Direct Cars unveiled the new KATANA mini compact camper van at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026. The model is based on the Daihatsu Hijet mini truck and features an electric step, a fold-out bed, and an air conditioning system.

Direct Cars will unveil its first lightweight travel trailer, the Nomadoa, at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari Messe. The compact model is designed for towing on narrow roads and features a pop-up roof, fold-out beds, a kitchen, and an optional household air conditioning unit.

Japanese manufacturer Direct Cars will unveil the new compact camper van PLAT, based on a Hijet Truck. Registered as a standard passenger vehicle, the model accommodates four people and features a fold-down bed, kitchenette, and a large rear hatch. The world premiere and sales launch will take place at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari Messe from January 30 to February 2.

Japanese company RV Land will debut its new LAND HOME DUCATO motorhome based on the FIAT DUCATO. The premiere is scheduled for the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 at Makuhari Messe from January 30 to February 2. Designed for small groups, the model features electric massage chairs and a high-quality interior inspired by European vehicles.

A couple living in a motorhome were unable to return home due to a severe blizzard in Hokkaido on January 24, 2026. Visibility dropped to one meter, with temperatures at -15°C. They were forced to spend the night in their vehicle at their workplace parking lot.

White House Camper will unveil a vehicle air conditioner that operates with the engine off at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026, opening January 30. The 1800W unit, co-developed with a Japanese climate equipment maker, addresses overheating during sleep in motorhomes. It reduces noise and eliminates exhaust, allowing for nighttime use without disturbing others.

Demand is growing in Japan for compact motorhomes under 5 meters in length and about 2 meters wide. Models like the Expedition Striker and Jollybee can be parked in standard spaces and driven with a regular license. They are also marketed as potential shelters for natural disasters.

Japanese company RV Land has announced a special edition of its Lino Premium motorhome featuring interior furniture from the brand blocco. The model will debut at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari starting January 30. The main upgrade involves replacing standard seats with sofas designed with ergonomics in mind to enhance comfort in the living area.

Japanese company LAC Holdings will unveil two electric motorhome concepts based on the Kia PV5 at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari. The vehicles utilize the vehicle's 71.2 kWh battery, eliminating the need for a separate leisure battery to power air conditioning and household appliances overnight. The debut is scheduled for January 30 to February 2.

Toy Factory has become the first motorhome manufacturer authorized to display the «JAXA LABEL» on its vehicle bodies. The label certifies the use of the GAINA insulation coating, which utilizes patented technology from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The 0.8 mm coating provides thermal resistance equivalent to 100 mm of glass wool. The technology will be demonstrated at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari from January 30 to February 2.

Japanese company Direct Cars has introduced a camper van based on the updated Mitsubishi Delica D:5 minivan. The model, named Delica D:5 Active Camper Logos Edition, was showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. It is a van conversion that retains the 4WD capability and exterior of the base vehicle but features an interior outfitted for camping.

The Delica D:5 Active Camper Logos Edition camper van was presented at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. The model is a collaboration with the outdoor gear brand Logos and retains the 4WD capability of the base minivan. The interior is outfitted for comfortable living, positioning the van as suitable for those new to road trips.

The Solana Smart INN Fuji-Gotemba hotel opened on January 26, 2026. The property consists of 11 travel trailer units, located two minutes from the Gotemba Interchange. Guests have access to a rooftop space with panoramic views of Mount Fuji, offering complimentary snacks and drinks.

Japanese manufacturer Direct Cars has unveiled the new compact camper van PLAT at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026. The model is based on the Daihatsu Hijet light truck, is registered as a standard vehicle, and can accommodate up to four people. The interior features a modular magnetic kitchen wall and various slide-out elements for space optimization.

Japanese company RV Land has collaborated with sofa brand blocco to create a special edition of the Lino Premium camper van. The Lino Premium blocco Edition features sofas from the Hokkaido-based brand and will debut at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari Messe from January 30, 2026.

