Japan selects 18 roadside stations for car sleeping trips

A member of the tetu channel embarked on a spontaneous trip in a DIY camper van converted from a light truck, with only 5,000 yen in hand. The route went from Kumamoto to Kagoshima, where she visited several fishing ports, had lunch at a local restaurant, and slept in the vehicle. Despite catching no fish, she enjoyed hot springs and a homemade dinner.

IPF has introduced an updated Rear Window Guard for the Suzuki Jimny (JB64/JB74), now also compatible with the Nomad variant. The steel panel protects the rear glass from cargo impact, allows mounting accessories via M8 eye nuts, and provides privacy for overnight stays. Installation is bolt-on with no body modifications, and it supports digital rearview mirrors and dashcams.

Flott Mobile, based in Nagano Prefecture and founded in 2010, specializes in camper vans built on the Toyota Town Ace platform. Its 'Spielen' model has been in production since 2014, with an average output of about four units per month and a delivery lead time of roughly two years. In 2024, the company moved production to a new facility near the Obuse Smart Interchange on the Joshinetsu Expressway. The latest version can be equipped with a Denso 'Can Cool' vehicle-specific air conditioner, which runs on 24V DC and consumes 300W.

Yamagata Asato, director of the 'Car Travel Club,' provided guidance on sleeping in your car, a trend that has gained traction over the past five years. He emphasized the importance of vehicle selection, preparing a comfortable sleeping area, using designated RV parks, and adhering to safety rules like avoiding idling and proper fire handling.

Blogger Mayayan, host of the YouTube channel MAYAYAN CAMP, demonstrated 10 improvements made to her camper van HAPPY1+City. Modifications include installing a fan, mirror, organizing storage in the kitchen and entrance area, and extending the faucet for easier dishwashing. The final change was adding a microwave oven. The video was filmed at an RV park attached to a roadside station in Chiba Prefecture.

A user with over 7 years of vanlife experience recommends three portable air conditioner models for RVs, campers, and caravans: EcoFlow WAVE 3, BougeRV PC35 1kW, and EENOUR Xspot GARPA600. The units vary in power, size, and price.