Recently, the demand for outdoor activities has been increasing, and I think there are people who are considering trying it for the first time.
However, starting camping from scratch can be cumbersome due to the need for equipment and preparation, which can lead to uncertainty about where to begin.
In this context, are you aware that "glamping" has become popular as one way to enjoy the outdoors?
This time, I would like to introduce glamping, which I highly recommend for outdoor beginners.
Camping and other outdoor activities are becoming increasingly popular as a way to enjoy the outdoors actively without being crowded. On the other hand, it can be cumbersome and costly to gather the necessary equipment, and since all the preparation and cleanup must be done by oneself, beginners in outdoor activities may feel a bit anxious.
For those who feel anxious about outdoor activities, "glamping" is recommended. Glamping is a coined term that combines the English words "Glamorous," meaning attractive or glamorous, and "Camping," referring to camping, representing a new style of enjoying the outdoors with a resort-like feel.
There are various theories about the history of glamping, but one theory suggests that its roots lie in the mobile homes called "yurts" used by Mongolian nomads. Alternatively, it is said to have originated from the European nobility in the mid-19th century, who packed their living essentials and interiors in large trunks from luxury brands and camped lavishly in their colonies in Asia and Africa.
Glamping began to gain recognition overseas around the mid-2000s, and in Japan, it started to spread around 2015 when facilities with the name glamping began to appear.
Glamping is becoming more popular now, but what exactly can you do?
Generally, when camping, you need to prepare everything yourself, including tents, camping gear, and food. Additionally, since you have to handle everything from setup to cleanup, it can feel a bit daunting for beginners.
In contrast, with glamping, it's as easy as just making a reservation at the facility, and everything from food to equipment is included in the plan. Meals can be handled by the staff from preparation to cleanup, while you can also choose to do your own cooking, such as BBQs, allowing for some flexibility and enjoyment of the best parts of camping.
You can choose from various types of accommodations, such as tent-style or cottage-style, depending on the location.
In the tent-style accommodations, compared to regular camping tents, you will find complete facilities like toilets and showers, and large beds comparable to those in hotels, making the interior more comfortable than it appears. Depending on the design of the tent, you may enjoy the morning sun or gaze at the night sky, allowing you to fully enjoy the outdoors.
The cottage-style accommodations are private single-family cottages (villas) that come equipped with kitchens, toilets, and heating and cooling systems, making them more suitable for those who want to enjoy the outdoors in a more casual manner than in tent-style accommodations.
Glamping is often associated with resort facilities or hotels, which means you can use the hotel's large public bath and breakfast is often included, making it convenient without the hassle of preparation. Some facilities even offer pools and athletic activities, allowing for various ways to play beyond just outdoor experiences. For those who are new to the outdoors, support is available for the more challenging aspects, making it easy to experience outdoor activities. If you are usually busy with work or want to enjoy nature easily, trying glamping, which offers the best of both worlds, might be a good idea.
Now, there are various glamping facilities across Japan, but among them, at "Mobility Resort Motegi" in Motegi Town, Tochigi Prefecture, there are various types of glamping available, offering a wide range of ways to enjoy. Mobility Resort Motegi is a leisure facility located in a nature-rich area surrounded by satoyama, where you can enjoy "Motorsports" and a park filled with attractions that you can challenge while having fun.
One of the facilities is a glamping site called "Forest and Starry Sky Camping Village," which includes various types such as "Bell Tent," "Bell Tent Wide," the luxurious "Bell Tent Forest Terrace" for the ultimate elegant experience, and the cottage-style "Log Cabin." Additionally, a new glamping area called "Lotus Tent" opened in July 2021.
In the tent-style bell tent at the Forest Terrace, there is a large tent measuring 14m x 10m, equipped with two semi-double beds, a sofa, a refrigerator, and Wi-Fi. Outside, there are also hammocks and a campfire area. Dinner includes a special BBQ plan featuring a large tomahawk steak, cheese fondue, baked apples, and more, while breakfast can be enjoyed at the restaurant within the Mobility Resort Motegi Hotel. You can also use the "Nozomi Bath," which has an outdoor bath at the Mobility Resort Motegi Hotel.
It might be a good idea to experience outdoor activities at the glamping facilities of Mobility Resort Motegi, which offers various ways to enjoy according to your needs.
With no need for preparation or cleanup, you can enjoy the outdoors easily, just like staying in a hotel.
This is the charm of glamping.