Are you looking for a fun way to zip around Tokyo while taking in the sights? How about go-karting? Contrary to popular belief, street go-karting is not banned in Tokyo and is open for business. Unlike most go-karting experiences, participants don’t drive around a small race track. Instead, drivers don fun costumes and take to the Japanese streets in road-ready go-karts. This unique and fun experience allows you to live out your biggest fantasy while enjoying high-speed fun. See Tokyo, drive fast, and dream big.

What is Street Go-Karting?

Street go-karting is a unique experience that allows participants to drive small motorized go-karts on designated streets of Tokyo while taking in city life. Traditional go-karting is typically only available on closed tracks, where participants race each other or just drive for fun. Street go-karting offers far more freedom, as participants can navigate city streets.

Why Choose Go-Karting in Tokyo?

Tokyo is not only one of the top travel destinations, but it is the second largest metropolis in the world. So for most visitors, navigating the city quickly and efficiently is key. Go-karting allows visitors to explore Tokyo’s main attractions and areas, including Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Akihabara, and Ginza all in one go. Each route offers a diverse slice of Tokyo’s culture and architecture, such as Asakusa traditional temples or the modern shopping centers in Ginza.

Tokyo go-karting also allows participants to embrace their silly and fun-loving side. Animal and fantasy costumes are available to wear, adding a bit of whimsy and imagination to the experience.

How to Get Started

Step One: Making a Reservation

Before embarking on your street go-karting adventure, you will need to make a reservation. If you are planning to travel during peak season, it is advisable to book your slot well in advance. Typically reservations can be booked online or by phone. You will need to provide your personal information (name, contact number, etc.) and your preferred route and time slot.

Step Two: Confirming Necessary Documents

Confirm you have the necessary documents before your arrival. You will be required to have a valid driver’s license. A Japanese driver’s license is acceptable, but for foreign visitors, you will be required to have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm your country’s driving agreements with Japan to ensure your documentation is in order.

Step Three: Attending the Safety Briefing

A safety briefing is mandatory before taking to the streets in your go-kart. Participants will be provided instructions on how to operate the go-kart, navigate Tokyo streets, and stay safe. Participants will be required to follow Japanese traffic laws and adhere to age restrictions.

Step Four: Selecting Your Costume

It’s time to select your costume! Participants have the option to choose a fun costume before whizzing through the streets. Animals, mythical creatures, traditional Japanese attire, and more are typically available. Of course, if wearing a costume is not your thing, then you always have the option to opt-out.

Step Five: Hitting the Road

It is time to get on the road and explore! Your tour guide will show you the way, bringing you to all the main attractions and most popular hot spots. Just make sure to follow the road rules, pay attention, and stay on the left side of the road.

Step Six: Capturing the Moment

Say cheese! You will be provided the opportunity to stop and take photos. Tour guides will also be taking pictures, which will be available after the tour. Keep in mind that using a mobile device or camera while driving is not permitted in Japan.

Step Seven: Returning to the Starting Point

When the tour is over, most companies return to the starting point. This allows you to return your go-kart, costume, and any other gear you borrowed.

What to Expect

Street go-karting begins with checking in at the designated meeting point and presenting your documents (Japanese driver’s license or International Driving Permit). Once the paperwork is complete, you can expect a safety briefing outlining the traffic laws, tour route, and how to operate a go-kart. Participants will then select, if desired, a fun costume to wear. Once everyone is ready and buckled in, the tour guide will set off leading the group around Tokyo City. The group will pass through various Tokyo neighborhoods, stopping at landmarks for photos before returning to the starting point. This is when participants can take a final group photo and share their experiences.

Go-Kart Specs and Street Kart Vehicles

Reminiscent of F1 race cars, the street go-karts are powerful and larger than the classic go-karts from your childhood. All go-karts are street-legal and equipped with key safety features, such as seat belts, lights, and indicators. The karts are easy to operate, with automatic transmissions, and responsive steering. A strengthened spring system provides stability and reduced vibration on turns, with lanterns installed on the back of the seats adding additional flare.

Additional Options

Riders will have the option to borrow a GoPro body attachment (GoPro not included). Cameras are typically mounted to the driver’s chest, capturing a first-person perspective. Rental costumes are extremely popular and come in a variety of styles and sizes.

Popular Go-Karting Routes in Tokyo

East and West Tokyo are the most popular destinations for go-kart tours. This is due to the many iconic sites, scenery, and suitable roadways.

East Tokyo

On a two-hour tour, participants can expect to go through East Tokyo’s most famous areas, including Tokyo Bay, Akihabara, Ginza, and Asakusa. On a one-hour tour, you can expect to visit Asakusa, Akihabara Uneo Park, Tokyo Skytree, and Kappabashi Kitchen Tools Street.

West Tokyo

Two-hour and 1 ½-hour tours are available for West Tokyo. On a two-hour tour, you can typically expect to see Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Tokyo Station, Tokyo Tower, and the Imperial Palace. On a 1 ½-hour tour, you will typically see Harajuku, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Omotesando, and Shinjuku Kabukicho.

Safety Precautions

All participants will be provided with a safety briefing before starting their go-kart tour. Safety gear, such as helmets, is not typically mandatory. Go-karts are subject to the same traffic laws in Japan as regular vehicles, so keep that in mind. It is important to follow all the safety and road guidelines to avoid penalties and legal issues. Here are a few other points to consider:

Before driving, confirm your headrest, seat, and seat belt are in the right position and secure.
Remember, in Japan, you drive on the left side of the road.
Do not consume alcohol or other substances before the tour.
If you are driving in the summer, drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
Inform the tour guide if you have any health conditions that could affect your driving.

Conclusion

Go-karting in Tokyo is a wild and fun way to experience this bustling metropolis. So get goofy and try go-karting on your next Tokyo vacation.

FAQ

Is there an age restriction to drive the go-kart?

A: Yes, you must be 18 years or older to drive in Japan.

Can two people sit in the go-kart?

A: No, the go-karts can only accommodate one person.

Is it safe to drive in Japan?

A: Yes, it is safe to drive in Japan. Pay attention during the safety briefing and follow the guidelines. If you have any additional questions, ask your tour guide.

What can non-drivers do during this activity?

A: Non-riders have the option to ride for free in the tour’s rear vehicle, allowing them to take photos when stopping at the iconic landmarks. If non-riders would prefer not to tag along, they can always explore the many tourist attractions and hot spots near the starting point of the tour.