New Outbound development video released focusing on van customization

The city of Kumamoto has developed guidelines for safe vehicle habitation during disasters. Authorities are also introducing an online system to track evacuees, aiming to prevent deaths associated with prolonged stays in vehicles.

A Toyota Hiace owner visited the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 to gather ideas for converting a van into a camper. At the event, which featured a record 452 motorhomes, he examined practical solutions for living space layout, hidden storage systems, and zone separation.

A paid auto campground will open in April 2026 in Sengaku Park, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. The facility, located on the floodplain of the Yahagi River, will operate on a reservation-only basis with staff supervision. The overnight fee is set at 4,000 yen per 100 m² site plus 500 yen per person.

Japan Airlines and its subsidiary JAL Airtech have launched a camper van rental service that awards miles based on usage. The 'JAPAN RV TRAVELLER' service started on April 1st, operates from Narita Airport, and aims to capture demand from inbound tourists.

Japanese manufacturers have introduced five new models of compact campers based on kei-cars in 2026. The key trend is the integration of standard 12V air conditioning units and lithium-ion auxiliary batteries to enhance comfort in limited space. Models like the Miniature Cruise Prime on a Suzuki Every base offer up to 300Ah battery capacity and a full kitchen, while the N-VAN MV and SAN light start from a more accessible 2.75 million yen.

Japanese company Koizumi unveiled the detachable Outland Cruiser living module for pickups at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026. The lightweight aluminum module mounts on the truck bed, provides sleeping for four adults, and includes a refrigerator, air conditioning, and a power system. The standard version starts at 2.97 million yen.