Overnight stay in a campervan at a Japanese highway rest area: rules and nuances

Japan sees rising demand for trailer-based hotels that bypass strict construction permits. The ‘THE NATURE 八ヶ岳’ hotel in Yamanashi Prefecture, located at 1,050 m altitude, accommodates only two groups per day. According to NOMAD TRAILERS CEO, trailers can be installed with minimal procedures, enabling services in regulated areas like national parks, including a planned site in Okinawa’s Yanbaru National Park.

On TV Asahi's 'Morning Show', the growing popularity of trailer hotels in Japan was discussed. An example was given of a hotel in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, opened two years ago and accommodating only two groups. It was noted that trailer houses can be placed in areas with strict building regulations, as they do not require complex construction permits.

Former TV Asahi employee Toru Tamagawa (63) announced on the May 4 broadcast of 'Hatori Shinichi Morning Show' his intention to buy a trailer house. He plans to rent a plot in rural Hokkaido with sea or mountain views, live there for five years, and then move. Prices for such houses range from 12 to 25 million yen.

Sutchi, a comedian from Yoshimoto Shinkigeki known for his character Suchiko, discussed his affection for the Toyota Hilux Surf. He bought the vehicle after losing interest in the new Lexus RX and uses it for commuting, even sleeping in it on his apartment parking lot. Sutchi says driving the Hilux Surf helps him take a break from creative work and sparks new ideas.

On May 1, 2026, a trailer house for temporary accommodation opened in the Omikage district of Shimizu. The facility features a kitchen, washing machine, bathroom, and bunk beds.

Japanese company Snow Peak has launched the Field Rise rooftop tent with inflatable frames. The tent features entry doors on both sides, all-weather protection, and an awning. Setup is quick due to the air frame. Priced from ¥396,000, it will be available in Japan soon.