🔥 4WD mini Japan's Unique CamperVans - BE FORWARD Japanese Camper Series.

Luxury Motorhome
43 followers
Mar 29, 2025
Welcome to the next episode of our series on Japan's most practical, comfortable,
and innovative miniature camper vans. This episode is focused on the greatest K,
JDM light truck conversions. The first miniature camping car to attract attention
has been made by a well-established brand from Saitama near Tokyo. The model you are looking at,
the AC made by A to Z, is a one-piece insulated fiberglass body shell
fitted on a light K truck ladder frame. The base vehicle is the Mazda Scrum Truck,
an OEM light truck platform manufactured by Suzuki, which is also sold under the names
of Suzuki Carry, Mitsubishi, Minicab, and Nissan Clipper. A to Z's offering is a four-speed AT
part-time four-wheel drive powered by a 658 cubic centimeters, naturally aspirated,
three-cylinder engine. Classic over cab design means plenty of volume and functional space on
the smallest possible footprint. Exterior dimensions are very compact at 3.7 meters long
by 1.81 meters wide, with an overall height of 2.53 meters. An astonishing turning radius of
just 3.6 meters will please those who want to maneuver with ease into the tightest of streets
and the narrowest of mountain roads. The AC is fitted with camping standard double glazed windows,
insulated doors, and integral blinds with mosquito screens. The layout is split into two zones,
with the 160 by 200 centimeters bed on the upper level and the dinette and kitchen on the lower
level. The lounge also easily converts to a 120 by 200 centimeters berth. Inside is well thought
out and beautifully finished with high quality materials. Lockable overhead storage will please.
Integrated AC and additional roof mounted windows is a must-have for a serious user.
Our model is 181 centimeters tall, so you can get an idea of how generous the interior feels.
In fact, the sense of roominess is even superior to high roof Toyota HiAce-based camper vans
and close to that of European campers. This is a great result. As standard, you will find a
sink with a retractable showerhead, 49 liters fridge with freezer, and 105 ampere hour auxiliary battery.
Aita Z offers upgrades such as independent air heater, side awning, photovoltaic panels, and much
more. A great looking, charming, and practical mini camper van. Another camper worth considering
is the Punito from RV Land. It has a similar concept to the previously mentioned camper,
but with a narrower overhead section and general width. This gives it a more aerodynamic and
attractive appearance, especially when painted in pastel colors. The chassis is based on the
Daihatsu HiJet light truck platform, which is also sold as a Toyota Pixis truck and Subaru Sambar
truck. The latest generation of Toyota-made Alliance trucks are powered by a three-cylinder
658 cubic centimeters, 48 horsepower engine, combined with stepless CVT and part-time
four-wheel drive, providing excellent in light off-road conditions. The insulated fiberglass
camper body is mounted on a ladder frame, much like the previously presented build.
The cabin is equipped with the latest generation of camping standard double glazing,
complete with blinds and mosquito screens. Interestingly, the door window can also be
opened, which is an unusual feature. Inside, you'll find a spacious two-zone layout with an
over-cab bed and an L-shaped lounge on the lower level. There are plenty of storage compartments
inside, including a good-sized one under the seat, which is also accessible from the outside.
The kitchenette comes with a sink and a microwave as standard, as well as a drawer-type compressor
fridge. The electrical system is powered by a mobile battery bank with a built-in inverter.
The design is well-finished, with an overall high-quality feel. Although the interior is
not as spacious and functional as the A2Z-A's Z, mostly due to the 10 centimeters narrower body.
Introducing the Beloco by FieldLife, a camping car that fits within the dimensions of the
Japanese K-Car type. Despite being only 3.4 meters long, 1.48 meters wide, and 1.98 meters high,
the Beloco provides reasonable living space for up to four occupants. To maximize space,
the Beloco has a pop-up roof. The cabin is constructed from insulated fiberglass panels,
while the tent fabric is designed to withstand up to 1,000 millimeters of water pressure,
ensuring that you stay dry in normal rain conditions.
All windows are double-glazed camping standard and come with integrated blinds and insect screens.
Storage and water tanks are easily accessible from the outside of the car.
For better air circulation, there's a small wall opening with built-in fans.
Inside, you'll find a 12V-powered AC, as well as a Webasto air heater. The kitchenette features
a sink and a fold-down tap, while a drawer-type compressor fridge is located under the seat.
With the pop-up roof open, you will get a large bed area that can be used throughout most of the
year, except in freezing conditions. However, be aware that headroom is limited when the roof is
down. The next pop-up-style camper van is the KAI from Azimax. This tiny, stylish gray
recreational vehicle also meets the requirements of a K-car in terms of maximum dimensions.
The base vehicle is the Suzuki Carry Truck, although it can also be built on the Daihatsu
platform. This one is equipped with a two-wheel drive rear drive and a four-speed automatic
transmission. Its camping body is a one-piece fiber-reinforced plastic insulated shell designed
to accommodate two adults accompanied by two children. The living area is fitted with a rather
dated type of windows. Two of these are of the sliding type, not the best concept when it comes
to use in rainy conditions. Likewise, the pop-up roof, although the fabric is waterproof to a
Once the pop-up is up, the large bed is available, while the living space can also be converted to a
sleeping layout with just a few moves. There is also a sink and a couple of lockable compartments.
In addition, you will find a designated space to fit a portable cooler.
The last of our picks for campers based on unique Japanese light trucks
is the Tent Mushi from Kagoshima-based van shop Mikami. This particular camper has some unique
features that draw our attention. It is built on a Daihatsu platform as a two-wheel drive with CVT.
Externally, it boasts fine details and huge double glazed camping windows.
Perhaps the most attractive design feature is the massive tailgate.
A lovely way to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying being inside.
Layout is designed for three adults. An upper bed, accessible when the pop-up is raised,
sleeps two, while the lower level has a lounge area that can easily be converted into a sleeping area.
In addition to the sink, 18-liter fridge, camping standard 12-volt AC, photovoltaic,
and extensive battery pack, Tent Mushi can be delivered with a parking air heater,
TV and many other useful extras. If you haven't already seen other parts of our series on the
top Japanese camper vans, check out the links below. If you enjoyed this video,
please like, share, and leave a comment. Happy camping!
