Camping, Not Yet, But I’d Love To Someday

To be honest, I’ve never been camping before.

When I was a child, I often heard stories from my classmates who went camping with their families during summer vacation. They talked about tents, bonfires, rivers, and the smell of grilled meat. I was always fascinated by those stories, but somehow, my family never really did those kinds of outdoor trips. We were more the “hotel and sightseeing” type of travelers.

But recently, maybe because of all the nature-themed posts I keep seeing on Instagram or maybe because I’ve been craving a slower, more grounded experience—I’ve been really wanting to go camping.

I imagine it would be something like this: packing up all the gear into a car, heading out of the city early in the morning with friends or family, driving through lush mountains, and finally arriving at a quiet, green campsite where the only sounds are birds, wind, and laughter.

The part I dream about the most is making BBQ with people I love. I want to try grilling marinated meat over charcoal, roasting vegetables, and maybe even trying that famous “camp toast” I always see on Japanese YouTube channels. I picture sitting around a small fire, sipping hot tea or cocoa as the stars start to appear in the night sky. Maybe someone brings a guitar. Maybe we tell scary stories or just share random memories. No Wi-Fi. No deadlines. Just the present moment.

Why I Want to Go Camping

For me, camping represents freedom and connection. Freedom from the constant noise of the city. Freedom from always having to check messages or emails. And connection—not only with nature, but also with people. I feel like camping is one of those rare chances to really be with others. You can cook together, talk without distractions, and even deal with small problems like sudden rain or a stubborn tent pole as a team.

And also, I think it’s a perfect way to reset mentally. We spend so much time looking at screens that we forget how refreshing it is to just watch clouds float by or hear the sound of a river.

3 Famous Campsites in Japan I Want to Visit Someday

1. Lake Motosu – Yamanashi Prefecture
   Located near Mt. Fuji, Lake Motosu is known for its stunning views, especially during sunrise. It’s part of the Fuji Five Lakes, and many people say it’s one of the most peaceful places to camp in Japan. The lake itself is calm and perfect for canoeing or paddleboarding. Campers can enjoy a full view of Mt. Fuji while cooking over a fire—what more could you ask for?

2. Nakanoshima Camp Village – Shiga Prefecture
   This unique campsite is located on a small island in Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. You need to take a boat to get there, which adds to the adventure. Once you arrive, it’s like entering another world. There are no cars, just nature. It’s ideal for people who want to really disconnect and feel like they’ve escaped everyday life.

3. Okutama Campground – Tokyo
   Yes, you read that right—Tokyo! Located in the westernmost part of the metropolis, Okutama is only about 2 hours by train from the city center, but it feels like a different world. The Hikawa Campground (氷川キャンプ場) is surrounded by forests and lies along the Tama River, which is famous for its clear water and refreshing swimming spots. It’s popular among beginners, families, and couples looking for a quick getaway. You can bring your own gear or rent it there, which is great for people like me who don’t have any equipment yet.

What I’d Bring on My First Camping Trip

Since I’ve never been camping, I’ve been making a mental list of things I’d bring:

• A waterproof tent (obviously!)
• Sleeping bag and a cozy blanket
• Portable BBQ grill
• Marshmallows (must-have!)
• Lantern or headlamp
• Bluetooth speaker (for chill music)
• Folding chairs and table
• My favorite hoodie for chilly nights
• A camera to capture the memories

Also, I’d bring a journal. I think writing while surrounded by nature would feel different—more honest, more peaceful.

My Dream: Autumn Camping in Japan

If I could choose the season for my first camping experience, I think I’d go with autumn. The weather is cool but not too cold, and the changing leaves would make the scenery even more beautiful. I imagine waking up to crisp air and golden trees, making hot coffee over a portable stove, and then going for a quiet morning walk by the river or through the forest.

I think I’d choose Okutama for my first trip. It’s close to home but still feels wild. And it’s beginner-friendly, which gives me a bit of peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Even though I’ve never been camping, just thinking about it makes me smile. It’s a simple but special dream. Hopefully, I’ll make it a reality sometime this year. I want to invite friends, plan our meals, struggle with the tent, laugh a lot, and maybe cry a little from how beautiful the stars are.

So no, I haven’t been camping… yet.

But someday, I will. And I’ll write about it all when I do.