Lawson, a prominent Japanese convenience store chain, has seen a significant uptick in the usage rates of its "car-camping" or "overnight parking" services. As the name suggests, customers are permitted to use the parking lots of Lawson stores to spend the night in their vehicles. This initiative is an innovative response to the growing popularity of car-camping in Japan, offering a safe and convenient location for overnight stays in urban areas across the country.

In Japan, car-camping, also known as "vehicle dwelling", has become increasingly popular as a cost-saving measure and a flexible lifestyle choice. Lawson's initiative addresses this trend by providing convenient, safe overnight parking spaces. It's significant as it reflects a shift in Japanese retail and lifestyle habits. The interest reflects an ongoing conversation in Japan about the need for flexible, unconventional housing alternatives in the face of high living costs.

In the US or EU, large retail or supermarket chains have similar policies, allowing overnight motor home or caravan parking. However, these are typically found in more rural or suburban areas, not in urban zones. Furthermore, it is more socially accepted for long distance travelers, whereas in Japan, it is used by a combination of travelers, commuters and people facing high living costs.