Is Camping Popular in Japan? The evolution of the camping trend in Japan

6 Jun

Once regarded as a niche hobby for a few enthusiasts, camping has now firmly established itself as a mainstream leisure activity in Japan. A boom in outdoor pursuits has transformed camping into one of Japan's defining cultural activities. Today, camping in Japan is popular for family and group outings as well as solo adventures. There has been a notable increase in the number of campsites and significant advancements in camping gear, including some unique products from Japan's pioneering outdoor brands.

The growth of Japanese outdoor activities over time

In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, many survivors were forced to live in tents until temporary housing was available. Camping gear was under the spotlight as essential survival equipment. But by 2017 the allure of freedom, solitude, outdoor cooking and campfires ignited a solo camping boom. This trend was partly spurred by celebrities sharing their camping stories on YouTube. It was also helped by the popularity of the anime series ‘Yuru Camp’ (Laid-Back Camp), which depicted high school girls enjoying camping.

The Covid-19 pandemic further accelerated the camping boom as it offered a much needed form of leisure that avoided crowded spaces. Since then, camping has established itself as a popular activity all year-round, but especially from autumn to winter when there are fewer insects and the joys of campfires and outdoor cooking can be fully appreciated.

Glamping and ‘veranping’ or balcony camping, are trending in the post-covid era, helped by their Instagram-worthy appeal. This shift has integrated camping into everyday lifestyles for many Japanese people and the market has grown to meet the need. The number of campsites listed on popular booking website Nappu, went from 186 in 2019-2020, to 278 in 2020-2021, and 300 campsites in 2021-2022. Booking a campsite has become easier and a variety of options have been introduced with many new campsites offering targeted facilities.

Visit a new generation of campsites in Japan

Newer campsites in Japan often have enhanced facilities and modern amenities, making camping a more comfortable experience. The best Japanese campsites provide clean restrooms, showers, communal kitchens, Wi-Fi, electricity hook-ups and laundry facilities. They are also designed to be accessible to people of all ages and abilities, featuring wheelchair-accessible paths and facilities too.

Glamping options are another notable feature of these newer sites. Luxurious accommodation such as fully furnished tents, yurts and cabins offer a hassle-free camping experience. These come with comfortable beds and stylish interiors, attracting those who wish to enjoy nature without compromising on comfort.

Family-friendly environments are a priority for some campers, with many campsites including playgrounds, nature trails and organised activities for children. Enhanced safety measures, such as secure perimeters and well-lit areas, ensure a safe environment for families to enjoy.

Eco-friendly initiatives on campsites are common. Many focus on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and practices like solar-powered facilities, recycling programs and composting toilets. Some also offer educational programs for guests on environmental conservation.

Unique and thematic experiences are common, with some campsites designed around specific themes, such as traditional Japanese culture or particular natural environments. Activity-focused sites provide specialised experiences like yoga retreats, stargazing events and outdoor adventure sports, catering to a range of interests and hobbies.

By incorporating these modern features, newer campsites in Japan are attracting a broader range of visitors, from seasoned campers to luxury seekers, families and environmentally conscious travellers.

Japanese camping brands

Japanese camping gear has evolved to cater to all ages and interests. There is now a range of equipment from simple gear for families who are new campers to stylish products appealing specifically to women. The rise of garage brands - small-scale ventures selling through e-commerce sites, reflects this diversity. With the growth of social media, user feedback has become integral to product development, allowing these brands to create items in small batches based on user input.

Notably, several Japanese outdoor brands have made a mark internationally. Brands like Snow Peak from Niigata, known for its chic tents, Logos with its stylish camping gear, and Montbell’s functional beauty and efficient designs, exemplify Japan’s innovative approach to outdoor products.

1. Snow Peak

Innovative Design: Snow Peak is renowned for its high-quality, innovative camping gear that combines functionality with aesthetics. Their products are designed to be durable, versatile and stylish, appealing to both experienced campers and those who enjoy glamping.
Sustainability: The brand places a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and environmentally friendly materials, which resonates with eco-conscious consumers.
Community Engagement: Snow Peak actively engages with its community through events and workshops, fostering a strong sense of belonging among its customers. Their flagship stores often include camping sites where customers can test gear and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Logos

Family-Friendly Designs: Logos focuses on creating camping gear that is easy to use, especially for families and casual campers. Their products are designed to be practical and simple, making camping accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Stylish and Fun: Bright, colourful designs and creative concepts appeal to younger campers and those looking for gear that stands out. Their products often feature playful and innovative designs that enhance the camping experience.
Versatile Product Range: Logos offers a wide range of camping gear, from tents and sleeping bags to outdoor furniture and cooking equipment. This variety allows them to cater to diverse customer needs, whether for a weekend getaway or a more extensive outdoor adventure.

3. Montbell

Functionality and Performance: Montbell is celebrated for its highly functional and lightweight gear, making it a favourite among serious outdoor adventurers. Their products are designed to perform well in various conditions, from mountain climbing to hiking and camping.
Affordability: Despite the high quality, Montbell’s products are reasonably priced, offering great value for money. This makes high-performance outdoor gear accessible to a broader audience.
Technological Innovation: Montbell is known for incorporating advanced materials and technologies into their gear, such as moisture-wicking fabrics and ultra-lightweight insulation. This commitment to innovation ensures their products continue to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts.

These three brands exemplify the strengths of Japanese camping gear: innovation, functionality and a keen understanding of their users’ needs. Their popularity stems from their ability to blend high performance with thoughtful design, making outdoor adventures more enjoyable for everyone. But some brands have gone a step further, providing not just camping equipment for the Japanese outdoors, but also developing campsites and outdoor experiences.

4. Muji Campsite

Muji extends its minimalist and nature-focused philosophy by providing camping experiences at its Muji Campsite in Tsunan.

Location: Situated in Tsunan, Niigata Prefecture, this campsite is surrounded by stunning mountains and lush forests, offering a serene and picturesque environment.
Facilities: The campsite provides a variety of accommodation, from traditional tent sites to Muji-designed cabins, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Facilities include clean restrooms, showers and a communal kitchen.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and stargazing. The campsite also hosts workshops and events focused on nature and sustainability, aligning with Muji’s eco-friendly ethos.

Camping is big in Japan!

Japan's camping culture has evolved from a niche pastime into a mainstream leisure activity, embedded in the nation’s lifestyle. Historical circumstances, societal trends and a growing appreciation for the outdoors has fueled this transformation. The diversity in camping styles - from family outings and solo adventures to glamping - reflects the adaptability and appeal of this cultural phenomenon. Pioneering Japanese brands like Snow Peak, Logos, Montbell and Muji have set new standards in innovation, functionality and design. Their commitment to sustainability and community engagement ensures that the future of camping in Japan remains bright and inclusive. Whether you're an experienced adventurer or a newcomer to the outdoors, Japan's camping experiences offer something for everyone, inviting you to explore nature with simplicity and style.

As the market continues to develop and innovate, there are great opportunities for companies seeking to develop their businesses in outdoor pursuits. Pointblank Promotions can provide tailored support to companies wishing to expand into the Japanese market. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your needs using the enquiries link below.

This article was created in partnership with ChatGPT and humans from Pointblank.

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