Owner of 9 million yen camper shares pros and cons of ownership

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.

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.

The city of Obana-zawa in Yamagata Prefecture signed an agreement on the 3rd with VANTECH (Saitama Prefecture) to use campers during disasters. Campers, which are easy to move and provide privacy, will be used as rest areas, emergency housing, and for transportation. The company has previously provided support during the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Eleven campers are stationed in Higashine, where the company has a base.

According to the Japan RV Association, the number of motorhomes in the country reached 173,000 in 2025, a record high. A Tokyo resident who bought a used motorhome for 9 million yen in 2023 shared the benefits and drawbacks of ownership. Benefits include the ability to work and play guitar, as well as using the vehicle as a shelter during disasters. Drawbacks include maintenance challenges and role division during trips.