Japanese cities sign agreements with RV association for camper use in disasters

Sanjo Mitsubishi Motors Sales and Kato Motor from Niigata Prefecture have introduced the NOCTI camper based on the Mitsubishi Delica D:5. The vehicle features the S-AWC all-wheel-drive system and a 2.2-liter diesel engine, offering high off-road capability. Its dimensions (4800×1815×1875 mm) allow parking in standard garages. The camper includes a 12-volt cooler.

A Japanese couple converted a Suzuki Every kei van into a camper and spent 1.5 years traveling around Japan. They chose a 2012 high-roof model for under 500,000 yen, painted it green, and furnished the interior in beige, keeping costs low. Despite the small space, they found it comfortable for two people.

Japanese builder Direct Cars has unveiled the soup, a light camper based on the Toyota TownAce Van GL. Prices start at 4.48 million yen for the 2WD version and 4.78 million yen for the 4WD. The camper features split second-row seats that can be folded to carry long items, full interior trim, a portable battery, LED spotlights, and an external shower. It seats four and is classified under Japan's 8-number plate category.

The Japan RV Association continues to expand its network of paid overnight parking facilities for car campers. The new RV Park Osasa is located at a pasture at an altitude of 1,300 meters in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. The park operates from mid-April to late October, accommodates 12 vehicles, and costs from 3,900 yen per night. Amenities include 24-hour toilets, electricity, and water, but trash must be taken away. Dairy products made from Brown Swiss cow milk are sold on site.

Japanese tuning company DAMD has built a compact sleeper camper based on the Daihatsu Atrai chassis. Despite its small size, the vehicle is fully equipped for camping, offering an alternative for those who cannot afford a full-size motorhome.

Royal Japan, a manufacturer and seller of trailers and containers, plans to open an unmanned trailer hotel with 18 rooms near JR Otaru Chikko Station on National Route 5 in September. This will be the company's second hotel, following the success of its unmanned hotel in Inaho, and aims to accommodate increasing tourists and construction workers.