Kanazawa issues guide for forced car sleeping during evacuation

The Yokohama Camper Show 2026 will take place on September 26–27, 2026 at Pacifico Yokohama. The event will feature a wide range of campers from light kei models to luxury full-conversion and bus-conversion vehicles, along with camping gear and outdoor accessories. A talk show by actor Shuji Nakamura, winner of the 14th Camper Award, is scheduled. Tickets: advance electronic 800 yen, same-day electronic 1000 yen, same-day paper 1200 yen.

Japanese manufacturer Annex has launched the Liberty 52 REi, a compact camper measuring 5.23 m in length, shorter than a Toyota Hilux. It accommodates up to eight people, with five sleeping berths, a kitchen, toilet, and underfloor heating. Prices in Japan start at 15.958 million yen (approximately 85,800 euros).

A 60-year-old couple from Hokkaido, who experienced a massive blackout after the 2018 Iburi earthquake, used their retirement money to buy a camper and set off on a Japan-wide trip, planning to finish in 10 years.

A veteran of car sleeping for nearly 20 years says the main stress is not cold or security, but the guilt of wondering if it's okay to park and sleep there. With recent discussions about allowing overnight parking at convenience stores, he notes that paid parking spots eliminate this psychological burden. However, he acknowledges that noise levels vary by location, and not all spots are suitable for rest.

Galvi Plus magazine published a selection of 14 campsites in the Kyushu and Okinawa regions of Japan that allow motorhome parking. The list includes both paid and free sites with details on amenities such as electricity, water supply, and toilets. The article targets travelers looking to use motorhomes during off-peak seasons.

EcoFlow has introduced the WAVE3 portable air conditioner, designed for use in vehicles, tents, and pleasure boats. The unit can lower the temperature by 8 °C or raise it by 9 °C within 15 minutes in spaces up to 6 tatami mats (about 10 m²). With an optional battery, it operates for up to 8 hours. It also includes a dehumidification function.