Japanese motorhome manufacturer Lekvy has announced the new 'Lekvy Plus LIV'N' model based on the Nissan Caravan. Presented on January 30, 2026 at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026, it offers up to 270 customization options starting at 6.6 million yen. The 'moving living room' concept focuses on balancing price and personalization.

Japanese motorhome manufacturer TOY-FACTORY starts pre-orders for the Clesana X1 mobile toilet, which operates without water or chemicals. The model will debut at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari from January 30. The device uses a film-sealing technology to hygienically encapsulate waste, a method previously utilized in medical settings and disaster relief.

Direct Cars will unveil the new compact camper van KATANAmini at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari Messe. Based on the Daihatsu Hijet Truck, the model features compact dimensions, a fold-down bed, and an electric step. The interior layout includes a U-shaped sofa and a fold-out table.

The Japanese platform Carstay has published its 2025 booking rankings for motorhome rentals and sharing. Total booking time by inbound tourists exceeded 10,000 hours, a 1.7-fold increase from the previous year. Motorhome popularity surged during festivals and long holidays, with owners of the top 10 vehicles reducing annual maintenance costs by approximately 1.5 million yen.

Japanese company Work Vox introduced the new modular Tac-Luc hanging storage system at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026. The system features high compatibility with off-the-shelf parts and uses a bolt-on structure that doesn't interfere with vehicle maintenance. It is initially available for six microvan models, including the Suzuki Every and Daihatsu Hijet Cargo.

Japanese company White House Camper has developed a vehicle air conditioner that operates with the engine off. The product will be unveiled at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari from January 30 to February 2. The unit features a quiet design, auto swing, and automatic drying function, and is fully manufactured in Japan.

Direct Cars has unveiled the new PLAT camper van, based on the Daihatsu Hijet Truck. The model, registered as a passenger vehicle, will have its world premiere at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari Messe starting January 30. The PLAT offers a balance of maneuverability and interior space, featuring an electric side awning and a modular magnetic kitchen wall.

Japanese firm Lin'Ei has introduced the Bakanches camper van. With dimensions of 4695 mm in length and 1695 mm in width, it is similar to a minivan, but its high roof (2240 mm) allows occupants to stand upright inside. The model offers gasoline and diesel engines, 2WD or 4WD drivetrains, and interior layouts accommodating up to 8 passengers.

KYB presented the Fishing Camper, a camper van developed with outdoor brand Snow Peak, at the 'Fishing Festival 2026' in Yokohama. Based on a Fiat Ducato L3H2, the vehicle features custom shock absorbers and an interior inspired by Snow Peak's mobile 'JYUBAKO' house. The concept is a mobile base camp for fishing trips, integrating dedicated storage and drying areas for gear.

A travel expert recommends five RV parks in the Kanto region suitable for comfortable winter stays. The selection is based on three factors: a warm local climate, well-developed facilities, and the availability of warming local food such as hot nabemono dishes.

Japanese actor and TV personality Sugiyama Takuya is sharing his life in a motorhome on social media, drawing attention to the lifestyle. His vehicle is a CREA model built on a Toyota Camroad chassis, purchased in 2022. The 5.19-meter motorhome accommodates 7 passengers and 6 sleepers, featuring full amenities for off-grid living.

Japanese company Direct Cars has introduced the new compact camper van PLAT, based on the Hijet Truck. The model will have its world premiere at the Japan Camping Car Show 2026 in Makuhari on January 30. Its key feature is registration as a standard passenger car (8-number plate), which provides greater stability and interior space despite its compact size.

A camper van owner modified a Honda N-BOX to fish from inside the vehicle during winter. The setup blocked wind and used a ceramic heater for comfort, allowing fishing without braving the cold. The catch was later cooked on an induction cooktop inside the van.

Toyota presented the RV-2 concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1972. It was a two-door shooting brake with rear panels that opened to create a habitable space for four adults. The project did not enter production following the 1973 oil crisis.

The Japan RV Association is expanding a network of paid parks for motorhomes to provide safe overnight stays. The new facility in Saga Prefecture offers seven spaces, electricity, water, and access to a Segway park. The overnight fee starts at 3,000 yen.