Camping opens at Yoshinogari ruins, expected to boost visitor numbers

Ogusho has introduced a model based on the Nissan Caravan Grand Premium GX featuring a 60% matte black paint finish that provides a semi-gloss surface. The vehicle includes a dark brown woodgrain interior, a convertible bed system, herringbone-pattern flooring, and Ohlins DFV shock absorbers. The five-seat layout is retained.

From October 9, Lawson will add RV parking facilities at nine stores in Gifu and Mie prefectures. The initiative, developed with Glory and the Japan RV Association, will bring the total number of participating stores to 37. The company plans further expansion in Kyushu, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shikoku and Miyagi, aiming to operate RV parking at approximately 70 stores by the end of fiscal 2026.

Japanese web magazine DRIMO published a selection of four roadside stations (michi-no-eki) in Wakayama Prefecture where visitors can combine overnight stays in their vehicles with hot spring bathing. The availability of overnight parking was confirmed by phone as of November 11, 2025. The list includes Okutoro roadside station in Kitayama Village, which has parking for 82 standard and 7 large vehicles, 24-hour toilets, and the Yamano-Yado hot spring open from 15:00 to 20:00, with admission at 700 yen for adults and 500 yen for children aged 3 to 12. The publication notes that overnight stays are intended for short rest and sleep only; setting up tables and chairs, using open flames, and leaving trash behind are prohibited.

Yuka Suzuki, a former AKB48 member and travel YouTuber with over 600,000 subscribers, converted a Nissan NV100 Clipper commercial van into a camper. The van, which her father was going to dispose of, was given to her. The conversion included a bed, monitor, sink, acrylic windows with wooden frames, LED lighting, a refrigerator, and underfloor heating. Suzuki also obtained a manual transmission license in 2024 to drive a wider range of vehicles.

Toyota has unveiled the Tacozilla project, a camper based on the Tacoma TRD Sport pickup with a manual transmission, inspired by Chinook models of the 1970s–80s. The premiere is planned for the SEMA Show. The preliminary layout includes a sleeping area above the cab, a small kitchen, a dining area and a bathroom; the model will be more compact than traditional American motorhomes. The project is at the prototype stage. Chinook RV was founded in 1938, closed in 2005, revived in 2013 and produces motorhomes based on Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit, as well as travel trailers.

The blog 'Chiyotan' published an account of a first-ever camping trip at the Chiuichihama Auto Campground on Lake Biwa in Takashima, Shiga Prefecture. The trip took place on the first day of Silver Week; the group bought hand-cut Omi beef steak at a long-established shop en route. At the site, they pitched a DOD 'Itsuka no Tarp' and a tent, adjusting the tarp due to proximity to the neighbouring plot and struggling to fit the flysheet. The post mentions lake views, swimming and SUP by other campers, and a wish to return about once a month.