nissan Motor Sports & Customizing (NMC) has released an updated version of the X-Trail MultiBed, designed for sleeping in the car. The model features new seats and upholstery, and now complies with the latest regulations. Prices start at 5,362,500 yen.

Bodyline, an aftermarket parts brand for the Nissan Caravan, has unveiled the second-generation Light Camper 2. The camper is designed for users who want to carry large items and motorcycles while maintaining living space. It features two side awnings: one for a relaxation area, the other as a sheltered pit for a motorcycle. Inside, a foldable bed kit with height adjustment and multiple storage solutions are installed. Chassis upgrades include stabilizers and shock absorbers with 40-way adjustability.

Ooedo Onsen Monogatari will begin opening official motorhome parks at its hotel parking lots from September 2026. The rate starts at 3,500 yen per night per vehicle, with garbage collection and 24-hour staff on site. Guests can use the hotels' hot springs and buffet restaurants, the latter by advance reservation. Seven locations will open, from Miyagi Prefecture to Wakayama Prefecture.

Kahonan Sabadoru, a Japanese idol and disaster prevention expert, conducted a 72-hour car camping evacuation drill without utilities. She found that a foldable portable toilet greatly improves comfort, especially for women, elderly, and children. She also advises keeping essential supplies like tissues, blankets, and cardboard boxes in the vehicle.