Vehicle type & equipment
In Japan, motorhomes and campervans are called Camping-car. Camping-cars come in various types based on their shape and living space differences. I will explain the type of car.
Cab conversion(Motorhome)
This is a popular model of camping car in Japan. The living space is spacious, allowing for a comfortable stay. Some models are equipped with room air conditioning, making them recommended for summer use.Sleeps 5-6 people.
Advantages
- Spacious and high-ceilinged living area.
- Multiple beds available.
- Models with a microwave and room air conditioning are also offered.
Disadvantages
- Caution is required while driving due to its large size.
- Some narrow parking spaces may be inaccessible.
Van Conversion(Campervan)
This van-type vehicle is equipped with camping amenities, providing a comfortable travel experience. It includes a refrigerator, kitchen, and power supply, making it suitable for trips with two adults, a couple, or a family with small children.
Advantages
- Well-equipped for comfort inside the vehicle.
- Easy to drive, being a van-type automobile.
Disadvantages
- Smaller in comparison to a cab conversion.
- Limited availability of rental outlets.
Light camper
This is a van-type vehicle equipped with a bed. It does not have a kitchen or refrigerator and is designed for 1 to 2 people for travel.
Advantages
- Many are the same size as regular passenger cars, making them easy to drive.
- Affordable rental rates.
- Good fuel efficiency.
Disadvantages
- Lack of amenities for relaxing or cooking inside the vehicle.
- Limited availability of rental vehicles.
Kei camper
This is a camping car based on a kei car. Its small size makes it popular. sleeps 1-2 people.
Advantages
- Compact and easy to drive
- Easy to park
- Affordable rental rates
- Good fuel efficiency
Disadvantages
- Interior space is limited
- Difficulty in storing luggage
- Comfort is restricted
RV equipment
Cab conversion（Motorhome) is fully equipped, so you can spend a comfortable time inside the vehicle.
Most cars come with a refrigerator, heater, and rearview camera.
The FF heater is a very convenient heating device for spending time inside your vehicle when it's cold.
Many Cab conversions（Motorhomes) also carry microwave ovens. Convenience stores sell many foods that can be cooked in a microwave, so having a microwave is convenient.
Some Cab conversions（Motorhomes) come with a cooler that operates without the engine being turned on. Some campers don't have it, so please check carefully. July to September is the hot season. For a comfortable trip, we recommend a camper with an air conditioner.
"Some Cab conversions（Motorhomes) come equipped with air conditioners that operate even without the engine running. However, not all campers have this feature, so please check carefully. The period from July to September is a hot season. For a comfortable journey, we recommend campers with air conditioners."
If you are using the air conditioner, you will need a 100V external power source. To connect to an external power source, you can use RV parks or campsites with available power supplies.
For longer trips, it's advisable to connect to an RV park or a campsite with power facilities approximately every three days to recharge the auxiliary battery. These facilities also provide services such as water supply and waste disposal.
The kitchen is equipped with a gas stove and a sink. However, please refrain from cooking dishes that produce strong odors or splattering oil in the kitchen.
Some Cab conversions（Motorhomes) come with a toilet, while others do not, so please check at the store. Even if the camper does not have a toilet, there are many free toilets available at convenience stores, roadside stations, and other locations. However, when using a convenience store's toilet, please make a purchase at that store.
Cab conversions（Motorhomes) with showers are very rare. However, in Japan, it's perfectly fine to have a camper without a shower. There are plenty of hot spring facilities that you can use. Some campsites have shower facilities, and a few RV parks also offer showers. Moreover, many RV parks are located near hot spring facilities.
The Light Camper has a lower rental fee, but some vehicles come with minimal equipment, such as only a bed. Some rental shops may provide portable power sources, so please inquire at the store for details.