Special RV chassis gain popularity in Japan

Tomica, the die-cast miniature car manufacturer, replaces model No.24 Mitsubishi Delica Mini with a new No.24 Camper from July 17, 2026. The model is a cab-conversion type based on a truck, with original Tomica design. It features an opening door to the living area, a deployable side awning, and a removable bicycle from the rear rack. The article also outlines main camper types: cab-conversion, van-conversion, bus-conversion, truck-camper, and kei-camper.

Kentarō Kawabe, former chairman of Line Yahoo, resigned in December 2024 and plans to travel across Japan in a converted camper van. He has founded a startup called KKJJ, focusing on AI-driven development, and argues that the AI era requires 'unlearning' old approaches. Kawabe said his work at the company was 'mostly done' and he wants to start fresh.

Daigo and Ayaka Tsuji, former owners of a popular bakery in Sapporo, will pre-open the campsite "PIMS OTARU" in the Momonai area of Otaru, Hokkaido. The pre-opening is scheduled for August 1, with a full opening on April 15 next year. The campsite will accommodate up to 5 groups per day and features tent sites, forest trails, a barrel sauna, and a trailer tent. The couple sold their bakery business in June last year and spent a year clearing a 10-hectare abandoned plot. Due to delays in container toilet delivery caused by the Middle East situation, the pre-opening was postponed by one month. Bear attacks occurred in the area last year, so local hunters will patrol the campsite.

SEIWA has released magnetic curtains that attach to the metal frames of car windows. Installation takes a few minutes, removal takes one second per curtain. The product leaves no residue after removal and is suitable for camping or short naps in the vehicle. Various sizes are available; buyers should check if the magnet sticks to their car's window frame before purchasing.

Japanese builder Nuts RV released the 'Leak III EVOLITE' based on the Toyota HiAce Super Long. The camper features a household air conditioner and a proprietary 'Evolite' fast charging system that replenishes the battery in 4–8 hours of driving after a night of AC use. The vehicle uses 'Airforia' polyurethane insulation and has FASP multi-function seats that convert into a dinette and a flat bed.

On July 11–12, 2026, the Tokyo Camper Show 2026 was held at Tokyo Big Sight, organized by JRVA. 74 companies displayed 238 motorhomes and travel trailers. Highlights included HiAce-based camper vans (despite ongoing supply shortages), Fiat Ducato-based models, and the first Japanese debut of an EV camper van based on the Kia PV5. Light camper vans based on Suzuki Every and Daihatsu Hijet also drew strong interest.