I took my 8yo daughter camping last month and thought was this was a good opportunity to shed light on the type of camping popular to most people here in Japan.
We left on Sunday, May 28, and camped one night. Daughter had her undokai on Saturday, the following Monday was a makeup holiday so I took a day off from work. The campsite is in Chichibu less than two hrs away by train and bus (our family currently has no need for car in Tokyo).
I try to adhere to one main rule when taking my daughter camping: make it addictive so that she does not hesitate the next time I propose another trip. I'm glad to report that I succeeded this time. She later commented that outdoor dad is more fun than indoor dad.
The place is called Mangan Village
http://www.manganvillage.com
They have cottages, actual RVs and what we selected, tent spots. I chose this place because they allow hammocks and they try to make it easy to for you.
A tour of the place:
The cottage
The RVs
Our tent site #1
There are only 3 tent sites set on a hill. Each site has at least two trees with hooks to hang a hammock, a patio with two tables and a nice view. Tent site #3 is highest up the hill and had three trees. We originally had site #2 but the trees were set too close together to get a good angle and hang. I had to rush back to the front office and begged to switch to the another site... luckily they agreed. The cost for the site for two people during high season was close to ¥5,000 (approx $50) which also includes two free tickets to the hot spring next door.
Most people use their tent and either bring or rent a Brazilian style hammock to relax.
I brought two hammocks with a spreader bar.
Warbonnet Blackbird and the Dream Hammock Sparrow
Dutchware spreader bar attached via double hammock whoppie hooks.
The toilets and sink were nearby.
Opening the door thinking there were going to be a porta potty...
Surprised to see a modern toilet with bidet.
Propane tanks to provide very hot water
Bought some firewood at the front office, beer from the vending machine and prepared dinner.
On the menu: Yakkiniku, corn on the cob, cooked up rice and had smores for dessert.
Ready for bed
I was still up taking some night photos...
... and a time lapse
The next morning my daughter was so comfortable in the hammock, she refused to get out. She was eventually persuaded with the smell of bacon and pancakes to finally get up. We checked out, but much later than planned and then hiked up a nearby mountain with a full load - she did not like that.
Mt. Happu -- https://www.yamareco.com/modules/yam...il-272991.html
Obligatory pano shot
Small shrine at the summit
Now planning the next camp opportunity!
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Originally Posted by NW Lost Boy
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